• Make an important contribution to the health of children through medical research
• Work with one of Australia’s most respected national and independent medical research institutes
• Located in Westmead, one of Sydney’s and Australia’s major biomedical research hubs
• Salary Range ($67,000 - $75,000) + Super + benefits

Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) was Australia’s first dedicated paediatric research facility and is now one of the nation’s most highly regarded independent medical research centres. CMRI’s research programs are supported by state-of-the-art facilities and committed research and support staff. In a collaborative effort with the University of Sydney and the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network (SCHN), CMRI has built a world-leading gene therapy program, capturing the entire translational journey from idea to therapeutic reality, including clinical viral vector manufacturing facility. Aligned with our efforts in the gene therapy space, CMRI has established Australian first Vector and Genome Engineering Facility (VGEF) dedicated to distribution of viral vectors and gene therapy tools and reagents, and Translational Vectorology Unit (TVU), which specializes in the development of novel recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) and individualised gene therapeutics for the treatment of rare paediatric genetic conditions. Both laboratories benefit from direct leadership of A/Prof. Lisowski, a world expert in vector-based gene therapy. In addition to highly dedicated and motivated researchers, our achievements are made possible by a loyal network of community supporters, highly engaged donors and the very successful Jeans for Genes® fundraising campaign.

Applications are invited for the position of Research Assistant (RA) at the CMRI’s Translational Vectorology Unit (TVU). Up to three (3) positions will be available ranging from RA level 1 to level 3. The successful applicant will be involved in a range of projects the aim of which is to develop novel viral vector and (pre)clinical tools for human gene therapy applications. The successful candidate will utilize wide range of molecular biology and tissue culture tools and techniques, including, but not limited to, maintenance and manipulation of a wide range of mammalian cell types under BSL2/2+ conditions. The successful candidate will also be responsible for performing basic molecular biology QA/QC assays, including but not limited to DNA purification, cloning, PCR and transfection. In addition, the position involves undertaking routine tasks related to the maintenance of the laboratory and preparation of standard operating procedures (SOPs). This appointment is initially for a fixed term of 12 months and continuing tenure is subject to satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

The successful candidate must hold a Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent and have practical experience in general molecular biology and mammalian tissue culture techniques. The candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and attention to details, as well as the ability/will to improve his professional knowledge (e.g. learning new protocols and techniques). Preference will be given to applicants with prior hands-on experience working with viral vectors, practical knowledge of tissue culture sterile techniques and experienced with BSL2 lab conditions. Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and Mac operating systems and proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel required. Applications are encouraged from enthusiastic and motivated individuals with excellent technical ability and communication skills.

Successful candidate will be provided with a competitive remuneration package in accordance with qualifications and experience. Additional benefits include the provision of a Public Benevolent Institution salary packaging scheme and participation in an employer-contributed superannuation fund.

Applications should include a cover letter (citing PV2104), curriculum vitae and contact details (phone/email) of three professional referees and be forwarded to recruitment@cmri.org.au

Closing date for applications is 19^th February 2021.