Senior Scientistat Ministry for Primary Industries98,955 - 115,691

• Permanent, full
• timeLocation: WellingtonSalary band & range: General Salay Range D: $98,955
• $115,691 depending on skills and experience About the Role
• Kōrero mō te Tūranga We are looking for a Senior Scientist with expertise in genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, who is enthusiastic about protecting New Zealand's primary industries in addition to its native animals.

This position is based in the Genomics team within New Zealand's National Animal Health Laboratory in Wallaceville, Upper Hutt.The Senior Scientist role will have a focus on providing expertise to support generation, analysis, and interpretation of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data through development and implementation of infrastructure, processes, and tools.

They will be confident to train and mentor others in the laboratory procedures for sequencing, data processing methods, and in bioinformatic analysis.The successful candidate will work in a dynamic environment where work flexibility is required to respond to the changing needs of the MPI, performing tasks as reasonably required.Key responsibilities include:Enhance MPI's capability and use of NGS technology and bioinformatics through:Implementing innovative concepts, tools and techniques related to the analysis, integration, and processing of high-throughput NGS data.Providing analysis and interpretation of NGS data generated both internally and externally.Proactively working with others to maximize the benefits of the technologyPublishing high quality peer reviewed scientific, technical and policy papersContributing to public databases i.e.

NCBI, GISAIDMaintaining, developing, and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders in New Zealand and internationally, including industry, Māori, government, and non-government agencies to support our goals.Increasing MPIs knowledge of new science, technologies, and innovations through developing and maintaining relationships with key science and technology providers.Implementing new technologies, training, and mentoring laboratory staff, participating in biosecurity investigations & collaborating with scientists both nationally and internationally.

• Mōu We are seeking an initiative-taking individual with a PhD in genetics/molecular biology and a high level of NGS understanding and experience.

• Mō tō mātou RōpūThe genomics team currently comprises 6 people with a broad depth of experience in genomics, bioinformatics and molecular biology, we work collaboratively with other disciplinary teams on aquatic and terrestrial animal pathogens at the Animal Health Laboratory to provide accurate and timely diagnostics crucial to biosecurity.

• Mō te Manatū Ahu Our role includes seizing export opportunities for our food and fibre sector, improving sector productivity, ensuring the food we produce is safe, increasing sustainable resource use, and protecting New Zealand from biological risk.

• Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu MatuaBi-annual paid eye test and contribution to the costs of corrective lenses/framesStudy assistance may be availableProfessional membership reimbursementLow level Security Clearancemost preferably a New Zealand citizen, who has resided continuously in New Zealand for at least the last five (5) years, ORis a citizen of, and/or has resided continuously in one or more of the following countries for the last five (5) years: either Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom (UK) or the United States of America (USA); and has a background history that is verifiable and can be assessed as appropriate by the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) towards a recommendation of suitability for a security clearance at this level.click here to find out more about the national security vetting process and access the eligibility self-check tool.If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we will not be able to accept your application.

• Whakamātau Whakapōauau me te Waipiro Please note, given this position is safety sensitive the preferred candidates(s) for the position will be required to undergo a drug and alcohol pre-employment screening test.

• Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake?

We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities.

As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.To view the position description and/or apply online, please click APPLY FOR THIS JOB or visit the MPI Careers Site.

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