Assistant, Research, Deep Sea Molecular Ecology

About Us

Minderoo Foundation takes on tough, persistent issues with the potential to drive massive change. We incubate ideas, advocate for systems change and accelerate impact. We push the limits of what is believed possible.

Minderoo Foundation is proudly Australian, independent, forward thinking and seeks effective, scalable solutions. Through bold, collaborative, and selfless action, we seek to dismantle the systems that entrench inequality and advocate for a fairer future. 

Minderoo’s OceansFocus Area’s aim is to return the ocean to a healthy state, free from pollution and safeguarded for future generations. Our work will focus primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, but we may also look at neighbouring regions (e.g. Eastern Pacific Ocean and Southern Ocean).

Alongside our peers and partners, we will advocate to scale promising practices and enact systems and policy change with a focus on:

•               Sustainable ocean economies

•               Protecting and restoring ocean ecosystems

•               Stopping plastic pollution

About the Opportunity

This is a two year fixed term contract opportunity to join our OceanOmics team. OceanOmics aims to revolutionise how we measure, understand and conserve life in our oceans by realising the power of marine genomics and environmental DNA (eDNA).

OceanOmics is responsible for providing field and laboratory support for deep-sea related research activities. The role involves assisting in the planning and mobilization of research voyages and field activities, as well as managing the deployment and maintenance of instruments and equipment for at-sea operations, including containerised laboratories.

You will support eDNA and genomic laboratory operations, and be involved in all steps from sample collection to the production of genomic sequencing data.

Responsibilities include:

• Process and analyse eDNA and genomic samples, complying with standard operating procedures, and laboratory health and safety guidelines.
• Participate in research voyages to collect and process deep-sea eDNA samples, as required. 
• Assist in the calibration, operation, and maintenance of sampling devices for deep-sea applications.
• Document and forward plan to expedite technology and knowledge transfer, revising manuals, SOPs and SWPs.

About You

We are looking for a dynamic team player who can think on their feet and is eager to grow their research experience within a high-paced, dynamic and time critical work environment.

To be successful in this role, you will have demonstrated experience in the following:

• Demonstrable experience in a similar role and/or working in research and laboratory environments.
• Ability to work independently and have strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-starter with a high level of initiative and a strong sense of ownership and urgency.
• A tertiary qualification relevant to marine biology or genetics, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education/training.
• Experience working at sea would be highly regarded.

Next Steps

Please attach your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this opportunity, and highlighting your relevant experience.

Applications close: Friday 1st March 2024

Please note we reserve the right to close applications early should a suitable candidate be identified.

Minderoo Foundation uses a hybrid work model. Minderoo Foundation embraces Equal Opportunity and promotes diversity. We actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply.