The laboratory has pioneered a mounting body of evidence that somatic mutations in “rogue clones” of B and/or T cells are a key step in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, allowing these cells to evade normal checkpoints that maintain self-tolerance. Until recently, technologies for identifying somatic mutations in single lymphocytes had limited accuracy and sensitivity, limiting the discovery of driver mutations to a subset of autoimmune diseases characterised by unusually large “rogue clones”. New single cell DNA and RNA sequencing technologies, coupled with fluorescent cell sorting and robotic processing of hundreds of lymphocytes, now make it possible to reveal the complete landscape of somatic mutations across the genome of very small clones of cells in blood or biopsy samples.
We are therefore looking to expand the program using these new technologies to a range of common “polyclonal” autoimmune diseases characterised by numerous small clones of B or T cells recognising the driver autoantigens in these diseases. This cellular and genomic work is paired with a clinical trials program that translates our findings into rationally designed clinical trials.
This role is being created within the Goodnow Lab at Garvan to lead projects and experimental work with single cell RNA and whole genome sequencing aimed at deepening our understanding of the role of somatic mutations in the pathogenesis of human autoimmune disease.
The role will work closely with an interdisciplinary team at Garvan, across Sydney, nationally and internationally comprising state-of-the-art core facilities for spectral flow cytometric sorting, single cell DNA/RNA library preparation and sequencing, computational analysis of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes, computational analysis of gene expression patterns, computational analysis of somatic mutations, synthesis and structural/immunochemical analysis of recombinant antibodies, and experts in the clinical evaluation and treatment of diverse autoimmune diseases.
Salary: Up to $128,000 + 14% super + salary packaging (depending on experience)
Employment Type: 2-year fixed-term contract with possibility to extend
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
This position will be responsible for providing direction and leadership in our immunogenomic program and undertaking primary research in laboratory immunology. This will include:
Undertaking and directing primary research on samples from patients with human autoimmune diseases. Key experimental platforms include spectral flow cytometry, single cell index sorting into 384 well plates, single cell RNAseq, single cell whole genome sequencing, histology, autoantibody expression and testing for self-reactivity.
Preparation of research proposals for competitive funding bodies, such as NHMRC, MRFF and NIH, as either lead or co-investigator.
Contributing to the growth and productivity of the lab by proposing, participating and overseeing the design, development and validation of new assays, and fostering collaborative efforts with other labs, organisations and companies.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
The key skills and experience of a Research Officer include:
Extensive experience in key methods including flow cytometry and analysis, cell sorting, single-cell sequencing, RNAseq, whole genome sequencing, PCR, in-vitro cell assays.
Garvan Institute of Medical Research is an independent Medical Research Institute (MRI) in Sydney, delivering scientific and clinical impact on a global basis and in partnership with organisations that share our vision. We are proud to be one of Australia’s largest and most highly regarded MRI’s.
Our vision is global leadership in discoveries to impact and our enduring purpose is to impact human health, by harnessing information encoded in our genome.
We seek to see our world-class discovery research achieve life-changing impacts, not only for individual patients with rare diseases, but for the many thousands affected by complex, common disease.
Garvan promotes a diverse workplace and is committed to the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. We are always looking for culture ‘add’, not culture ‘fit’ and are building diverse teams with great sets of complementary styles and skills to help deliver our important work effectively.
To apply for this position, please submit your application with a CV and cover letter as one document, stating why you are interested in this role. We are reviewing applications as they are received. If you think you’re the right person for this role, we’d love to hear how your capabilities, achievements and experience set you apart. Only applicants with full working rights in Australia are eligible to apply for this role.
