Research Officer (Peakall)

Times Higher Education; Australia; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 105,000; Part time

Job summary

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY (ANU) invites applications for a part-time Research Officer to support the biological research team. The role focuses on DNA/RNA work, library preparation for sequencing, and data analysis across plant samples.

The candidate will assist in experimental design, data collection and collaborative projects. Flexibility is offered with arrangements and the appointment is fixed-term until June 2029.

Qualifications

• Degree in biology or a related field is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in plant DNA/RNA extraction and PCR is required.
• Willingness to learn basic bioinformatics and operate sequencing platforms.

Responsibilities

• Perform high quality DNA/RNA extractions from plant tissues.
• Prepare DNA/RNA libraries for sequencing (ONT and other platforms).
• Process and analyze sequence data; support marker development and field sampling as needed.
• Assist in procurement, equipment maintenance and general lab duties.

Skills

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR and library prep

ONT sequencing

Bioinformatics basics

Excel

R

Geneious

Galaxy

Education

Degree in biology or related field

Tools

Geneious

Galaxy

R

Job description

Organisation/Company AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY (ANU) Research Field Biological sciences Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) First Stage Researcher (R1) Application Deadline 8 Nov 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Country Australia Type of Contract Other Job Status Part-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Classification: ANU Officer 5/6

Salary package: $89,760 - $105,459 per annum plus 17% superannuation

Terms: Part-time up to 17.5 hours per week, 0.5 FTE

(flexible arrangements, will be considered)

This position is fixed term, part time. The funding that supports this project has an expected end date of June 2029.

Position Description and Selection Criteria: PD&PEWER_ANUO56_Research Officer.pdf

In 1946, ANU was founded to help rebuild a changing world. We’re still at it, 80 years later. For generations, our people have turned curiosity into ideas that have shaped Australia and our region. Learn more about ANU, our history and the community that has shaped us: ANU at 80

The Position

The Research Officer will provide support to our research team. Key responsibilities will include performing high quality DNA/RNA extractions from a range of plant tissues, undertaking complex library preparation for DNA/RNA sequencing on ONT and other platforms, participation in DNA/RNA sequence data processing and analysis.

The Research officer may also be required to assist with the sampling, design and testing of diagnostic molecular markers for endangered plant species ID and survey. This may involve fieldwork and related activities. They will also support project delivery, assist in the preparation and ordering of supplies, and provide routine laboratory maintenance and general administrative support.

The Person

The ideal candidate will have completed a degree, or have relevant research experience. Demonstrated experience in plant DNA/RNA extraction, PCR and library preparation for sequencing is required. Prior experience with ONT and/or other sequencing platforms and willingness to learn basic bioinformatic skills, will be regarded positively. They should possess knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods, with experience in experimental design, data collection, and data analysis being advantageous. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, along with proven organizational abilities, are essential for managing competing tasks and working both independently and in teams. Proficiency in MSOffice, especially Excel, is required, and experience with statistical software (e.g. R) and DNA sequence analysis software (e.g. Geneious, Galaxy etc.) will be highly regarded.

The School

The Research School of Biology (RSB) carries out research and teaching in a wide range of biological and biomedical sciences, and is housed in multiple buildings on the University’s Acton Campus.

The College

The ANU College of Science and Medicine encompasses the disciplines of: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environment and Society, Physics, and Science Communication and is also home to a number of cross-disciplinary and specialist Institutes and Centres. Staff and students within the ANU College of Science and Medicine conduct research and deliver a research-led education program that encompasses the breadth of the sciences, supported by extensive international networks and by world‑class facilities.

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For further information please contact Rod Peakall on T: [phone] E: [e-mail] (email preferred).

The University actively encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For more information on employment opportunities, contact our Indigenous Employment Consultant on [e-mail]

ANU values diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to people of all backgrounds and identities. For more information about staff equity at ANU, click here . For enquiries about the application process, or if you require reasonable adjustment to apply for this role, please contact the hiring manager on the above listed details.

Contact

City Canberra, ACT, Australian Capital Territory, Australia