Research Assistant – Breast Cancer
Job No:
GC222
Location:
Darlinghurst
The Garvan Institute of Medical Research is one of Australia’s leading medical research institutes, with over 600 scientists, students and support staff. We pioneer study into the most widespread diseases affecting our community today, including cancer, neurodegenerative and mental diseases, disorders of the immune system, diabetes and obesity, osteoporosis and other skeletal disorders.
The focus of our Cell Survival Laboratory is to discover the ways in which cancer cells avoid death, survive, grow and resist therapy. By understanding these mechanisms, we aim to discovery new therapeutic strategies capable of eradicating disease in patients diagnosed with breast cancer. We hope to refine these new therapies in combination with conventional chemotherapy and target them to cancer cells so that patients will no longer have to suffer the burden of the dose limiting toxic side effects so commonly associated with routine cancer treatment.
We are currently seeking a Research Assistant to join our team to help investigate the role of pro-survival proteins in breast cancer metastasis. The Research Assistant will establish cohorts of mice bearing human tumour xenografts and monitor tumour formation. Tissues will be harvested from these studies and processed as per our established techniques. The Research Assistant will also perform in vitro studies of cell death, cytotoxic sensitivity, adhesion, and invasion in 2D and 3D.
Training will be offered in all techniques relevant to the project and the successful candidate should have ambition for enrolment in a PhD.
Responsibilities include
- Mouse mammary tumour modelling and tissue collection
- Processing of above samples
- Cell culture work
- Perform molecular and cell biological techniques
- Perform immunoblotting techniques
- Participate in group discussions
- Aid other group members in developing improved techniques or procedures
- Will share responsibility for laboratory maintenance
Skills and experience
- Bsc (Honours 1) or above or equivalent
- Experience with tumour tissue harvesting for the purposes of DNA, RNA, protein extraction and cell culture experiments highly advantageous
- Experience with cell culture techniques and histology required
- Experience in in vivo metabolic studies, molecular biology or protein biochemistry and an understanding of basic signalling processes would be an advantage
- Solid knowledge and experience working within a laboratory environment
- Highly experience in English writing with particular focus on cancer related papers and grants
- Experience using Microsoft word, Excel, Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator
- Excellent communication skills and should be able to work effectively in teams
The Offer
Garvan offers a friendly and professional work environment in state of the art modern building and facilities, on-site café, social club and close to cafes and public transport. You’ll be rewarded with a competitive salary, above market Superannuation and attractive salary packaging options. This role is full time (38 hours pw) for an initial one (1) year fixed term contract.
How to Apply
Please prepare and submit your application as per the directions below:
- A Cover Letter addressing the Selection Criteria above
- Your Resume including 3 Referees
- Copies of relevant qualifications / Academic transcripts
Closing Date
This advert will remain open until the role is filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Eligibility
Only applicants with full working rights in Australia are eligible to apply for this role.