Victorian Clinical Genetics Services (VCGS) - Biochemical Genetics

The laboratories provide a unique screening and diagnostic testing service for the state of Victoria. This service is delivered via the Department of Health funded Newborn Bloodspot Screening program which screens all Victorian babies for 29 conditions and the Metabolic Laboratory which screens symptomatic children and adults for inborn errors of metabolism. The two labs use a variety of mass spectrometry, chromatography and immunoassay techniques for biomarker analysis with an increasing focus on genetic testing. This role is crucial in ensuring the delivery of accurate and timely results, encompassing all stages of the testing process from sample receipt and processing to analysis, result validation, and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Daily Operations: Support and perform daily tasks to ensure accurate and timely results.
• Technical Support: Sample reception, test assignment, perform routine assays, data entry and review, inventory checking and ordering, assist with method development, laboratory process improvements, and the organisation of internal quality control and external quality assurance.
• Quality Assurance: Maintain high-quality standards through routine equipment checks and trouble-shooting, filing, reagent preparation, record-keeping, and responding to external client inquiries.
• Team Collaboration: Work effectively within a small, flexible team to adapt to daily laboratory and workload changes. Participate in internal education programs, maintain competency and demonstrate continuing professional development.

Work Schedule

• Routine hours: Mon to Fri, 9AM – 530PM
• A monthly rostered day off
• Out-of-Hours Work: Participation in rostered overtime and other out-of-hours duties as required.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital health services while growing your skills in a supportive and innovative environment. If you are a meticulous, adaptable, and collaborative professional, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our dedicated team.

What’s in it for you?

• Attractive salary packaging including entertainment and novated leases
• Work in a supportive team that values innovation and continuous improvement
• Opportunities for ongoing training and educational support
• We value our employees, which is why we offer a health and wellbeing program including free access to an Employee Assistance Program

Additional responsibilities include:

• Provision of real-time services to meet internal and external stakeholder needs
• Maintain laboratory documents and equipment
• Maintain a tidy and safe laboratory and workplace
• Maintain waste collection and disposal
• Maintain laboratory stock inventory and ensure that stocks are kept in supply
• Maintain laboratory reagents and equipment records

What we need from you

• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science and/or Honours
• Experience in a ISO15189 accredited high volume laboratory environment, medical laboratory procedures, bioanalytical methodology and clinical mass spectrometry.
• Genomics experience is desirable.
• Experience with internal quality control and external quality assurance as pertaining to an ISO15189 accredited laboratory
• Australian residency or demonstrated right to work full-time in Australia for a period of at least 2 years.

For more information regarding responsibilities and requirements please refer to the to the position description.

Any specific questions related to this position should be directed to Ronda Greaves at [email protected] using the subject line: Medical Scientist enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Who we are

The Victorian Clinical Genetics Service (VCGS), a not-for-profit subsidiary of the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), offers integrated genetic testing, diagnostics, and counselling globally. Our experts collaborate closely to ensure accurate interpretation of complex genetic tests. VCGS is actively involved in driving translational research, policy development, and fostering an inclusive and positive working environment that values diversity and prioritizes equal opportunities for all. We are dedicated to developing our staff and creating a culture centred on respect and continuous learning.

Join us!

We welcome individuals of diverse genders, ages, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, abilities, religions, and sexual orientations in our workplace. We actively encourage talented individuals from all walks of life to apply for our job openings. Our commitment lies in fostering a workplace that is barrier-free and inclusive, aiming to attract the most skilled candidates.

If you feel this role is right for you, please apply with a copy of your resume and cover letter addressing the selection criteria.

For any questions related to the recruitment process, feel free to reach out to our Recruitment team at [email protected]. Ensure that you include the position number and job title in the subject line. Please refrain from sharing your application to this email address.

Please note, we reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the closing date once a sufficient number of applications have been received.

Position Description