Job Description

• Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation.
• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 2 years.
• Base salary will be in the range $85,452 to $94,984 + 17% super (HEW Level 5).
• Based at our St Lucia Campus.

About This Opportunity

Join a collaborative team of molecular biologists, geneticists, bioinformaticians and crop researchers supporting two complementary sorghum and sugarcane research projects. As the Crop Genomics Research Technician, you will coordinate laboratory samples and data, undertake molecular assays with technical independence, and help deliver reliable research outcomes that advance the identification and validation of genes and alleles affecting biomass composition, tillering and other important physiological traits.

Key responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

• Plan and undertake molecular laboratory workflows, including plant tissue sampling, DNA extraction, DNA quantification, quality assessment, PCR, genotyping and validation assays.
• Coordinate the receipt, labelling, storage, tracking and movement of samples across laboratory, glasshouse, field and sequencing workflows, maintaining accurate chain-of-custody and project records.
• Design or assist with primers and probes, optimise targeted molecular assays, troubleshoot routine technical issues, and develop or adapt laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Perform quality control and preliminary analysis of laboratory data, maintain project inventories, support safe laboratory operations, and contribute to team planning, milestone reporting and practical guidance for students and colleagues.

About You

• A degree in molecular biology, plant science, biotechnology or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in plant molecular biology laboratory methods, including DNA extraction, DNA quality assessment, targeted PCR and SNP assays, and primer design.
• Demonstrated ability to organise complex sample workflows and maintain accurate laboratory, sample and research-data records, with strong attention to quality, traceability and detail.
• Technical capability in implementing and optimising assays, with the judgement to troubleshoot routine problems and seek advice when issues are novel or have broader project implications.
• Experience supporting field or glasshouse sampling and linking phenotypic records with molecular samples.
• Experience using relevant laboratory equipment and software, together with sound computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and laboratory, sample or research-data management systems.
• Strong interpersonal and written communication skills, with the ability to contribute effectively within multidisciplinary teams and provide clear practical guidance to students and colleagues.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and prioritise concurrent activities, meet research deadlines, and work safely and reliably with limited day-to-day supervision. Experience with sorghum, sugarcane, other grasses or crop-research materials, digital PCR, copy-number assays, targeted sequencing, high-throughput sample processing or primer and probe design would be advantageous.
• A current, valid Class C driver’s licence is essential, with the ability to travel between University, field, glasshouse and other research sites as required.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a purposeful, inclusive and collaborative community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued, and a range of benefits and rewards are available.

Enjoy up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% super, 17.5% leave loading, flexible and hybrid working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on-campus childcare, affordable parking, and salary packaging.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Associate Professor Karen Aitken karen.aitken@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number below in the subject line.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns with the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.

Other Information

Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer-sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criterion but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close 20 September at 11.00pm AEST (R-68290). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for week commencing 28 September.