Genomic Laboratory Scientist

Home Careers Study Pathology or Forensics

Genomic medical laboratory scientists analyse patient samples using specialised equipment and advanced techniques to detect and interpret genomic data, including markers for haematological malignancies, cancer, rare genetic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, and pathogens.

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About the opportunity

NSW Health Pathology is the largest single genetic service provider in Australia, providing services to all NSW public hospitals and many private hospitals.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art methods and equipment in the field of genomics, and with leading scientists and the clinical experts who rely on these results to make decisions on patient treatments and management.

Our reproductive genomics team helps give families confidence and autonomy at what can be a stressful time. The highly skilled variant curation scientists assist clinicians in targeting new, potentially life-saving treatment pathways for patients with difficult-to-treat or incurable cancers and aid in diagnosing rare diseases and neurological disorders. We continuously innovate to ensure that patients across NSW benefit from the advantages of molecular diagnostic testing, regardless of their location.

One of the things I value most about working as a NSW Health Pathology molecular scientist is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families across the state. Once a diagnosis has been established, we often end up providing genetic testing for multiple generations within that known family. Although we may often be behind-the-scenes, the information generated from our work is vital in decision-making processes for these individuals and their clinicians.

– Judith Wong, Scientific Officer, Molecular Medicine Laboratory, NSWHP Concord

What you’ll be doing

Genomic Laboratory Scientists conduct a wide range of DNA and RNA analyses using advanced techniques such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), digital droplet PCR, microarray and karyotyping to evaluate genetic variations associated with patient diseases.

About you

You’ll have qualities and expertise including:

A minimum relevant tertiary degree qualification (or equivalent degree) in Medical Laboratory Science, Genetics, Molecular biology, Microbiology or a related discipline.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the delivery of pathology services relevant to a Medical Genomics laboratory and/or demonstrated knowledge in Cancer Somatic Mutation Testing with familiarity in common molecular genetics techniques
Demonstrated use of Laboratory Information Systems, Patient Systems and Quality Control Systems and computer programs such as Microsoft Office suite
Customer focused approach displaying well-developed interpersonal skills and good oral and written communication skills including the ability to communicate effectively with customers, patients and clinical and laboratory staff, along with report writing skills, statistical evaluation of scientific data and the ability to effectively communicate policies and procedures
Ability to work in a responsible and efficient manner and to manage competing priorities to meet deadlines
Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment while working autonomously to deliver results within specified timeframes and contribute to a range of diagnostic skills relevant to the laboratory
Display initiative, problem solving and analytical skills including an ability to apply established principles in a pathology laboratory and investigate and resolve general and complex issues within the laboratory environment
Sound understanding of legislation, policies and requirements that impact the laboratory environment including work health and safety and privacy requirements as well as an understanding of working in a NATA equivalent accredited medical testing environment.

What do Medical Laboratory Scientists do?

If you’re passionate about science and intrigued by the idea of being a scientific detective, a career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in Genomics could be your perfect fit. These professionals analyse genomic data to uncover clinically significant insights that can impact patients and their families. They use state-of-the-art technologies, such as next-generation sequencing, digital droplet PCR, karyotyping and microarray. They perform complex testing, interpret results, and collaborate closely with clinicians to select the most appropriate tests and detect genetic variation to help diagnose disease.

As the demand for genomic testing continues to grow, Medical Laboratory Scientists in Genomics are at the forefront of a healthcare revolution, working in a dynamic, fast-paced field with exciting and rewarding opportunities.

Medical Laboratory Scientists in Genomics are highly skilled and trained and can specialise in several areas including:

Cancer Genomics
Rare Disease Genomics
Pathogen Genomics
Forensics & Analytical Services

Meet one of our talented and dedicated senior scientists and find out why they find their career so rewarding.

Improvements in nucleic acid sequencing technology allow us to uncover more novel genetic variants than ever before. As a genetic scientist, I find it rewarding to be able to interpret and bring these new discoveries to the clinical setting. This improves diagnosis and clinical management in patients afflicted by rare genetic diseases.

– Stipe Zekanovic, Hospital Scientist, Medical Genomics, NSWHP Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

What we can offer you

Accrued days off in addition to annual leave
Generous salary packaging options and other fringe benefits, particularly for those who choose to work in regional or rural NSW
Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme – up to $10,000 a year plus super for eligible positions
Employee Assistance Program – confidential, professional, free counselling for employees and their household members
Corporate wellbeing programs, including the Fitness Passport
Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training with RTO My Health Learning

View more Employee Benefits

Position Classification: Scientific Officer

Hours Per Week 38

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