Genomics Research Assistant

NSW Health; Sydney; On-site; AUD 71,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

NSW Health at Westmead Hospital is offering a temporary full-time position within the Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology – Public Health. You will support translational research applying microbial genomics to real-world infectious disease challenges.

You will work with researchers, clinicians and lab professionals, gaining exposure to clinical specimens, molecular workflows and quality control.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in molecular biology or microbiology, including laboratory experience (clinical sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR or sequencing).
• Ability to work in a team environment whilst delivering results within specified time frames.
• Time management and prioritising competing tasks.
• Strong written and oral communication, with diverse stakeholder groups.
• Proficient computer and data entry skills.

Responsibilities

• Support pathogen genomics and laboratory testing, including clinical specimen handling, preparation, storage, processing and disposal.
• Maintain accurate research and laboratory records, complete data entry, manage reagents and contribute to stock control and ordering.
• Monitor quality control results, investigate issues and contribute to accuracy and validation of laboratory testing.
• Liaise with patients, customers, researchers, clinicians and partners to support service delivery.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and contribute to research meetings and continuous improvement.

Skills

Molecular biology

Microbiology

Laboratory experience

Data entry

MS Office

Tools

MS Office

Job description

• Apply genomics to real-world infectious diseases research
• Join a leading public health microbiology reference centre
• Make an impact across research, diagnostics and diverse communities

Build your genomics experience and contribute to translational research that improves infectious disease testing and public health outcomes.

Employment Type:

Temporary Full Time (up to 12 months)
Position Classification: Technical Officer Grade 1 / Grade 2
Remuneration: $35.97 - $51.82 per hour
Hours Per Week: 38
Location: Westmead Hospital

Where you'll be working

Based at Westmead Hospital, you'll join the Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology – Public Health, a major public health microbiology reference centre affiliated with the Sydney Medical School and Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute at the University of Sydney.

You'll work within a growing, collaborative and multidisciplinary environment where laboratory science, clinical practice and research come together to address important public health challenges.

• Contribute to a grant-funded initiative delivering pathogen genomics services to culturally and linguistically diverse communities across Western Sydney.
• Work alongside researchers, microbiologists, clinicians and laboratory professionals in an applied research setting.
• Gain exposure to microbial genomics, molecular laboratory workflows, clinical specimens and translational research.
• Build relationships with research partners and a diverse range of clinical and community stakeholders.
• Be part of a team committed to scientific excellence, quality, innovation and better health outcomes.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll support the delivery of community-based translational research, applying microbial genomic testing and laboratory science to real-world infectious disease challenges.

• Support pathogen genomics and laboratory testing, including clinical specimen handling, preparation, storage, processing and disposal.
• Maintain accurate research and laboratory records, complete data entry, manage reagents and contribute to stock control and ordering.
• Monitor quality control results, investigate issues and contribute to the accuracy, reliability and validation of laboratory testing.
• Liaise confidently with patients, customers, researchers, clinicians, medical practitioners and research partners to support responsive service delivery.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, troubleshoot issues and contribute to research meetings, scientific discussions and continuous improvement.

Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the area of molecular biology or microbiology, including laboratory experience (e.g. clinical sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR or sequencing) and experience collecting and/or handling clinical specimens.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment whilst working autonomously to deliver results within specified time frames set to meet customers’ expectations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage time and competing priorities.
• High level oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills, including ability to communicate effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds.
• Proven computer and digital literacy, including proficiency in MS Office and data entry skills.

Requisition ID:

REQ696421

Applications Close:

29 September 2026

People with disabilities who meet the selection criteria are encouraged to apply; and where required, WSLHD will implement reasonable adjustment consistent with industry standard.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply. Stepping Up aims to assist Aboriginal job applicants by providing information about applying for roles in NSW Health organisations. For more information, please visit https://www.steppingup.health.nsw.gov.au/

Westmead Hospital car parking allocation model is changing. There is a waitlist for parking for new staff commencing at Westmead Hospital. This does not apply for staff with disability.

Please note: In accordance with NSW Health policy, priority will be given to Australian citizens and permanent residents. A person who is not an Australian citizen or permanent resident is only eligible for temporary employment for a period not longer than the duration of their current visa or the advertised position.