Scientist - RNA Institute

University of New South Wales; Sydney; On-site; AUD 92,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

UNSW RNA Institute seeks a Scientist I/II to conduct RNA production and development within quality systems. You will design, execute, and optimize RNA processes, liaise with internal/external partners, and contribute to training and instrument maintenance.

Degree in molecular biology/biochemis try required; experience with pDNA/mRNA techniques preferred. The role is full-time, 14-month fixed term, with 17% superannuation.

Qualifications

• Degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related discipline.
• Knowledge of pDNA and mRNA production techniques, downstream processing such as HPLC, FPLC and TFF.
• Knowledge of RNA analytical techniques.
• Experience with troubleshooting a range of specialised instruments.
• Understanding of ISO 9001 and/or GMP quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Conduct R&D and production of RNA and related products within the Institute’s QMS.
• Assist design and execution of development activities to improve RNA production processes.
• Liaise with stakeholders and collaborators, participate in meetings.
• Train new users and maintain instruments used in RNA production.

Skills

pDNA/mRNA production

RNA analytics

Quality Management Systems

instrument troubleshooting

Education

Degree in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry

Tools

HPLC

FPLC

TFF

Job description

At UNSW, we take pride in the broad range and high quality of our teaching programs. Our teaching gains strength and currency from our research activities, strong industry links and our international nature; UNSW has strong regional and...

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

The UNSW RNA Institute is Australia’s leading RNA research institute, bringing together researchers from UNSW Science, Engineering and Medicine, led by Professor Pall Thordarson, with collaborative input from other universities and institutes.

Our mission is to grow and support the NSW RNA Ecosystem:

• Other RNA Therapeutics
• RNA Delivery Systems
• RNA Technologies
• RNA Education
• RNA Research

The Scientist carries out research, development and production of RNA and related products within the UNSW RNA Institute. The role will contribute and apply knowledge in the field of RNA processing to a range of projects conducted within the Institute.

About the role

• Level 5 ($92K - $104k) Level 6 ($108k - $115K) plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 14 months (to December 31, 2027)
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

The role reports to the Senior Scientist – pDNA, mRNA and has no direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

LEVEL 5 –Scientist I

• Conduct research, development, and production of RNA and related products under the Institute’s Quality Management System(s) within agreed timelines as required.
• Assist in the design and execution of research and development activities to improve processes and methods for the production of RNA and related products.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, researchers and collaborators, and actively participate in meetings and discussions as required.
• Assist custodians for specialised instruments within your area of expertise supporting maintenance, operation, troubleshooting and training of new users.
• Monitor the effectiveness of existing procedures and provide advice on research and development activities to improve processes and methods.
• Support implementation, maintenance and continuous improvement of the Institute’s Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001 and/or GMP).
• Monitor effectiveness of existing processes (scientific, technical and administrative) and advise on proposals to improve operations.
• Assist with training internal and external stakeholders in the production of RNA and related products as required.
• Cross-train in related methods and perform quality control analysis of RNA and related products as required.
• Proactively assist with research reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, ethics applications, technical procedures, method documentation, safe work procedures and other published materials.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the psychosocial or physical health and safety of yourself or others.

LEVEL 6 –Scientist II
(In addition to the above)

• Design and execute research and development activities to improve processes and methods for the production of RNA and related products.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, researchers and collaborators, and actively lead meetings and discussions as required.
• Manage smaller research/industry-based projects or elements of larger projects within and/or across the Institute, leading staff and influencing other internal and external partners to achieve the project's goals.
• Act as custodian for specialised instruments within your area of expertise supporting procurement, installation, and servicing, while managing maintenance, operation, troubleshooting and training of new users.

About the successful applicant
(Selection Criteria)

LEVEL 5 –Scientist I

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related discipline, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of education, training or experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge in pDNA and mRNA production techniques, in particular downstream processing such as HPLC, FPLC and TFF.
• Demonstrated knowledge in RNA analytical techniques.
• Knowledge and experience working with and troubleshooting a range of technical instruments.
• Demonstrated knowledge or understanding of Quality Management Systems such as ISO 9001 and/or GMP.
• Demonstrated high level of attention to detail and diligence in carrying out and documenting complex procedures.
• Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders whilst exercising discretion and confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively within a team, but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

LEVEL 6 –Scientist II
(In addition to the above)

• A degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related discipline, with subsequent relevant experience, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of formal education, training or industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in techniques used for pDNA and mRNA production, in particular downstream processing such as HPLC, FPLC and TFF.
• Demonstrated experience in RNA analytical techniques is beneficial.
• Demonstrated experience managing operation, troubleshooting and training for a range of specialised instruments.
• Demonstrated experience in Quality Management Systems such as ISO 9001 and/or GMP.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed above in your application.

Find out more about working at UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au

UNSW aspires to be the exemplar Australian university and employer of choice for people from diverse backgrounds. UNSW aims to ensure equality in recruitment, development, retention and promotion of staff and that no-one is disadvantaged on the basis of their gender, cultural background, disability, sexual orientation or identity or Indigenous heritage. We encourage everyone who meets the selection criteria to apply.

UNSW partners with Australia’s leading diversity organisations, networks, and campaigns. Please refer to UNSW’s diversity offerings for further information on our flexible work and leave options, and support for carers (childcare, parent rooms, parental leave).