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• 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:

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

The Scientist is responsible for providing professional and technical support to facilitate the analysis of RNA for pre-clinical studies and conduct quality control activities in a regulated environment. The role will contribute to and apply knowledge in the field of RNA analysis to a range of projects conducted within the UNSW RNA Institute.

About the role

• Level 5/6 ($88k - $110K) plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 19 months (to December 24, 2027)
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

The role reports to the Quality Manager and has no direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

LEVEL 5

• Conduct quality control analyses of RNA, DNA, lipid nanoparticles and related products under the Institute’s Quality Management System(s) within agreed timelines.
• Assist in the processing and production of RNA and related products, when required.
• Assist in development activities to improve processes and methods for the production and analysis of RNA and related products as required.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, researchers and collaborators, and actively participate in meetings and discussions as required.
• Provide technical support and training to stakeholders and collaborators as required.
• Assist custodians with specialised instruments supporting maintenance, operation, troubleshooting and training of new users.
• Support implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Institute’s laboratory and 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 general laboratory processes and routine analytical techniques as well as the production, as required.
• Crosstrain in related analytical and processing methods as required.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the UNSW Values in Action: Our Behaviours and the UNSW Code of Conduct
• Cooperate with all health and safety policy and procedures of the University and take all reasonable care to ensure your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself and others.

Level 6:
(in addition to the above)

• Design and execute development activities to optimise processes and methods for the production and analyses of RNA and related products.
• 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.
• Prepare and contribute to the production of technical reports, case studies, safe work procedures and process documentation.
• Proactively assist with research reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, ethics applications, technical procedures, method documentation, safe work procedures and other published materials.

About the successful applicant
(Selection Criteria)

LEVEL 5:

• A degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry or related discipline, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of education, training or experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of RNA analytical techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge of RNA production techniques such as synthetic RNA/DNA and IVT mRNA and lipid nanoparticles.
• 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 GLP standards. GMP knowledge is beneficial.
• 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 and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Level 6:
(in addition to the above)

• A degree in Chemistry, 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 knowledge and hands-on experience in RNA, DNA and lipid nanoparticle analytical techniques.
• Demonstrated experience in production processes used for RNA and related products 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.

Please apply online - applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:
Alison Ho
E: alison.ho1@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: June 4^th, 2025

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).