SBA Light/Optical Specialist

• 3 year full-time, fixed term position

• Lead the development of cutting-edge imaging capabilities ahead of the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator (SBA) building launch

• Base Salary $126,065 - $142, % superannuation

About the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator

The Sydney Biomedical Accelerator (SBA) is a world-class initiative that brings together researchers, clinicians, and industry partners to drive innovation in biomedical science. Designed to accelerate discoveries from bench to bedside, the SBA will house state-of-the-art facilities and technologies that support interdisciplinary collaboration and translational research. This role is critical to ensuring the SBA is equipped to deliver on its ambitious vision from day one.

About the opportunity

As the SBA Light/Optical Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in establishing advanced light microscopy systems and ensuring the facility is technically prepared to support high-end research. You'll collaborate with vendors, researchers and facility teams to translate scientific needs into operational systems, avoiding costly delays and enabling world-class imaging capabilities.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• work within a dynamic team, reporting to the Facility Manager, SMM

• oversee and support new instrument purchases, installation, and room design

• plan strategically with researchers for future technology needs, especially for SBA

• develop and implement advanced light microscopy techniques and protocols

• liaise and negotiate with suppliers on procurement, upgrades and troubleshooting

• foster collaboration across SMM, faculties, and Microscopy Australia

• identify and document challenges in microscopy implementation and data analysis

• manage solutions to complex scientific problems and translate them into facility offerings

• promote a safe working environment and ensure compliance with WHS requirements.

About you

• postgraduate qualifications and equivalent experience in science, life sciences or a related field

• specialist knowledge in high-end light microscopy and data analysis

• experience in managing multi-user research facilities and equipment

• ability to translate research into practice and apply implementation science

• strong communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills

• understanding of WHS standards and regulations.

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to be eligible to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are  and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold employer. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.
For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your  account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Kale Claffey Recruitment Operations by email to 

The University of Sydney
The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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