Diagnostic Scientist

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute Limited; Adelaide; Hybrid; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary packaging

Job summary

SAHMRI—South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute—invites applications for a Diagnostic Scientist within the PIRL at Gilles Plains. You will deliver diagnostic screening for murine pathogens using PCR/RT-PCR and serological assays, while developing new molecular tests in collaboration with partners.

The role involves contributing to pathology work, necropsy, and sample collection, plus assisting in quality management and test development projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (Medical Laboratory Science) or equivalent is required.
• Experience in a diagnostic laboratory setting is preferred.
• Knowledge and experience with PCR and RT-PCR techniques.
• Knowledge and experience in serological techniques.
• Knowledge of basic microbiological techniques.
• Knowledge of laboratory practices and documentation.
• Ability to coordinate workload and train new staff as required.
• Understanding of work safety and quality management practices.
• Meticulous and methodical approach; strong attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills; computer literacy.
• Ability to handle laboratory animals is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide cost-effective, timely and accurate diagnostic screening for murine pathogens using PCR, RT-PCR, EIA, and IFA assays.
• Contribute to Molecular Diagnostics and Serology activities by managing workloads and liaising with clients.
• Perform necropsy, tissue and sample collection as required to support pathology.
• Contribute to Test Development Programme to expand test range and efficiency.
• Become familiar with bacteriological techniques for organism identification.
• Support QA programs and audits as required by Quality Representative.
• Stay updated on developments in animal research and diagnostics.

Skills

PCR techniques

RT-PCR techniques

Bacteriology techniques

Laboratory QA practices

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor of Science (Medical Laboratory Science) or equivalent

Tools

PCR equipment

Bacteriology supplies

Job description

• Employment type: FTC - Full-time Contract
• Applications close: Wednesday, 21 Oct 2026

Part-Time (0.6-0.8 FTE) may also be considered

At the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), we are committed to achieving innovative, ground-breaking health and medical research that fundamentally improves the quality of life for all people.

An exciting opportunity is now available for a Diagnostic Scientist to join the SAHMRI Preclinical Imaging and Research Laboratories (PIRL) located at Gilles Plains. This position will provide high quality, cost effective screening and diagnostic services for the detection of murine pathogens in research animal tissue and other biological materials submitted for analysis. The role is also responsible for the development and validation of new molecular diagnostic tests in collaboration with other parties, performing routine bacteriology and sample collection on live animal submissions, coordinating the pathology laboratory housekeeping, participating in quality management activities, and providing general support to the Laboratory Manager, ComPath.

About the role

Key responsibilities include:

• Provide cost effective, timely and accurate diagnostic screening service for the detection of murine pathogens in cell cultures and other biological specimens by conducting a range of PCR, RT-PCR, EIA & IFA assays.
• Contribute to all activities of the Molecular Diagnostics and Serology sections of ComPath including managing workloads, liaising with clients and other groups, and maintaining adequate stocks of reagents and consumables required by the section.
• Contribute to the activities of the Pathology laboratory by performing necropsy, tissue and sample collection as required
• Contribute to the scientific and technical requirements of a Test Development Programme aimed at increasing the range and efficiency of tests offered by the section. This work will be conducted in collaboration with other groups.
• Become familiar with bacteriological techniques for organism identification and be able to perform such procedures.
• Contribute to the successful completion of research programs undertaken by the section by conducting assays and adhering to research protocols and associated standard operating procedures.
• Support the activities of the Quality Representative by conducting audits, spot checks, coordination of QA programs and other activities as required.
• Keep abreast of current developments in relevant animal research and diagnostics.

About You

The successful candidate will possess the following key attributes:

• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science) or equivalent.
• Experience in a diagnostic laboratory setting
• Knowledge and some experience of PCR and RT-PCR techniques
• Knowledge and some experience in serological techniques
• Knowledge and some experience in basic microbiological techniques
• Knowledge of laboratory practices and documentation
• Able to work under minimal supervision to agreed standards and guidelines
• Able to coordinate workload and undertake training of new staff as required
• Understanding of Work Safety and quality management practices and procedures
• Meticulous and methodical
• Excellent interpersonal skills; written and verbal communication skills and computer literacy
• Able to handle laboratory animals and aware of issues relating to the use of animals in research is desirable

Special Requirements

• Some out of hours work may be required.
• DCSI Employment Screening and Police Checks may be required.
• This position may require a pre-employment medical examination to determine suitability for the physical requirements of the role.

As a not-for-profit organisation, SAHMRI employees can access salary packaging options up to $15,900. Salary packaging lets you pay for things like the everyday costs of living with money from your salary before tax. This reduces your taxable income, meaning you could pay less tax and take home more of what you earn. For more information on salary packaging please see the Maxxia website .

Applications may close earlier than advertised if a suitable candidate is found prior to the close date.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply

Applications close Wednesday, 21 Oct 2026

At SAHMRI, we live our commitment to equity and diversity every day: respecting people as individuals and valuing differences to create a working environment that is fair and flexible, promotes personal and professional growth and benefits from the capabilities of a diverse workforce.

SAHMRI is located on Kaurna Country. We pay respects to the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to embracing knowledge and culture as we continue our working journey to incorporate Aboriginal health research across all of our themes and further reconciliation.

(Learning and knowledge are the pathway to alter the mind)