Research Officer - Genomics

The Clinical Genomics Laboratory (led by A/Prof Jodie Ingles) aims to find ways to use genomics and genetic counselling to equitably improve care, clarify diagnosis, refine risk information for families with genetic cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular diseases affecting children and young people often have underlying genetic causes. Gaps in our knowledge about the underlying genetic architecture of cardiovascular diseases have limited our capacity to diagnose, predict risk and effectively manage families. Despite three decades of research, genetic testing currently identifies a causative variant in only ~40% of affected families and cannot predict those who will develop severe outcomes.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The RO will contribute to a number of new and existing research projects, including NSW Hearts and the Elusive Hearts Study.

This includes:

• Genomic analysis of patients undergoing cardiac transplant for nonischaemic cardiomyopathy, as part of a Synergy grant in collaboration with other centres in Australia and internationally

• Gene discovery research efforts to identify the underlying genetic cause of disease for families enrolled in Elusive Hearts and NSW Hearts

• Work with national and international collaborators to answer key research questions affecting our patient population.

Salary: Up to $101,800 + 14% superannuation + salary packaging (depending on experience)

Employment Type: 2 year contract with possibility to extend

SNAPSHOT OF BENEFITS

• Generous salary packaging to save you income tax on your wages thereby boosting your monthly take home pay (max. $15,900 general expenses + $2,650 meals/accom)

• Ample opportunities for on-going training and development

• Stimulating, diverse and highly international research environment

• Flexible work arrangements e.g. start / finish times

• 18 weeks paid parental leave for both parents including paid superannuation

• A range of additional leave types to meet your personal needs including cultural leave, conference leave, community service and study leave

• Discounted Health Insurance

• Lifestyle discounts with our community partners

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The key responsibilities include:

• Contribute to existing research studies and take initiative on new projects

• Mentor and support other lab staff and students

• Demonstrate participation in administrative duties of the research group, e.g., oversight of day-to-day lab activities

• Play an increasing role in the development of research projects and collaborations

• Contribute to research grants and act as an Associate Investigator for various applications

• Present your research at national and international meetings

• Prepare first-author publications, and contribute to middle-author publications

• Participate in Garvan’s organisation and management, via committee membership involvement in training and mentoring, journal clubs etc.

• Participate in professional activities as a member of scientific societies

• Participate in communication of science to the public, via public seminars and media interviews

ABOUT YOU

The key skills and experience of a Research Officer include:

• PhD or MD in a relevant area. We would consider research assistants with the right skillset.

• Extensive experience with clinical genomics research is required

• Experience with RNAseq analysis, or willingness to learn

• Experience in cardiovascular genetics and familiarity with clinical phenotypes and genetic test interpretation is desirable

• Experience in monogenic disease gene discovery methods is desirable

• Experience in clinical research and data analysis

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

• Have a strong commitment to the continuous delivery of high-quality work

• Have excellent communication skills for written reports and oral presentations

• Demonstrate a capacity to work collaboratively with researchers across laboratories

• Be well organised and a good time manager with sound administrative abilities

ABOUT GARVAN

Garvan Institute of Medical Research is an independent Medical Research Institute (MRI) in Sydney, delivering scientific and clinical impact on a global basis and in partnership with organisations that share our vision. We are proud to be one of Australia’s largest and most highly regarded MRI’