Scientific Technical Officer or Research Assistant - Herston, Australia - QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute

QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute

Verified Company

Herston, Australia

3 weeks ago

Posted by:

Olivia Brown

beBee Recruiter

Description

Seeking a professional researcher with a drive and passion to science

Assist and support laboratory research projects
Attractive salary packaging & superannuation options

About QIMR Berghofer:

QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute focused on improving health by developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies, specifically in the areas of Cancer, Infection and Inflammation, Mental Health and Neuroscience, and Population Health.

Based in Herston, Brisbane and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and non-research staff.

About B-lymphocytes in Autoimmunity and Malignancies Laboratory:

The B-lymphocytes in Autoimmunity and Malignancies Lab studies the immunobiology of B-lymphocytes, particularly the B cell survival factors BAFF and APRIL and their receptors BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA.

We have shown that these ligand-receptor interactions underlie the pathogenesis of SLE and CLL. We are currently developing novel therapeutic antibodies and small molecules for the treatment of SLE and CLL.

A major focus of the lab is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL), a blood cancer caused by the clonal expansion of mature B cells.

Patients with CLL show severe systemic immunodeficiency that results in death in a quarter of CLL patients despite therapeutic interventions.

Our lab has shown that CLL cells rely on BAFF/APRIL to suppress the immune system through IL-10 production.

We aim to identify novel therapeutic targets that will be able to restore patient immune function in CLL and halt CLL progression.

We have also identified that a fat-rich diet halts CLL progression, and are now investigating the cellular and molecular mechanism underlying this protection against CLL.

Another research area of the lab is to study the impact of gut health on autoimmunity.

Immune tolerance is the mechanism stopping the development and activation of harmful self-reactive lymphocytes capable of attacking a person's healthy tissues.

Reasons why Immune tolerance fails in patients with autoimmune diseases are still not well understood. We have emerging evidence suggesting that gut health is a key factor preserving immune tolerance.

Finding ways to promote immune tolerance in patients suffering from autoimmune conditions is an exciting opportunity offered here with this new position.

Role Purpose / Responsibilities:

Applications are invited for an experienced Research Assistant or Scientific Technical Officer to join the B-lymphocytes in Autoimmunity and Malignancies Lab.

Key Responsibilities include:

Perform laboratory research both independently and in collaboration with other laboratory members including sample processing, cell culture and flow cytometry;
Mouse work including colony management, genotyping, performing experiments (monitoring, sample collection, injections and dissections);
Maintain accurate and detailed records of all experiments conducted;
Analyse and prepare data for experimental reports and communicate the research data to the Chief Investigator;
Assist with administrative duties such as maintaining laboratory databases, records of training, SOPs and inventories.

About you:

This position will suit a motivated, self-driven professional with a strong background in immunology and experience in mouse experiment techniques.

Essential Skills for the Role include:

A Diploma level qualification preferably in Laboratory or Animal Technology or similar for the position of STO and a Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent with a major in Immunology, Microbiology or a related discipline for the position of RA;
Sound knowledge of concepts in Immunology and Cancer Biology;
Comfortable with the use of experimental animals in medical research, experienced with mouse genetics and breeding;
Demonstrated experience with mouse experiment techniques like animal handling, injections, blood collection or monitoring;
Demonstrated ability to undertake administrative roles in a research laboratory, e.g. ordering consumables, writing SOPs;
Proven ability to work with senior researchers and assist to design, perform and analyse experiments in a timely manner;

Other desirable skills and knowledge include experience in cost effective mouse colony management, cell culture and flow cytometry. You should also demonstrate excellent computer skills, scientific programs and the ability to work flexible hours if needed.

Remuneration:
Salary range for RA is $70,408 to $74,397 or STO is $68,485 or $81,609 p.a. (depending on qualifications) plus super and salary packaging. This is a full-time appointment for 2 year from commencement with possibility extension depend on the Funding.

Closing Date:10 September 2023

What we offer: