Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) was Australia’s first dedicated paediatric research facility and is now one of the nation’s most highly regarded independent medical research centres. CMRI’s research programs are supported by state-of-the-art facilities and committed research and support staff. In a collaborative effort with the University of Sydney and the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network (SCHN), CMRI has built a world-leading gene therapy program, capturing the entire translational journey from idea to therapeutic reality, including state-of-the-art research facilities, dedicated Process Development (PD) and clinical viral vector manufacturing facilities. Aligned with our efforts in the gene therapy space, CMRI has established Australian first Vector and Genome Engineering Facility (VGEF) dedicated to distribution of viral vectors and gene therapy tools and reagents, and Translational Vectorology Research Unit (TVRU), which specializes in the development of novel recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) and individualised gene therapeutics for the treatment of rare paediatric genetic conditions. Both laboratories benefit from direct leadership of Associate Professor Lisowski, an expert in vector-based gene therapy. In addition to highly dedicated and motivated researchers, our achievements are made possible by a loyal network of community supporters, highly engaged donors and the very successful Jeans for Genes® fundraising campaign.

Applications are invited for three Research Officer positions (postdoctoral researchers) in the Translational Vectorology Research Unit (TVRU) under the direct mentorship of Associate Professor Lisowski. The newly established projects relate to the development of novel bioengineered AAV vectors for gene therapy applications targeting paediatric and adult genetic disorders. The successful applicants will be responsible for working independently and as part of larger research unit and perform research in the area of AAV vectorology under PC2 conditions. The work may involve direct interactions with an international commercial partner (the sponsor of the project).

The candidates will manage multiple concurrent experiments and will also be involved in supervising junior members of the research team, including students. As part of the research project, the successful candidates will be responsible for performing a wide range of molecular biology assays including, but not limited to, molecular cloning, DNA/RNA purification, qPCR and ddPCR, blotting and sequencing, including NGS. The candidates will be directly involved in vector manufacturing and purification, including transfections of suspension and adherent cells and vector purification using gradient centrifugations and FPLC-based methods. In addition, the positions involve undertaking routine tasks related to the maintenance of the laboratory and preparation of standard operating procedures (SOPs). The successful candidates will be directly involved in the preparation of scientific reports and grant applications. This appointment is initially for a fixed term of 12 months, with continuing tenure subject to satisfactory performance, and the requirements of research projects in the Research Unit.

The applicants must hold a PhD and/or MD degree inclusive of course work in molecular biology or biotechnology and have at least one years of relevant post-graduate research experience in molecular cloning, DNA/RNA biology and cell culture. The candidates must have demonstrated the ability to work independently, manage multiple (sometimes competing) priorities and integrate multiple work initiatives into the overall facility goals, while meeting appropriate deadlines.

Preference will be given to applicants with experience in design and cloning of mammalian expression cassettes, working with adeno associated viral (AAV) vectors and familiar with AAV bioengineering techniques, as well as to those with experience in gene editing and bioinformatics. Strong background working with preclinical in vitro and in vivo model systems is desirable, but not required.

Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems and proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel are required. Applications are encouraged from enthusiastic and motivated individuals with excellent technical ability and communication skills.

The successful applicant will be provided with a competitive remuneration package in accordance with qualifications and experience. Additional benefits include the provision of a Public Benevolent Institution salary packaging scheme and participation in an employer-contributed superannuation fund.

Interested candidates should contact A/Prof Lisowski directly (llisowski@cmri.org.au). Applications should include a cover letter (citing PV2204), curriculum vitae and contact details (phone/email) of three professional referees and be forwarded to recruitment@cmri.org.au

This is a rolling application process with the closing date on or before 16^th February 2022.