An exciting opportunity to work for an innovative team that supports and enables cutting-edge synthetic biology research and translation.
Build networks and collaborate with industry leaders
Annual base salary from $102,136 to $112,741 per annum (Level 6) pro-rata, plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading (salary commensurate with experience)
Full-time, 2 years fixed term contract
Based on site at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
The Role
The Faculty of Science and Engineering is seeking an Analytical Technician to support the Analytical Chemistry and Synthetic Biology streams of the Australian Genome Foundry (AGF).
In this role you will be able to apply your scientific, technical and practical skills to a diverse range of projects. You will receive hands-on training in using chromatography/mass spectrometry instrumentation for the analysis of metabolites in complex sample matrices and in the use of high-throughput instrumentation for strain and metabolic engineering workflows.
Reporting to the Chief Scientist, you will:
Provide scientific and technical support for the analytical chemistry and synthetic biology teams
Perform practical work in the laboratory for AGF customers and research projects involving sample preparation, instrument analysis, data processing and reporting
Develop and enhance your skills in the development and validation of chromatography/mass spectrometry-based methods for the analysis of small molecules, drawing on the expertise of team members
Contribute to method development for high throughput workflows, for example, genomic modification, microbial transformation, multi-well plate culturing, liquid handling protocols, plasmid extraction
Support the AGF’s quality assurance activities by participating in instrument maintenance, developing and updating standard operating procedures and method protocols
Attend and present at technical conferences, workshops, meetings and interact with stakeholders
Foster and maintain an inclusive, high performing workplace environment that rewards new ideas, sets clear expectations, and addresses concerns quickly
Maintain high standards of data produced by AGF and comprehensive, up-to-date records
Build and maintain productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders and foster a positive, supportive and collaborative culture through actively engaging with AGF team members
About Us
Located at Macquarie University and within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the Australian Genome Foundry is a high-throughput strain engineering facility with modular robotic platforms capable of the construction and analysis of synthetic microbial strains using highly automated workflows. The AGF provides research support, expertise and services to the Australian and international research community across four streams: strain design and engineering, high-throughput fermentation, analytical chemistry and flow cytometry.
The AGF provides high quality synthetic biology and analytical chemistry services through multiple engagement models for both national and international academic and industry clients. The AGF has a mixed portfolio of activities including contract, collaborative, applied, and fundamental research, and technology development for industry, government and the research community. We are a rapidly expanding team of approximately 20 molecular biologists, analytical chemists, flow cytometry specialists, automation engineers, post-doctoral researchers, and operations staff. The AGF is supported by Bioplatforms Australia through funding from the Australian Government National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy, the NSW Government and Macquarie University.
About You
You are a chemistry, molecular/synthetic biology or engineering graduate with a desire to apply your skills and expertise to industry and academic research projects. You bring to the team hands-on experience in an experimental laboratory, an enthusiasm for paying close attention to critical details to produce high-quality work, excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills and a commitment to establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with a range of stakeholders.
To Apply
To be considered for this position, please apply online and attach your resume and a separate cover letter that outlines how you meet the selection criteria below:
Essential:
Bachelor degree in analytical chemistry, molecular/synthetic biology, engineering, metabolomics or a related discipline
Experience in sample preparation techniques and GC-MS and/or LC-MS analysis of small molecules in various sample matrices OR experience in working with bacterial, yeast and/or other microbiological samples for synthetic biology applications
Experience conducting a research project
Detail-oriented and a commitment to rigorous, reproducible science
Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to articulate and explain complex technical concepts or information effectively to a non-expert audience
Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with team members and a diverse range of stakeholders
Strong organisational and time management skills including the ability to prioritise workload to meet deadlines and project objectives
A demonstrated commitment to promoting and advancing the principles of equity, inclusion and diversity
Desirable:
Enquiries: Associate Professor Briardo Llorente, AGF Chief Scientist at [email protected]
Applications Close: 14 August 2026
***To be considered for this role, applicants must have full working rights in Australia and currently residing in Australia.
The Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University has a goal to increase the engagement of women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from diverse backgrounds in STEM roles. Applications are considered holistically, and candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience does not meet each individual selection criterion.
Why Join Us?
Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.
Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
17% Superannuation
Subsidised onsite parking options
Extensive training and professional development programs
Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
Onsite vacation care during school holidays
Discounted health insurance
Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics
Pre-Employment Checks
Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account.
Applications Close:
14/08/2026 11:59 PM
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University.
