Technician, Technical Officer - eDNA Frontiers

Curtin University

Bentley, Perth WA

Laboratory and Technical Services (Science and Technology)

Other (Education and Training)

Full time

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About the Role

Are you ready to support cutting-edge biodiversity research?

The eDNA Frontiers group is seeking a skilled Technician or Technical Officer with extensive laboratory experience to join our vibrant and collaborative team at Curtin University. This role supports our pioneering work in environmental DNA (eDNA) research and service delivery, spanning marine, freshwater, terrestrial, and subterranean environments.

You’ll provide vital technical support to laboratory operations, focusing on high-throughput molecular workflows including PCR, liquid handling systems, and data tracking. Your contribution will ensure the delivery of high-quality results for commercial and research partners and help maintain our rigorous biosecurity and quarantine standards.

This opportunity is open at either a G04 Technician or G05 Technical Officer level depending on your skills and experience.

Your responsibilities will include:

Your duties will include, but are not limited to:

Preparing and maintaining laboratory facilities and fieldwork equipment to support research activities.

Conducting safety inductions and maintaining a safe and clean working environment.

Providing technical support in the setup, calibration, and maintenance of molecular biology equipment (e.g. PCR machines, liquid handlers).

Running samples through analysis equipment and assisting in troubleshooting.

Maintaining laboratory records, SOPs, and ensuring compliance with biosecurity protocols.

Supporting and guiding post-graduate students and staff in the use of laboratory equipment (G05 only).

Contributing to maintaining laboratory documentation and inventory management.

Participating in stocktakes and procurement processes for lab consumables and equipment.

Maintaining and organising laboratory spaces, including chemical and equipment storage.

Working collaboratively within the team to improve lab processes and quality control systems.

Who we are looking for – Essential Criteria:

Essential (for both levels):

Extensive laboratory experience with a strong focus on PCR techniques

Strong multitasking skills to efficiently manage laboratory tasks

Strong commitment to safety, including biosecurity and quarantine protocols.

Excellent teamwork, communication and organisational skills.

Strong attention to detail, with good documentation and record-keeping abilities.

Willingness to learn and engage in ongoing professional development.

G04 (Technician) Criteria:

A relevant diploma or certificate-level qualification with experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant education/training and experience.

Ability to carry out basic maintenance and support lab setup for research.

G05 (Technical Officer) Criteria:

A relevant bachelor’s degree or advanced technical certificate with extensive experience, or equivalent.

Experience guiding post-graduate students or staff, developing SOPs, and preparing laboratory documentation.

Capability to support experimental design and provide advanced technical advice in lab operations.

Desirable:

Experience with automated liquid handling systems.

Previous experience working in a university or research environment.

Role Requirements:

As this is a fixed-term contract, you will require current work rights in Australia that match the tenure of this role

Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction 

A level of fitness commensurate with the position.

Your new Team – eDNA Frontiers:

eDNA Frontiers is a commercially focused service and contract research group embedded in Curtin University. We specialise in environmental DNA applications for biodiversity discovery across ecosystems, from the sea floor to the outback. We work alongside our sister academic lab, the Trace and Environmental DNA (TrEnD) Laboratory, to bridge scientific innovation with practical conservation and monitoring outcomes.

The team forms part of the School of Molecular and Life Sciences (MLS) which comprises the Disciplines of Chemistry, Agriculture and Food, and Ecology. The school boasts an ambitious, multi-disciplinary and industry-focused team that seeks to equip its students and graduates with the skills they need to make tomorrow better. Academics from different disciplines work together to perform high quality teaching and innovative research, and to support each other in achieving at the highest possible level in all aspects of academic life.

About Curtin University

We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live.

What We Offer You:

Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more. 

Join Us!

If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents: 

Up to date CV

Cover Letter outlining your interest, experience and addressing the selection criteria for the role noted above (no more than two pages)

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, quoting the reference number. Please note applications will not be accepted via this email address. 

Applications close: Sunday, 13 July 2025

NOTE: Never make payment to any employer, person, company, contractor or agency to get hired for a Job.

Contact our careers team on CurtinCareers@curtin.edu.au or 08 9266 9000