Jobs and Careers

• Support project delivery and day to day lab operations
• Modest relocation allowance considered for the right person
• Full Time, Fixed Term (until December 2028) based in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies is looking for a Genetic Laboratory Technician to support the delivery of applied molecular monitoring tools for fisheries compliance and conservation within the Forensic Fisheries Lab.

Working closely with the Principal Investigator and research team, the role strengthens laboratory capacity while driving implementation of quality systems required for forensic capability and accreditation.

As our new Genetic Laboratory Technician, you will bring strong practical skills in molecular genetics (DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR DNA sequencing), excellent attention to detail, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently in a laboratory setting.

Your core responsibilities will include laboratory management ensuring safe and efficient molecular lab operations and development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Management System (QMS) documentation aligned with wildlife forensic standards.

You will also undertake analyst work, including species identification using PCR, qPCR and long-read sequencing technologies, with a focus on standardisation and validation of molecular workflows that produce defensible outputs to support real-world fisheries monitoring and traceability.

What you’ll do:

• Implement quality management and documentation systems to support laboratory accreditation, including development and maintenance of SOPs, QMS records, and workflow documentation aligned with wildlife forensic standards.
• Undertake analyst work and molecular laboratory testing, including DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR assay workflows and optimisation, and long-read sequencing approaches for species identification and traceability applications.
• Contribute to standardisation and validation of molecular monitoring methods, ensuring workflows are reproducible, auditable, and fit-for-purpose for real-world fisheries monitoring contexts.
• Provide effective laboratory operations management including inventory and stock control, ordering, sample tracking, equipment readiness, and adherence to laboratory safety and biosecurity procedures.
• Support project delivery and service workflows by maintaining accurate records and documentation and assisting with administrative processes.

­What we’re looking for:

• Degree, Honours/Masters or above (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline such as molecular biology, marine biology, molecular ecology, genetics, biotechnology, wildlife forensic science.
• Demonstrated experience in molecular genetics laboratory techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, primer optimisation and troubleshooting.
• Experience generating species identification outcomes using genetic approaches, including familiarity with sequencing workflows such as Sanger sequencing and/or Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long-read sequencing, and strong QA/QC practices.
• Proven capability supporting laboratory operations and management.
• Experience developing, maintaining or working within standardised laboratory documentation systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively, contribute positively to team culture, and build respectful, constructive relationships with colleagues, students and project partners.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Research Assistant Level 1 - 3 and will have a total remuneration package of $103,327 comprising base salary of $83,198 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience.  You do not need to separately address the success profile.
• For further information about this position, please contact Madeline Green, Research Fellow Molecular Fisheries Ecologist on Madeline.Green@utas.edu.au
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description - 502323 - Genetic Laboratory Technician (Molecular Monitoring & Standards).pdf

Applications close Sunday, 22 March 2026, 11.55pm

 The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.