Employer : Garvan Institute
Closing date: 1/6/26
Brief position description:
The Puttick Lab sits at the intersection of computational biology, immunology and genomics. Our research focuses on understanding how the immune system recognises foreign threats, such as cancer and infected cells, and becomes activated to eliminate them. We also investigate how these processes fail, contributing to human disease.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Research Assistant/Research Officer will join the lab and lead an exciting project focused on the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes.
The HLA genes play a central role in both adaptive and innate immunity, governing antigen presentation as well as antigen-independent activating and inhibitory signalling pathways. Our group studies HLA biology using next-generation sequencing data, with a particular focus on understanding how these genes are regulated in both normal tissues and cancer. Due to the extreme genetic diversity of the HLA region, this work requires the development and application of specialised computational approaches. We are seeking talented and motivated researchers to join the lab and contribute to projects investigating the regulation of HLA genes across diverse biological contexts, working closely with our collaborators in London.
Research Assistant/Research Officers are appointed on a salary scale depending on level of experience, performance and requirements of the role required within the lab/group. For further information, refer to Garvan’s Research Assistant, Senior Research Assistant and Research Officer Criteria.
Salary: Up to $117,400 + 14% superannuation + salary packaging (depending on experience)
Employment Type: 2-year fixed-term , full-time
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The key responsibilities include:
1. Scientific Excellence
- Development of novel computational methods and analytical tools
- Analysis of large-scale sequencing and genomics datasets
- Biological interpretation of results
- Preparation of manuscripts for publication
- Presentation of findings at national and international conferences and meetings
- Mentoring and supporting junior members of the laboratory
2. Institute Contributions
- Values & Integrity: Demonstrate scientific and professional integrity at all times, acting as a role model for ethical behaviour.
- Active Participation: Contribute to the wider institute community by participating in committees, outreach projects, or donor activities.
3. Health & Safety and Risk Management
- Comply with Garvan’s workplace polices (as amended from time to time) and especially Garvan’s Work Health & Safety (WHS) Policy, including working in accordance with the WHS management system at all times, as safety is Garvan’s number one priority.
- Proactively identify, assess, and report operational, financial, and safety risks associated with the duties of this role. The incumbent is required to adhere to the organisation’s Risk Management Framework, ensure all activities are conducted in accordance with established policies and procedures, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by suggesting mitigation strategies for identified hazards or inefficiencies.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
The key skills and experience include:
Education:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Science or Medicine is required; a Master’s Degree is preferable for advanced candidates.
- Research Officer roles require a PhD or MD (Doctor of Medicine) in a relevant subject area
Experience:
- Required experience varies depending on appointment level, with RA1 requiring minimal experience and more advanced appointments requiring previous experience.
Technical Skills:
- High-level skills in coding, data interpretation and statistical analysis.
Competencies:
- Strong computer literacy (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and the ability to produce publishable-standard visual data representations.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this position, please submit your application with a CV and cover letter as one document, stating why you are interested in this role. We are reviewing applications as they are received. If you think you’re the right person for this role, we’d love to hear how your capabilities, achievements and experience set you apart. Only applicants with full working rights in Australia are eligible to apply for this role.
Job website: http://garvan.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/garvan_institute/job/Sydney/Research-Assistant---Research-Officer_PRF8160
Contact name: Clare Puttick
Contact email: c.puttick@garvan.org.au