Scientific Officer | Genetics

Mō te tūnga | About the role

We are looking for a friendly and enthusiastic Scientific Officer to join the Genetics Department which is part of Canterbury Health Laboratories (www.chl.co.nz).

Canterbury Health Laboratories is a tertiary level facility providing core laboratory services and a comprehensive range of specialist testing. The genetics department offers an extensive test portfolio for a wide range of clinical applications including single gene and mitochondrial disorders, pre-implantation and prenatal diagnosis and molecular oncology/haematology.  Methods used include classical cytogenetics techniques, chromosomal microarray, Sanger sequencing, quantitative nucleic acid analysis and massively parallel sequencing.

This is a permanent, full-time position in a busy laboratory providing diagnostic testing nationally and internationally. The vacancy is for 40 hours per week, working Monday to Friday. The exact focus and responsibilities of the incoming staff member will depend on the qualifications and experience they bring to the team.

This role is available due to the retirement of a highly experienced scientific officer and is occurring at a time when our diagnostic genetic service is rapidly evolving. We are therefore seeking someone who embraces change and is not afraid of setting big goals and committing fully to them. The role would suit a motivated scientist who has a relevant postgraduate qualification and at least 3 years’ experience working in a diagnostic genetics laboratory. Experience in variant curation, test development, project management and training/mentoring others would be an advantage. An understanding of bioinformatics would also be beneficial but is not essential.

 Ko wai koe | About You

You will be a highly motivated team player with excellent interpersonal skills and able to work as part of a team as well as independently. In addition, you will be organised and efficient with effective time management skills.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

This role requires the following:

• A postgraduate qualification in molecular diagnostics/genetics or a related subject.
• Registration (or eligibility for registration) with the New Zealand Medical Sciences Council.
• Theoretical and technical knowledge of diagnostic genomics and laboratory medicine.
• Familiarity with molecular techniques and the ability to trouble-shoot issues.

Mō mātou | About Us

“Ko ngā tāngata, te mātua mahi - Putting people at the heart of all we do”

We are committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles by ensuring our partnership with Māori are at the forefront of all our conversations. We believe in improving, promoting, and protecting the health and well-being of the Canterbury and the West Coast community.

The culture at Te Whatu Ora [Health NZ] Waitaha Canterbury, is driven by our ā Mātou Uara (Our Value​​​​​​​s):

• Care and respect for others - Manaaki me te whakaute i te tangata.
• Integrity in all we do - Hāpai i ā mātou mahi katoa i runga i te pono.
• Responsibility for outcomes - Te Takohanga i ngā hua

Ngā hua | Benefits of working at Te Whatu Ora [Health NZ]

When you work at the Te Whatu Ora [Health NZ], you are part of a wider whānau that will support you along your journey. We offer great coaching, mentoring and learning outcomes for all staff. We are always improving our facilities across all campuses and have amazing discounts from select retailers, restaurants and businesses. At Te Whatu Ora [Health NZ], you are part of something greater than yourself and encouraged to be your unique self

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

Only applications submitted via our career site will be accepted, therefore apply directly on our career site here. Contact us on kerri.mccarthy2@cdhb.health.nz for additional information.

We have a range of clinical and non-clinical roles at Te Whatu Ora [Health NZ] Waitaha Canterbury, there could be a place for you!

Please visit our careers website for other roles and find your ideal fit within the Te Whatu Ora [Health NZ] Waitaha Canterbury 

The Future of the Health Industry

It will be a condition of employment for this role that you are vaccinated against Covid-19. It is therefore a condition of this application that you are vaccinated against Covid-19. This vaccination requirement includes gaining Booster Dose.  As a person working in the health and disability sector you will come into contact with a large number of people, some of whom may be vulnerable.  Without a vaccine, there is the risk that you may contract Covid-19 or pass Covid-19 to other staff. This can place an increased burden on our healthcare system.  The requirement to be vaccinated is to keep you safe and also to endeavour to protect others against the potential transmission of Covid-19 as a result of you contracting it in the course of your employment.

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!