Senior Research Officer

The Opportunity

Our Translational Genetics Team focuses on providingmolecular analysis of genetic variants, to deliver early, accurate diagnosis andinform best treatment for children living with genetic and rare diseases. Theteam applies functional genomics to interpret patient genetic variants, utilisinginduced pluripotent stem cells and directed differentiation to create personalised,and patient-specific disease models.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a SeniorResearch Officer to join our team to assist with our goal of reducing the timefor patient diagnosis from 5+ years to less than three months. This research willinvolve the ongoing development of high throughput screening approaches for geneticvariant assessment. The screening platforms aim to interpret novel geneticvariants to support patient diagnosis, inform disease, and screen forpersonalised best treatment options.

The position involves project development andexperimental design utilising the latest in induced pluripotent stem celldisease modelling, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and next generation sequencingapproaches.

The role will encompass techniques such as single-cellRNAseq, ATAC-seq, targeted amplicon sequencing, methylation sequencing, andlong read sequencing. The applicant will have a comprehensive knowledge ofthese approaches to support supervision and training of staff and students,assist with data analysis, and interpret research findings.

In this role you will have the opportunity to developa world-leading rare disease research portfolio to deliver diagnosis andtreatment to rare disease children in Western Australia and across the globe.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop new high-throughput CRISPR and single cell assays for genetic variant analysis.
  
• Design experiments to best interpret patient phenotype using appropriate disease models.
  
• Single cell RNA sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing, ATAC-seq, long read sequencing.
  
• Grant writing, preparation of manuscripts for publications, conference presentations, and clinical reporting.
  
• Contribution to research and clinical meetings for patient variant interpretation.
• Student and staff supervision.
  

Based in our modern offices within Perth's Children's Hospital, thisposition will be offered on a full-time basis for an initial 2-year period.

About You

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in Molecular Biology,Cell Biology, Genetics or a related discipline, preferably with 10+ yearsresearch experience or strong track record in the field. You will alsodemonstrate:

• Extensive experience in molecular biology and cell biology methodology.
  
• Demonstrated experience in next generation sequencing.
  
• Application of long-read single cell transcriptomics, isoform-resolved transcriptomic analysis, spatial transcriptomics, and integrative multi-omics approaches.
  
• Expertise in iPSC disease modelling cardiac and neural.
  
• Capacity to identify research priorities and deliver project outcomes.
  
• Track record in scientific paper preparation and securing competitive research funding.
  
• Demonstrated capacity to lead multidisciplinary research projects.
  
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, and lead others.
  
• High-level written and oral communication skills.
  

AtThe Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplaceculture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruitsupport and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderpeople, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diversecommunities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse livedexperiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitmentprocess and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity tothrive.

If you meet many, but not all, of the rolerequirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention anycareer breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion isreflected in how we:

• Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.
  
• Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.
  
• Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.
  
• Partner with communities to strengthen cultural awareness and belonging.
  
• Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.
  
• We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.
  

Alongside our inclusive culture, you'llenjoy:

• Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.
  
• Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.
  
• Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.
  
• Flexible working options.
  
• Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.
  
• Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.
  
• Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.
  

How to Apply

If thisrole feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, pleaseclick on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description,and submit your application.

Pleaseinclude a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses theskills and experience outlined in the "About You" section.

Applicationswill only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencingtechnical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing yourapplication, please contact [email protected].