Translational Research Scientist (Cell Therapy Manufacturing)

Job Title

Job Description

An exciting opportunity is available for a Translational Research Scientist (Cell Therapy Manufacturing) to join a dynamic research laboratory within the Personalised Oncology Division at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.

The Jenkins Laboratory is internationally recognised for pioneering research in immunotherapy for brain cancer. Led by Professor Misty Jenkins AO, the lab focuses on developing innovative CAR T cell therapies and other immune-based strategies for aggressive paediatric and adult brain tumours. We combine cutting-edge preclinical models, advanced single-cell and proteomic technologies, and state-of-the-art cell manufacturing platforms to translate discoveries from bench to bedside. Our team works collaboratively within the Brain Cancer Centre and across national and international consortia, driven by a strong consumer focus and commitment to bringing hope and new treatments to patients and families affected by brain cancer.

About the position

We have developed a number of assets that are now poised for clinical translation. This new role will establish and lead operations in WEHI’s ISO Class 9 clean room, forming a critical part of our translational pipeline for CAR T cell therapy in brain cancer. The cleanroom will be central to validating clinical scale manufacture and producing cells for preclinical testing. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an agile CAR T manufacturing pipeline within a dynamic preclinical team in a world-leading research institute.

The successful candidate will:

• Demonstrate an ability to perform highly technical laboratory work with strong attention to detail, accuracy, and reproducibility.

• Establish and lead CAR T cell manufacture using the Miltenyi Prodigy platform.

• Perform magnetic enrichment, viral transduction, and cell culture using clinical scale processes.

• Develop and implement GMP-‘aligned’ workflows and batch release testing.

• Collaborate with process development teams.

• Contribute to data packages for regulatory submissions (TGA, FDA and others) for clinical trial applications.

• Lead technology transfer activities between WEHI and collaborator or clinical manufacturing sites.

• Produce reports and presentations to support experimental outcomes.

• This role offers flexible working hours, with occasional after-hours work to support key experiments and clean room activities.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential:

• Demonstrated expertise in cell culture and advanced cell therapy workflows.

• Excellent organisational, documentation and communication skills.

• Excellent collaborative culture and be able to work effectively as a part of the dynamic research team – be reliable and approachable with excellent communication skills.

• Knowledge of clean room operations including gowning, decontamination and environmental monitoring.

• Knowledge of regulations relevant to GMP cell manufacturing.

• PhD or equivalent research/industry experience in cell therapy, immunology, biomedical science or related discipline.

Desirable:

• Experience generating, characterising and testing CAR T cells.

• Expertise in Flow cytometry and/or digital PCR.

• Graduate certificate, or equivalent, in Good Manufacturing Practice.

• Experience with closed-system manufacturing platforms (e.g. Miltenyi Prodigy).

• Knowledge of quality systems, QC assays and batch release criteria.

• Experience working in GMP-aligned clean room facilities.

• Ability to work collaboratively across research and clinical environments.

Terms of appointment

This position is available for 2 years in a full time capacity. Salary is Research Employee Level A ($104,071-$111,707) or Level B ($117,596 - $139,636) . Very attractive salary packaging options are available for general living expenses, meal entertainment, novated leasing and more. 12% superannuation payable, plus up to a further 5% after the first 6 months of service via our matching superannuation scheme. 

General enquiries can be directed to Professor Misty Jenkins AO – [email protected]

A position description for a Research Officer is available here.

A position description for a Senior Research Officer is available here.

How to apply

Please apply by uploading your CV, cover letter and a document addressing the key selection criteria in pdf format.

Application closing date:  25 June 2026