Laboratory Technical Officer, Genetics and Ecology - Wellington
Have you got a postgraduate qualification in biological sciences
Are you an enthusiastic team player with a background in ecology and genetics?
Do you hold a current full NZ driver's licence and can work independently to prepare media, buffers, and other common laboratory reagents?
Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role
Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently seeking a Laboratory Technical Officer, Genetics and Ecology to join Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora - School of Biological Sciences Technical team. This team plays a key role in supporting the laboratory, research, and teaching programmes within the school.
As a Laboratory Technical Officer, your primary responsibility will be to ensure the safe, efficient, and effective delivery of undergraduate laboratory and teaching programmes in genetics and ecology, with the flexibility to grow into additional disciplines as needed. You will collaborate with academic staff to develop lab sessions, prepare materials, and assist with technical needs in both laboratory and field environments, ensuring the smooth operation of practical teaching and research activities.
This position offers variety and engagement within a well-established, collaborative team. We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who can build positive working relationships. Given the nature of the role, some flexibility in working hours will be needed to accommodate the demands of laboratory and field activities.
Key responsibilities include the following:
Prepare and set up laboratory classes for assigned sessions, ensuring effective delivery of undergraduate teaching programs
Adhere to health and safety, legislative and compliance standards
Collect, prepare, and culture biological specimens as required
Assist with risk assessments associated with laboratory classes and/or field classes
Contribute to the development and support of continuous process improvement initiatives
Monitor the condition of laboratory equipment and facilities to ensure they are maintained in optimal working order
Provide both technical and administrative support for research activities
Maintain accurate inventories of equipment, reagents and supplies
Oversee various aspects of laboratory management and act as a laboratory manager
Participate in the school's outreach programs and open days
Ō pūmanawa - About you
The ideal candidate will:
have a postgraduate qualification in biological sciences
have an ecology and genetics background
be motivated to take on new challenges
have proven commitment to health and safety in the workplace.
Key requirements include the following:
Full New Zealand driver's licence
Willingness to assist with field collections as required (training provided)
Adaptability and a proactive, continuous learning attitude
Enthusiasm for taking on a variety of tasks and opportunities within an academic environment
Proficient in the use of technology
Organised and methodical approach to record keeping
Demonstrated knowledge of hazardous chemicals and laboratory management
Effective communicator with excellent verbal and written skills
Not essential but an advantage - experience with confocal and photomicroscope techniques.
Close date for vacancy: Sunday, 27 April 2025
Contact details for vacancy
If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Paul Fisher (paul.fisher@vuw.ac.nz).
All candidate CV's and cover letter's will be reviewed, however please note that we are not always able to respond to every expression of interest submitted.
Mō Te Herenga Waka - About our University
Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our University campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we've made here.
Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.
Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team
DiscoverTe Kura Mātauranga Koiora - School of Biological Sciences! Immerse yourself in innovative programs in biomedical science, biotechnology, and conservation biology. Collaborate with award-winning researchers driving breakthroughs in climate change and coral reef conservation. Be part of a vibrant community pushing the boundaries of biological sciences and making impactful discoveries!
Click "apply" and follow the process to enter your contact details, answer pre-screening questions, then attach a resume, cover letter, and any supporting documents.
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