Pathogen Genomics Scientist

The University of Melbourne would like to acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Owners of the lands upon which our campuses are situated, the Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung Peoples, the Yorta Yorta Nation, the Dja Dja Wurrung People. We acknowledge that the land on which we meet and learn was the place of age-old ceremonies, of celebration, initiation and renewal, and that the local Aboriginal Peoples have had and continue to have a unique role in the life of these lands.

About the Department and Microbiological Diagnostic Unit
The Department of Microbiology & Immunology is one of the departments within the School of Biomedical Sciences in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences. Further information is available at www.microbiol.unimelb.edu.au and .

The Microbiological Diagnostic Unit (MDU PHL) is a public health laboratory for the Department of Health, Victoria and has been established for over 100 years on External State Government funding. The MDU PHL is concerned with provision of services for the laboratory diagnosis of diseases of public health importance, the application of typing methods, the use of computer-based data collection systems for epidemiological purposes, and provision of expert opinion.

About the Role
The Pathogen Genomics Scientist is responsible for the high throughput sequencing platform used for pathogens of public health interest. This position is seen as a subject matter expert in the field of genomics and includes responsibility overseeing the timely processing of samples through an accredited, next-generation sequencing and PCR service within MDU. Reporting to the Section Leader and their deputy, you will assist with validation and implementation of new methods and contribute to troubleshooting sequencing workflows.

Responsibilities include:

• Provide valid interpretations of test results, after checking calculations, identifying trends and drifts of internal quality control and data presentation including compliance with relevant standards
• Apply theoretical principles and techniques to solve problems in consultation with the Section Leader, other senior staff and provide possible solutions and remedies for test failures
• Deployment of new methods to support public health pathogen genomics
• Management of the maintenance and repair of equipment, reagent inventory and ordering

About You
You have a highly collaborative approach to your work and can demonstrate an ability to work under direction and within a team. You have excellent attention to detail and organisational skills that can be applied to the professional, timely and accurate completion of sample testing, as well as high-level problem-solving skills.

You will also have:

• A Masters or PhD degree in relevant area e.g. genomics, molecular biology
• Demonstrated experience in large-scale generation of sequencing data using Illumina sequencing methodology
• Demonstrated ability to initiate, consult, develop and implement effective workplace practices and processes and convey complex information to stakeholders
• An understanding of the Public Health context in which laboratory testing occurs

To ensure the University continues to provide a safe environment for everyone, this position requires the incumbent to hold a current and valid Working with Children Check.

About the University
The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked amongst the leading universities in the world. We are proud of our people, our commitment to research and teaching excellence, and our global engagement.

Benefits of Working with Us
In addition to having the opportunity to grow and be challenged, and to be part of a vibrant campus life, our people enjoy a range of rewarding benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements, generous personal, parental and cultural leave
• Competitive remuneration, 17% super, salary packaging and leave loading
• Free and subsidised health and wellbeing services, and access to fitness and cultural clubs
• Discounts on a wide range of products and services including Myki cards and Qantas Club
• Career development opportunities and 25% off graduate courses for staff and their immediate families

To find out more, visit .

Be Yourself
We value the unique backgrounds, experiences and contributions that each person brings to our community and encourage and celebrate diversity. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, females, people of all ages, with disabilities and culturally and linguistically diverse people are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

Join Us!
If you feel this role is right for you, please submit your application including a brief cover letter, your resume and your responses against the selection criteria^ (found in the Position Description) for the role.

^For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to

We are dedicated to ensuring barrier free and inclusive practices to recruit the most talented candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments with the recruitment process, please contact us at .

Advertised: 25 Nov 2022 12:05 AM AUS Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: 18 Dec 2022 11:55 PM AUS Eastern Daylight Time