Staff Scientist - RNA Platform

E te kaikimi mahi, tēnā koe,

Are you a highly driven researcher with a passion for molecular biology? Do you belong in a leading research institute that houses cutting-edge technology? If this sounds like you, keep reading about our exciting Staff Scientist position.

The Malaghan Institute of Medical Research is New Zealand’s leading independent biomedical research institute, with a focus on breakthrough discoveries in immunology and immunotherapy. We have over 150 staff committed to finding cures for diseases using the body’s own immune system. 

Our busy RNA Platform Laboratory supports the Institute’s scientific projects, ranging from immune cell biology, parasitology, vaccine therapies through to CAR T-cell research as well as external research projects funded through the platform from across New Zealand. We provide a key service to RNA researchers NZ wide and are seeking a driven, dedicated, and high-performing staff scientist to join our Team. In this role, you will provide support to our RNA Platform by routinely carrying out small and medium scale RNA synthesis, overseeing maintenance and quality control procedures on instruments involved in mRNA production & organising the RNA workspace including weekly cleaning duties, tracking reagents and ordering supplies.

This exciting opportunity would suit a BSc graduate with molecular biology knowledge or  experience, ideally in a research setting. Our successful candidate will be driven , demonstrate scrupulous attention to detail, and will communicate effectively within their friendly and collaborative team.

This is a full-time position for an initial fixed term of 12 months.

Ngā pūkenga | Experience and Skills:

• BSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry or similar.


• Laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques such as primer design and PCR, nucleic acid purification and extraction, gel electrophoresis, bacterial culturing and setting up enzymatic reactions.


• Proficient in method development, assay validation and record-keeping.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work well as part of a team.


• Experience analysing and communicating scientific results.


• Excellent organisation skills to maintain the RNA workspace including weekly cleaning duties, tracking reagents and ordering supplies.  

Ngā Ahuatanga | Desired traits:

• Hard-working, a true passion for research.


• Cooperative and friendly team member.


• Clear communicator, both written and oral.


• Detail-focussed, including careful record keeping.

Ngā Kawenga | Key Responsibilities:

• Routinely carrying out small and medium scale RNA synthesis and encapsulation, and accurately assessing the quality of each batch.


• Perform maintenance and quality control procedures for molecular biology instruments including those involved in mRNA/LNP production, quantification and purification as required.


• Organise and maintain the RNA workspace including weekly cleaning duties, tracking reagents and ordering supplies.


• Support the design, engineering and production of DNA plasmid constructs suitable for downstream mRNA production.


• Maintain accurate records, quality control documents, write SOPs and report scientific data in oral and written form when required.


• Be an active member of the RNA Platform community, contributing to scientific publications and providing support and cover to team members as required to meet project deadlines


• At supervisor’s discretion, work on various projects to extend the services and improve the products the RNA platform can offer to both internal and external clients.

Ngā Painga | Benefits:

• Opportunity to contribute to a ground-breaking and life-saving project.


• A supportive team culture.


• Exposure to a unique research environment working with highly driven scientists and support staff.


• Training and development opportunities to support you in your career with us, with potential for career progression.


• Employee Assistance Programme – confidential, professional services which can support and guide you through your personal or work challenges.


• An excellent location, with great offices at Victoria University in Kelburn offering a great choice of cafes and other amenities.


• Base salary from $72,000.00 per annum depending on experience.

The Malaghan Institute is also an equal opportunity employer, and values diversity alongside being committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Vision Mātauranga. We support Māori health advancement in partnership with Te Urungi Māori, the Institute’s Māori advisory group, we therefore welcome Māori applicants for this role. 

 Me Pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:

If you think you would be a great asset to our high-performing RNA Platform, apply now, by sending both your Cover Letter and CV. Applications close Friday 13 March for a start date as soon as possible. Interviews may be held immediately should the right candidates apply, so don’t wait, tone inaianei!

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.