Research Assistant in Vector-Borne Disease

Research Assistant

Job No.: 614988

Location: Clayton campus

Employment Type: Full-time

Duration:  12-month fixed-term appointment

Remuneration: $69,401 - $94,190 pa Level A (plus 9.5% employer superannuation)

• Work with a world recognised organisation within Monash University
• Contribute to a global not-for-profit effort to eliminate infectious diseases
• Take your career to exciting, rewarding directions

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a global non-profit initiative that calls Monash University home. The Institute of Vector-Borne Disease (IVBD) is collaborating with the World Mosquito Program (WMP) to protect countries around the world from mosquito-borne viruses that threaten the health of people living in tropical and subtropical regions. The WMP uses safe and natural bacteria called Wolbachia to reduce the ability of mosquitoes to transmit diseases including dengue, Zika and chikungunya. Following many years of laboratory research and field trials, the WMP now operates in 12 countries and is expanding. The IVBD seeks to build upon this with a genetic research and surveillance program that can quantify the impact of Wolbachia rollout on vector, human and pathogen populations, and can provide insights into the natural epidemiology of vector-borne diseases.

The Opportunity

We are looking for an experienced Research Assistant to support a broad range of studies in the Vector Genomics research group. This Fixed-Term opportunity with the possibility of extension will be reporting to the Senior Research Fellow (Vector and Pathogen Genomics).

The Research Assistant will play a key role in the development of our genomics research program, being responsible for all tasks relating to the generation of high-quality genomic sequence for a wide range of vector and viral species. This will include the generation of sequencing libraries; the management and curation of genetic data; the use of molecular diagnostic and assays; and the development of novel and optimised approaches for all of the above. Where novel techniques are devised we will strongly support the Research Assistant in generating high quality academic publications and developing an independent research profile.

As the successful candidate, you will have experience in the preparation of Illumina sequencing libraries including quantification, size and purity assays; excellent technical skills in molecular biology; and experience of genomic data management and curation. Candidates will be preferred who have experience in the particular demands of pathogen sequence, complex/mixed sample sequencing, hybrid-capture techniques, or who have experience working with low-quality input samples such as desiccated, aged, or otherwise degraded DNA.

As the role is in a rapidly developing institute and platform, the role would suit somebody independent and resourceful who is adept at quickly build effective working relationships with a range of local and international project partners, multi-disciplinary colleagues and key stakeholders.

This role is a full-time position; however, flexible working arrangements may be negotiated.

At Monash University, we are committed to being a Child Safe organisation. Some positions at the University will require the incumbent to hold a valid Working with Children Check.

For instructions on how to apply, please refer to “How to apply for Monash Jobs”.

Enquiries

Dr Seth Redmond, Senior Research Fellow, seth.redmond@monash.edu

Position Description

 Research Assistant

Closing Date

Thursday 4 March 2021, 11:55 pm AEDT