Genomics Staff Scientist

Summary

Full-Time, 2 Year Contract

The South Australian Genomics Centre (SAGC) is a multi-institutional, national genomics and bioinformatics facility that is supported by Bioplatforms Australia (BPA), The Government of South Australia and our partner institutes and universities through the Australian Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). The SAGC has consolidated genomics and bioinformatics expertise in the state, with a group of more than 12 genomics and bioinformatics staff working side-by-side to deliver innovative genomics and bioinformatics solutions across all areas of genomics research, including agriculture, healthcare and ecology. The SAGC is headquartered in the iconic South Australian Health and Medical Research (SAHMRI) building in the Adelaide CBD.

An exciting opportunity now exists for a Genomics Staff Scientist focused on the single cell genomics and spatial transcriptomics fields to join the SAGC team.

The facility has been pioneering in the spatial transcriptomics and single-cell genomics fields since its inception. The SAGC is the only genomics facility in Australia to offer the ultra-high throughput MGI T7 sequencing service, which enables the only spatial transcriptomics method that achieves both centimetre-level panoramic field of view and nanoscale resolution. The SAGC is also one of only three 10x Genomics reference sites in Australia and is equipped with the complete tool set to carry out spatial transcriptomics and single-cell genomics projects utilising its leading technologies.

To flourish in this role, you will need to be able to work across multiple different projects and to possess excellent organisational and time-management skills. In addition, in-depth knowledge of current genomics technologies and a collaborative mindset will be key to be successful in this role. Your career progression will be supported and you will be encouraged to participate conferences and seminars to keep up with the up-to-date technologies.

About the role

Key responsibilities include:

- Implementing and developing novel spatial and single cell genomics workflows within the facility.
- Working closely with other external research groups to carry out complex experiments in areas such as single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics and related technologies.
- Working as part of a wider team.
- Playing an active role in the design and execution of complex experimental methods for users.
- Liaising with SAGC’s team of genomics and bioinformatics staff to improve and develop processes to enhance SAGC’s services.
- Maintaining accurate written records of all experiments undertaken, following the SAGC Platform Quality Management System (PQMS).
- Participating in the day-to-day running of the facility including ordering laboratory supplies, generating standard operating procedures (in liaison with the PQMS Manager), and maintaining safe laboratory practices through work health and safety measures.

About You

Essential Criteria
- Doctoral degree in a relevant area (e.g. Biomedical, environmental or agricultural genomics disciplines) or equivalent experience.
- A minimum of 3 years’ professional experience working in a genomics-related field.
- Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques including handling of nucleic acids and high standard of laboratory skills.
- Hands-on experience in handling various types of tissue sectioning, such as fresh-frozen and FFPE.
- Have a broad understanding and hands-on experience in at least two of the following areas:

- Sample Receipt: documenting, handling and storage for DNA/RNA samples.
- Sample QC: sample quantification and qualification.
- Library generation: library generation with various sample types (e.g. bulk RNA, whole-genome DNA, amplicon, single cell, tissue sections).
- Library preparation: pooling, denaturation and loading flowcells before sequencing.
- Sequencing: platforms operation and maintenance such as Illumina Nextseq, Illumina Miseq, MGI-G400, MGI-T7, Chromium Controller.
- Extensive knowledge and experience implementing novel workflows in a laboratory setting, particularly in the spatial transcriptomics and single-cell genomics fields.
- Effective interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to network and liaise with stakeholders and staff.

Desirable Criteria
- Prior hands-on experience in cell processing and microscopy
- Prior working experience in NATA-accredited laboratories

As a not-for-profit organisation, SAHMRI employees can access salary packaging options up to $15,900. Salary packaging lets you pay for things like the everyday costs of living with money from your salary before tax. This reduces your taxable income, meaning you could pay less tax and take home more of what you earn. For more information on salary packaging please see the Maxxia website.

For a copy of the position description, please click here.

Applications close: 11:29pm ACST Friday 22nd December