Senior/Research Technician in Molecular Medicine and Pathology

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are on the search for a Senior or Research Technician, depending on your level of experience, to join our Molecular Medicine and Pathology team. You will be responsible for performing experimental techniques using a larval zebrafish model of acute gouty inflammation to investigate how specific genetic risk factors contribute to gout.  

Extremely painful gout flares are caused by an innate immune system response to monosodium urate crystals deposited in the joints of people with hyperuricemia. Genome-wide association studies have uncovered many genes and gene variants that affect gout risk. To fully realise the therapeutic potential of these discoveries we must understand how these genes contribute to the pathogenesis of gout.

Using a combination of live confocal imaging, transgenesis and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, this role will be focussed on functionally characterising a number of recently identified gout-associated candidate genes.

You will also be involved in the day-to-day management of the laboratory which will involve ordering of consumables and ensuring the laboratory remains compliant with HSNO, MPI and animal ethics requirements.

This is a full-time, 37.5 hours per week, on a fixed-term 36-month contract. The salary range for this role is $58,300 – $84,700 per annum depending on experience and qualifications.

For more detailed information on the role accountabilities and requirements, please review this position description.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You will have a BSc or MSc in biological sciences/genetics/immunology or BSc in biology/genetics/immunology. You will need to be able to work independently and as part of a research team. Strong organisational skills, self-motivation, and the ability to take the initiative are required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, coupled with good computer literacy. You will also have a high level of knowledge and practical skills in at least some of the following techniques: zebrafish husbandry, real-time RT-qPCR, bioinformatics, microinjection, whole-mount in situ hybridisation, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, transgenesis, live confocal imaging, RNA-seq, immunohistochemistry and/or cloning. Previous experience in a zebrafish and/or immunology research lab would be beneficial. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's leading University and maintains significant computational, laboratory, and analytic facilities. Auckland is frequently rated as one of the world's most liveable cities. 

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through the following:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home and flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks' annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programs, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and other discounts on internal and external services. 

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 19/04/2024 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and CV highlighting how you can meet the abovementioned skills and experiences.

Please note that we may close the advert earlier if we find a suitable candidate.

Please reach out to Associate Professor Christopher Hall on [email protected] for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz