The Westmead Institute for Medical Research is seeking a qualified bacteriologist/molecular biologist to join their Plasmid Team within the Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology (CIDM), as a Senior Research Assistant. She/He will be working under the supervision of Dr. Muhammad Kamruzzaman.
This position will provide experimental support for an NHMRC-funded research project focused on natural conjugative plasmids and the development of preventative probiotic plasmids aimed at limiting the acquisition and spread of antibiotic resistance genes.
About the Project
The project investigates the biological functions of plasmid modular systems and explores engineered plasmids as protective tools against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This will include:
* Functional characterization of plasmid systems
* Genetic engineering of plasmids
* Mechanistic studies of plasmid transmission and conjugation
Key Responsibilities
* Conduct day-to-day laboratory experiments as directed
* Perform molecular genetics and bacteriology benchwork
* Support data collection, analysis, and documentation
* Assist with literature reviews and preparation of research reports
* Ensure compliance with research ethics, regulatory, and safety standards
* Maintain effective communication within the plasmid research team
Qualifications & Skills Required
* A PhD in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related field
* Or a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Science with laboratory experience in molecular biology and bacteriology
* Strong practical bacteriology experience (media preparation, culture maintenance, growth analysis)
* Advanced molecular biology expertise and hands‐on experience in DNA/RNA extraction and analysis, PCR and qPCR, gene cloning and mutagenesis
* Experience in bacterial conjugation assays
* Genetic engineering techniques
* Bacterial culture maintenance and growth kinetics assays
* Experience drafting scientific reports or publications
#J-18808-Ljbffr