Senior Scientist

Identilab is a NATA-accredited DNA testing facility in Brisbane specialising in parentage, kinship, and identification. Our clients come from all walks of life and require our services for varied reasons - establishing genetic relationships for legal purposes, such as in Family Law disputes or changing a birth certificate, for visa or citizenship applications through the Department of Home Affairs, or simply for peace-of-mind. 

We are currently seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to join our close-knit team and lead our laboratory into the future. To be successful in this role you must have 5+ years experience in a similar role within a regulated laboratory setting. You need to bring a great attitude, a very strong eye for detail, and an eagerness to learn new things. You must also be able to communicate clearly, and in a friendly and empathetic manner. 

Responsibilities of the Role:

• use specialist software to read and interpret results of DNA profiles and conduct parentage and kinship analyses
• prepare clients reports
• review work of other scientists prior to result release
• provide expert testimony in court, if required
• run the day-to-day operations of the laboratory
• plan and oversee organisational change, such as the implementation of new techniques and product offerings
• assist in setting and reviewing budgets and managing costs
• manage the recruitment of staff and identify training needs
• grow the efficiency of existing processes and procedures to enhance and sustain the organisation’s internal capacity
• maintain constant communication with management, staff, and vendors to ensure proper operations of the organisation
• review and maintain the Quality Management System
• monitor facility practices to ensure continuing compliance with policies and procedures
• maintain instrument calibration and maintenance records
• oversee the investigation of technical problems, propose remedial actions and verify their implementation
• administer proficiency testing and evaluation of results
• schedule and coordinate internal and external audits
• propose corrections and improvements to the management system
• lead, motivate, and support a small team within a time-sensitive environment
• maintain contemporary knowledge of scientific developments relevant to human identification sciences
• support, train, and supervise the work of less experienced scientists and staff
• adhere to the requirements of the relevant workplace regulations and laws pertaining to safety and equal opportunity
• contribute to initiatives to ensure continual improvement of a high-quality and timely DNA testing service

To be considered for the role, you must have:

• Bachelor's degree in science, forensic science, or applied science
• 5+ years’ experience in forensic or genetic testing
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 (or similar)
• A resilient work ethic, demonstrating initiative and adaptability
• The ability to develop positive relationships with a diverse range of people through strong communication and interpersonal skills, and by being professional, warm, and compassionate
• The ability to work both autonomously and collaboratively with a small team dedicated to delivering excellent customer service
• Strong organisational skills with high-level accuracy and attention to detail
• Accountability for decision-making, with the ability to adapt to different situations with ease and calm
• Keen problem-solving and methodological thinking skills
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid visa with permission to work

Ideally, you will also have:

• Recent hands-on experience using laboratory equipment relevant to PCR and fragment analysis of STRs
• Experience with massively parallel sequencing (MPS)

If this sounds like you, we'd love to chat! Please apply online and provide your CV and a brief introduction (1-2 pages) outlining how your experience, abilities, knowledge, and personal qualities enable you to meet the responsibilities of the role.

Questions about the position should be directed to ****@identilab.com.au.

Applications close Friday 8th of March.

Please do not contact us by telephone. Our staff are busy, and answering employment inquiries will take them away from their core tasks.