Grade 1 Medical Scientist

At Peter Mac we aim to continuously improve cancer care, research and education across all cancers and for all people affected by cancer: changing lives, breaking new ground. Everything we do is underpinned by our core values, Excellence, Compassion and Innovation. Welcoming people from a wide variety of different backgrounds and experiences is critical to fostering innovation, cultivating compassion, attracting and retaining top talent and providing the best possible cancer care for our patients.

YOUR ROLE IN OUR FUTURE
 

Full Time Fixed Term Role

• 12 Months Fixed Term With Monthly ADO
• Parkville Location
• Salary: $63,674 - $91,785 (annual) + salary packaging + super + 5 weeks annual leave 

About the team

nexomics is a dedicated clinical trial division within the Peter MaCallum Pathology Department. We deliver specialised clinical trial testing for internal stakeholders such as PCCTU and Research teams, under NATA ISO15189 and ISO17025 accreditation. In addition, nexomics provides central lab services for clinical trials for commercial sponsors, CROs and biopharma companies globally.

About the role

To provide molecular testing in molecular haematology by use of various techniques including real-time PCR, HRM, fragment analysis and DNA sequencing including next generation sequencing.

This role would suit a candidate that enjoys working in a dynamic environment, can effectively communicate with their co-workers to ensure that all testing is completed within appropriate time frames and has the ability to manage and prioritise multiple tasks.  We provide testing for a number of global clinical trials so strong written and verbal communication skills are essential when liaising with our sponsors.

This role will contribute to the University of Melbourne's partnership with international genomics company Illumina by collaborating with The Advanced Genomics Collaboration by jointly fostering the development of world-leading genomics research and innovation activities and to accelerate the translation of these innovation through to adoption in the healthcare system

Victorian Department of Health has endorsed the initiative to restructure existing public pathology by bringing together laboratories into pathology networks operating under a lead health service. Pathology services from the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, the Royal Women's Hospital and the Royal Children's Hospital will transition to a single pathology service.  This creates an exciting opportunity to strengthen the scope, scale and reach of pathology services across the Parkville precinct to benefit all Victorians.
This role will transition to the new lead health service for pathology services once determined. 

A regular day will see you:

• Perform molecular testing for clinical trial samples
• Support the development and validation of new molecular assays
• Perform equipment maintenance and general lab duties
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders

About you

We are seeking a candidate who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, communicates effectively with both colleagues and external clients, and demonstrates the ability to manage and prioritise multiple tasks with confidence and efficiency.

You'll bring with you:

BSc or equivalent in a relevant area of Genetics or Molecular Biology
Minimum 1 year of experience as a Medical Scientist in molecular pathology or genetics laboratory
Minimum 1 year of experience in a research laboratory or diagnositc and/or clinical trial testing
Strong customer service skills and able to communicate professionally
Demonstrate strong organisational skills, attention to details and a team player
Our benefits

On offer is a range of rewarding benefits, including:

• Up to $11,660 in salary packaging to increase your take home pay
• Discounted health insurance and eye care
• A comprehensive health and wellbeing program
• Public transport options at our doorstep and end of journey facilities for cyclists
• Onsite eateries and coffee shops and inviting rooftop garden spaces
• Pathways for professional development and new career opportunities
• Five weeks annual leave (pro-rata for part time) and 17.5% leave loading
• Inclusion and belonging

Peter Mac celebrates, values and supports a diverse and inclusive environment which reflects our vibrant community.  We encourage applications from anyone identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.  We also welcome anyone who identifies as LGBTQIA+, linguistically, culturally and/or gender diverse, people with disability, and people of any age to apply for our roles.

Join us

Applicants to this role should provide a covering letter outlining relative key skills and experience to assist us with our assessment.

For further information about this opportunity, click Apply to be redirected to the Peter Mac Careers page where you can review the position summary.

Alternatively, please contact us using the information below for a confidential discussion.

Hiring Manager: Mariam Mohd Fadzil
Contact Number:
Email:

Applications Close:11:59PM 14 October 2025
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Position Summary

 To provide molecular testing in molecular haematology by use of various techniques including real-time PCR, HRM, fragment analysis and DNA sequencing including next generation sequencing.

This role would suit a candidate that enjoys working in a dynamic environment, can effectively communicate with their co-workers to ensure that all testing is completed within appropriate time frames and has the ability to manage and prioritise multiple tasks.  We provide testing for a number of global clinical trials so strong written and verbal communication skills are essential when liaising with our sponsors.

This role will contribute to the University of Melbourne's partnership with international genomics company Illumina by collaborating with The Advanced Genomics Collaboration by jointly fostering the development of world-leading genomics research and innovation activities and to accelerate the translation of these innovation through to adoption in the healthcare system

Enterprise Agreement

MEDICAL SCIENTISTS, PHARMACISTS AND PSYCHOLOGISTS VICTORIAN PUBLIC SECTOR (SINGLE INTEREST EMPLOYERS) ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT

Classification or Salary Range

Grade 1 (RX1 – RX7)

Immunisation Risk Category

Category A: Position involving direct patient contact, potential exposure to blood, body fluid, human tissue specimens during the course of a normal working day

Key Relationships

Internal 

Senior Clinical Trial Scientists (nexomics)

Clinical trial staff (nexomics)

Anatomical Pathologists

Quality nominees

Pathology staff within Molecular, AP, CSR, Admin, Haematology, Core lab etc.

Clinical Trial Coordinator/Administrator

Business Development team

External

External clinicians and clients

Sponsors, CROs and suppliers

Education
Skills

Essential requirements   

BSc or equivalent in a relevant area of Genetics or Molecular Biology 

Experience as a Medical Scientist in an accredited Diagnostic Molecular Pathology/Genetics laboratory 

Experience with at least two of PCR, real-time PCR, fragment analysis, HRM and automated DNA sequencing, including next generation sequencing. 

Experience in a research laboratory or diagnostic and/or clinical trial testing.

Demonstrable abilities to work effectively within a team.

Works well under pressure and enjoys diverse portfolio of duties as required by the clinical trial portfolio.

Demonstrable abilities to multitask and effectively improve processes.

Attention to detail.

Ability to communicate effectively and promptly utilising electronic and other means.

Proven ability to work cooperatively with pathologists, clinicians, other senior scientists and researchers

Desirable requirements

Experience in clinical data interpretation for real time PCR, HRM analysis and automated DNA sequencing 

Knowledge of automation as applied to nucleic acid based testing including PCR and sequencing. 

Knowledge of emerging technologies for genome based analysis in both germline and somatic situations 

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations
Key Accountabilities

1.Testing for mutations in molecular haematology samples

Providing molecular testing in the area of molecular haematology by use of various techniques including real time PCR, HRM, fragment analysis and DNA sequencing, Perform DNA and RNA extraction as required

Smooth and efficient operation of daily workflow, including specimen receipt, tracking, test performance and reporting as required for the laboratory

Demonstrates an understanding of customer service for internal and external customers and is committed to effectively meeting their needs in a helpful and professional manner.

and adheres to key performance indicators 

Ensures all documentation is completed including procedures, maintenance records and quality assurance procedures according to laboratory, NATA ISO15189 standards and protocols

2.Maintenance and operation of equipment

All equipment is operated and maintained in accordance with laboratory manuals and procedures

Ensures the maintenance records of laboratory equipment are kept according to laboratory protocols.

3.Performs general laboratory duties    

General laboratory duties (eg reagent preparation, waste disposal, laboratory tidiness) performed as required and on request from senior scientists 

Administrative duties as required and on request from senior scientists

4.Work practices are in accordance the laboratory quality systems and procedures

Ensures that work practices are in accordance the laboratory quality systems and procedures at all times 

Ensures that laboratory documentation is up to date at times

Works cooperatively with the Quality Manager

Is familiar with the internal and external quality control activities within the laboratory and complies with the relevant QC protocols

Liaises well with other staff members to ensure that all molecular pathology testing adheres to the relevant protocols

Key Accountabilities (Contd..)

5.Recognizes and reports any clinicallysignificant results to the appropriate staff member and any laboratory problems to senior scientific staff

Seeks the advice of the senior scientific staff to solve a scientific and technical problems in the laboratory

6.Quality Assurance

Participates where appropriate in internal and external QA programs

Promptly reports procedural breakdowns, errors and incidents by means of the non-conformance reporting system

Participates in educational activities including attendance at internal and external training courses, clinical and scientific meetings

Maintains and develops own specialised skills

Embraces skill extension, innovation and change

Participate in any audits, site qualification visits and monitoring visits as required

7.Helps maintain external client base

Communication with clinical staff and external clients as appropriate 

Cooperates with and assists external clients

8.Works as part of a team        

Communicates and cooperates with co-workers to ensure work is completed within appropriate timeframes

9.Conduct is ethical

Acts in accordance with Institute ethical guidelines and those established by relevant bodies eg NHMRC

Patient confidentiality and privacy is protected

10.Occupation Health and Safety

Adheres to the maintenance of safe working practices and the provision of a safe working environment (as outlined in the OHS legislative and regulations)

11.Follows appropriate policies and procedures

Adheres to the maintenance of safe working practices and the provision of a safe working environment (as outlined in the OHS legislative and regulations)

Acts in accordance with Peter Mac Policies

Acts in accordance with the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists(AIMS) professional code of conduct

Undergoes performance appraisals in accordance with Peter Mac guidelines

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For further information about this opportunity, click Apply to be redirected to the Peter Mac Careers page where you can review the position profile. Alternatively, please contact us for a confidential discussion.

Peter Mac is a child safe organisation and has a commitment to child safety and wellbeing.

WHY WORK FOR PETER MAC

• Peter Mac offer a range of benefits which support our people both personally and professionally.
• Our staff benefits include award winning facilities, professional development and events, a health and wellbeing program, flexible work practices and policies and financial benefits such as salary packaging.
• We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, all members of the LGBTQI community and people with a disability.

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