Scientist

Vic Institute of Forensic Medicine; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Health insurance discount via HCF

Myki and V/Line Commuter Club

Novated Leasing

Job summary

Vic Institute of Forensic Medicine in Melbourne is seeking an early-career scientist to support forensic DNA profiling and routine laboratory operations within our accredited Molecular Biology Laboratory. You will help maintain quality systems and contribute to validation of new methods to identify human remains and support justice investigations.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in Science with relevant majors and 1–3 years’ experience in a scientific setting, including DNA extraction and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Science with majors in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or Genetics.
• 1–3 years' experience in a relevant scientific field.
• Experience in DNA extraction methods, particularly genomic DNA extraction from post-mortem and ante-mortem samples.
• Experience performing forensic DNA profiling procedures, particularly RT-PCR and STR genotyping.
• Experience working within a NATA-accredited laboratory environment.
• Strong knowledge of molecular biology techniques, laboratory quality systems and accreditation requirements.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organisational, time management and problem-solving abilities.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory decontamination procedures to minimise DNA contamination risk.
• Conduct routine DNA profiling and specimen reception procedures.
• Prepare laboratory working stocks using contamination minimisation strategies.
• Monitor stock levels and coordinate ordering of laboratory reagents and consumables.
• Coordinate maintenance and functionality checks of laboratory equipment.
• Support laboratory quality assurance and environmental monitoring programs.
• Assist with the review and improvement of laboratory documentation and procedures.
• Contribute to validation and implementation of new methods and technologies.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Molecular Biology Laboratory.
• Build effective relationships with colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders while maintaining professional standards.

Skills

DNA extraction

Forensic DNA profiling (RT-PCR & STR)

Molecular biology techniques

Laboratory quality systems

Communication skills

Time management

Collaboration

Continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Science (Biochemistry/Molecular Biology/Genetics)

1–3 years of experience in a relevant scientific field

Job description

Vic Institute of Forensic Medicine – Melbourne VIC

The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) is a leading organisation at the intersection of science, medicine and justice. We provide independent forensic medical and scientific expertise to support the justice system, deliver crucial evidence that underpins safe convictions and appropriate acquittals, and contribute to public health and community safety through education, and research.

Our work is complex and deeply meaningful. From investigating deaths reported to the Coroner, to supporting victims of crime and enabling life‑changing tissue donation through the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria, VIFM plays a critical role in Victoria's justice and health systems.

What truly sets VIFM apart is our people and our culture. Guided by our values of Respect, Openness, Service, Integrity and Innovation, we foster a workplace where expertise is valued, collaboration is encouraged, and purpose sits at the heart of everything we do.

About the Role

Reporting to the Manager, Molecular Biology, you will contribute to the delivery of forensic scientific services that support medico-legal death investigations. Working within VIFM's accredited Molecular Biology Laboratory, you will play an important role in maintaining laboratory operations, conducting routine DNA profiling activities, and ensuring equipment, consumables and quality systems continue to meet accreditation standards.

This is a unique opportunity to develop your forensic science career while contributing to work that helps identify human remains, supports missing persons investigations and ultimately assists families seeking answers about their loved ones.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory decontamination procedures to minimise DNA contamination risk.
• Conduct routine DNA profiling and specimen reception procedures.
• Prepare laboratory working stocks using contamination minimisation strategies.
• Monitor stock levels and coordinate ordering of laboratory reagents and consumables.
• Coordinate maintenance and functionality checks of laboratory equipment.
• Support laboratory quality assurance and environmental monitoring programs.
• Assist with the review and improvement of laboratory documentation and procedures.
• Contribute to validation and implementation of new methods and technologies.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Molecular Biology Laboratory.
• Build effective relationships with colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders while maintaining professional standards.

About You

You are an early-career scientist who is passionate about applying your molecular biology expertise to work that has real-world impact. Whether your experience has been gained in a forensic environment or a closely related laboratory setting, you are excited by the opportunity to contribute to meaningful outcomes for families, communities and Victoria's justice system.

You enjoy solving problems, improving processes and working collaboratively with others. Organised and detail-oriented, you can effectively manage competing priorities while maintaining a strong commitment to quality and accuracy. You're confident enough to ask questions, share ideas and contribute to continuous improvement, regardless of your level or tenure.

Most importantly, you're someone who brings curiosity, resilience and a can-do attitude to your work. You enjoy being part of a supportive team, value open and respectful communication, and are motivated by the opportunity to learn, grow and build specialist expertise in forensic science.

You Will Bring:

• A Bachelor's degree in Science with majors in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or Genetics.
• Ideally 1-3 years' experience in a relevant scientific field.
• Experience in DNA extraction methods, particularly genomic DNA extraction from post-mortem and ante-mortem samples.
• Experience performing forensic DNA profiling procedures, particularly RT-PCR and STR genotyping.
• Experience working within a NATA-accredited laboratory environment.
• Strong knowledge of molecular biology techniques, laboratory quality systems and accreditation requirements.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organisational, time management and problem-solving abilities.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to continuous improvement

Why Join VIFM?

• At VIFM, you'll be part of a highly respected organisation where your work directly contributes to public safety, justice outcomes and helping families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. You'll gain exposure to a unique forensic environment, build specialist skills, and work alongside passionate experts who are committed to excellence and innovation.
• This is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to build a rewarding career while making a meaningful difference.

What We Offer

Working at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) will give you rewarding experiences and the opportunity to do extraordinary work. You will enjoy:

• An employee assistance program (EAP)
• Discount on health insurance through HCF
• Myki and V/Line Commuter Club
• Novated Leasing

Working at VIFM is more than just a job; it's personal. We are dedicated to making a difference and believe in the strength of our diverse team and vibrant culture. Our commitment extends to our people, customers, and community, operating responsibly and ethically.

Join us to lead, inspire, and shape the future of forensic medicine in a culture that values creativity, embraces new ideas, and fosters inclusivity and collaboration.

Our Recruitment Process

The successful candidate will be required to undergo pre-employment checks which will include reference checks, national police checks, and misconduct screening. Dependent on the role, other checks may include VicRoads checks, drivers license checks, and Declaration of Private Interests (for executive and responsible officer roles).

If you feel comfortable, please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements or require an alternative format to any of the application material upon application, so we can make any adjustments required to support you throughout our recruitment process.