An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced and highly motivated Technical Officer (Clinical Biology) to join a collaborative and innovative academic environment. This position will support the delivery of teaching and research activities within the discipline of Biological Sciences, with a particular focus on microbiology and clinical laboratory practices.
About the Role
Working as part of a dedicated technical services team, the Technical Officer will provide expert support across teaching laboratories and research initiatives. The role requires a proactive and safety-focused individual who can manage biological and chemical materials, maintain laboratory equipment, and contribute to a positive and productive laboratory environment.
The successful candidate will ensure that teaching and research spaces are fully operational, compliant with health and safety regulations, and equipped to deliver a high-quality student and staff experience.
Key Responsibilities
Ensure the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and biological materials in accordance with WHS legislation and institutional protocols (e.g. MSDS, GHS, and local waste management procedures).
Maintain aseptic conditions through best-practice microbiological techniques, including flame sterilisation, use of biosafety cabinets, and sterile sample handling.
Prepare and manage microbial cultures (e.g. streak plating, inoculation, pour plates, serial dilution) and perform microscopy procedures including wet mount preparation, Gram staining, and differential staining.
Operate, calibrate, and maintain a broad range of laboratory equipment, including:
Autoclaves, incubators (standard, CO₂, shaking)
Spectrophotometers/plate readers
Centrifuges, pH meters, balances, pipettes
MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer
EVOS fluorescence and compound microscopes
Biosafety cabinets and thermal cyclers (e.g. Bio-Rad Touch)
Provide technical training and guidance to students and academic staff on laboratory procedures and equipment usage.
Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and assist in the preparation and review of risk assessments.
Collaborate with academic staff on laboratory planning and upgrades, and assist in facilitating virtual tours or stakeholder visits as required.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:
A degree in Microbiology, Biological Sciences, or a related discipline, and/or equivalent relevant experience in a laboratory setting.
Sound knowledge of occupational health and safety legislation and its application in a chemistry or biological sciences laboratory.
Extensive hands-on experience with microbiological techniques, aseptic procedures, and the use of laboratory instrumentation.
Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in record-keeping and procedural adherence.
Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and incubation schedules.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
A current Working with Children Check (mandatory).
What We Offer
The opportunity to work in a world-class university environment supporting impactful teaching and research.
A flexible, part-time appointment with a competitive hourly rate and additional benefits.
A supportive and collegial team committed to excellence and continuous improvement.
How to Apply
Please submit your application, including a current resume and a cover letter in WORD formnat addressing the key selection criteria.
At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.
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