Research Assistant – Genomics and Epigenetics

Job No: GC201847
Location: Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW

At Garvan our research is focused upon understanding the role of genes and molecular and cellular processes in health and disease as the basis for developing future preventions, treatments and cures. Our scientists are researchers who work towards making significant breakthroughs in scientific discovery to positively impact human health.

About the Project

Our laboratory is investigating the role of the histone variant H2A.Z in enhancer activity and chromatin 3D structure in the context of cancer. Our aim is to characterise the spatio-temporal molecular events responsible for activation of cancer-related enhancers that are mediated by the acetylation of H2A.Z and which co-activators and chromatin remodellers are needed during this process. Elucidating the mechanisms of cancer-related chromatin looping will increase our understanding of carcinogenesis and may lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets.

The Opportunity

We currently have an opportunity for a talented Research Assistant to join the Cancer Epigenetics Research Group, to investigate the complexity of human epigenetic mechanisms and their contribution towards disease. The focus of this position will be to help in conducting and developing molecular biology techniques for epigenetic research projects. In particular, the Research Assistant will use next-generation sequencing technologies to study the dynamics of the epigenome and underlying mechanisms in cancer. The Research Assistant will conduct under initial supervision tissue culture, ChIP-seq and Capture Hi-C (CHi-C). There will be the opportunity to learn data analysis and bioinformatics skills, to interpret results, and to contribute to peer-reviewed publications. There will also be the opportunity to work on general administration and housekeeping duties. This is a junior position and would especially suit a recent honours graduate who is interested in pursuing a PhD in this field.

Required Skills and Experience

  • First class honours or a Research Masters in science or a related field
  • Experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, library preparation, Chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing
  • Experience with cellular biology techniques such as tissue culture and transfection
  • An interest in bioinformatics analysis would be advantageous
  • Critical thinking skills required for interpretation of results and troubleshooting
  • Excellent communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong commitment to quality and attention to detail
  • Comfortable with basic decision making
  • Good organisational and administrative skills

Eligibility

Only applicants with full working rights in Australia are eligible to apply for this role.

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted via the Garvan Careers site:

http://garvan.applynow.net.au/jobs/GC201847  

Please prepare and submit your application following the instructions below: 

  • A cover letter addressing the selection criteria above
  • Your resume including 3 referees
  • Copies of relevant qualifications / academic transcripts

Closing Date

We are reviewing applications as they are received. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Apply Now

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