WIMR is one of Australia’s leading medical research institutes located at the heart of the Westmead Health Precinct, designated as the lighthouse precinct for Biomedical technology by the NSW Government.  WIMR is an independent medical research institute governed by a Board. It is a multi-disciplinary institute with research in:

• Infection and Immunity
• Cancer
• Liver and Metabolic
• Neuroscience and Vision
• Cardiorespiratory

Closely affiliated with the University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, the Institute’s research extends from the laboratory to the patient using the basic tools of molecular and cell biology, genetic epidemiology, imaging technology and clinical research. 

Biomedical research in the Institute extends into clinical research programs across a wide range of disciplines which may interface with the many clinical trials in progress at any one time. This “bench to bedside” approach enables greater translation of research from biomedical discovery to the development of new prevention strategies, diagnostics and more effective treatments.

The role will play an integral part in leading the Centre’s push towards clinical translation using pre-clinical models. The broad goals of this program are to translate basic science into therapeutic options for patients with heart disease.

The major focus of this position is to help support the research programs using small and large animal models to understand the safety and efficacy of novel cell and gene therapy approaches for heart disease.

To work closely with Chief Investigators within the Centre for Heart Research and other scientific staff of the Centre to perform research animal procedures under limited supervision and to provide a broad cross-section of laboratory support. 

Major Responsibilities

• To provide supervision, in consultation with the Chief Investigators, for the daily care and treatment regimens for large and small animals.
• In consultation with the Chief Investigators, provide oversight and ensure the pre and post-operative care of large and small animals.
• To provide anaesthetic services during animal procedures including pre and post anaesthetic care.
• To provide surgical assistance as required at all small and large animal procedures.
• Ensure extensive daily maintenance of record keeping and data management.
• Provide veterinary advice on any issues of animal health and standards of care as required to ensure the utmost ethical care of all animals under research projects.
• Assisting the Chief Investigators to write, review and submit animal ethics applications, modifications, yearly returns and final reports.
• To assist in writing and submitting research grant proposals, journal articles and conference abstract submissions.
• Ensure the preparation of anaesthetic and other equipment for all procedures.
• Ensure preparation and sterilisation of equipment for all surgical procedures.
• Various laboratory tasks as required ensuring the smooth running of the research projects.
• Contribute to the cohesive laboratory environment including attendance and scheduling of meetings/events including representation of the Centre at user group meetings.
• Strive to obtain objectives and performance measures set for the role. Participate positively in performance and development reviews.

Other duties as assigned:

• Assist in operational activities necessary for laboratory maintenance (e.g. ordering of drugs/reagents, maintenance of databases).
• Performs work activities relevant to the role’s key accountabilities as approved by the Chief Investigators
• Assist with supervision and training of students and new staff within the Centre

To be successful in this role you must have the following:

Experience

• Bachelor or Doctor of Veterinary Science (BVSc, DVM), BSc (Ag), BSA, or equivalent tertiary qualifications.
• Experience with large and small animal daily care/husbandry/training with appropriate qualification and breeding management for research programs and the associated record keeping including ethical oversight of research projects is highly desirable.
• Experience in large and small animal surgery, anaesthesia and pre and post-operative care is highly desirable.
• Experience in a GLP or GCLP environment is highly advantageous

Skills/Knowledge

• Good knowledge of research protocols and demonstrable competence with laboratory techniques
• Competently skilled with using Microsoft Office.
• Good time management skills.
• Good understanding of laboratory safety work practice.
• Understanding of laboratory safety including universal precautions and aseptic technique.
• Understanding of surgical gowning and scrubbing.
• Pre and Postoperative care of anaesthetised animals including venesection, IV, IM and SC injections.
• Maintain a safe work environment.

Behaviours/Attributes

• Ability to manage time effectively and efficiently to meet deadlines
• Capability to take initiative in performing tasks as described above.
• Able to work with other staff, students and affiliates to conduct research projects.
• Strong interest in learning new skills.

Why Should you work with WIMR?

• Be part of an organisation that has a strong foundation of encouraging curious, solution focused thinking and collaboration
• The incredible pride that comes with supporting a team who are literally striving to change the world and save lives
• Beautiful building incorporating professional cafe, bike storage facilities, showering facilities, world class equipment and facilities
• Hybrid work arrangements
• Close to public transport / on-site parking
• NFP ability to salary sacrifice for tax benefits
• Option for novated leasing
• Paid parental leave program
• Access to employee assistance program