Research Projects Officer – Safflower Biotechnology

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The opportunity

• Bring your expertise in genetically-modified safflower to a varied role
• Great opportunity to work on impactful high-value research & commercial projects
• Contribute to creating the next generation of plant-based oils!

Some of CSIRO’s gene technology research produces genetically modified products which provide innovative and unique opportunities for Australian agriculture and consumers. One of our successful research projects in this field is the production of industrial oil from safflower seeds, that contain over 92% oleic acid – called Super-High Oleic (SHO) safflower . Developed as part of the ‘Crop Biofactories Initiative’, GM safflower oil is approved for use in industrial products such as lubricants and transformer oils, offering an alternative to palm and crude oils.
In this hands-on lab-based role, you will join our dynamic research project team in Canberra, and actively work on generating genetically modified safflower for a range of high-value products. You will be collaborating with other high-performing scientists, research technicians and project staff on a regular basis, and playing a key role within the team in conducting all aspects of this genetic modification process.
If you have a keen interest in this field, and looking for an opportunity to be part of a collaborative team pioneering the next oil boom using plants, this would be an exciting role for you! CSIRO champions in providing a diverse and inclusive culture, supports flexible work arrangements, and offers you excellent professional development opportunities to grow your skills & career.

Your duties will include:

• Under limited supervision, design and perform straightforward experiments and routine laboratory analyses, design new processes or apparatus by adapting existing techniques and components to meet special circumstances or undertake modifications to methods requiring some innovation. Primarily:
  • Perform routine seed sterilisation and tissue culture methodologies.
  • Management of the plant materials through to seed setting and various analyses of the seed, such as DNA, lipid and protein studies.
• Contribute to project presentations with clients and to writing reports or scientific publications.
• Perform some non-routine analyses or technology development activities using a range of techniques, often working on a number of parallel and competing tasks.
• Independently test possible solutions to resolve identified problems.
• Communicate openly, effectively and respectfully with all staff, clients and suppliers in the interests of good business practice, collaboration and enhancement of CSIRO’s reputation.
• Work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary, regionally dispersed, research team to carry out tasks in support of CSIRO’s scientific objectives.

Location: Canberra (Black Mountain), ACT

Salary: AU$70K – AU$90K pa + up to 15.4% superannuation

Tenure: Specified Term of 12 months

Reference: 96105

To be considered you will need:

• Relevant diploma/bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant work experience in a relevant field, such as plant biology, biology, or science. 
• Experience with tissue culture, preferably in plants and using genetic modification techniques, and working in laboratory and/or glasshouse settings.
• A general understanding of genetic transformation of plants, such as the use of agrobacteria.
• Practical experience with molecular biology, such as DNA manipulation and DNA vector constructions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small and dynamic team.
• Demonstrated experience in clear record keeping enabling seed and progeny management.

For full details about this role please review the Position Description.

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

Flexible working arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

Diversity and inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

About CSIRO

At CSIRO Australia’s national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications close

14 April 2024, 11:00pm AEST/AEDT