The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has an exciting prospect for people interested to develop their skills in gene technology regulation. The successful applicants for these roles will be required to evaluate applications to work with genetically modified organisms (GMOs), both in containment and for environmental release. They will also be required to evaluate applications for certification of facilities to contain work with GMOs.

The scientific evaluators need to apply expert knowledge, skills and experience to provide good quality advice to the Gene Technology Regulator. They will also display initiative and undertake sound decision making when exercising delegations and engage in complex problem solving in addressing technical and operational complexities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing scientific support to the Gene Technology Regulator, including technical aspects of applications for work involving gene technology.

• Conducting evaluations of applications for activities with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and for certification of laboratories.

• Preparing documents, including minutes, biology documents, reports, guidelines, and technical and general correspondence.

• Undertaking research or other project work on topics relevant to gene technology regulation.

• Liaising with other OGTR staff and external stakeholders, including scientific committee members, government agencies, representatives of research institutions and industry, and members of the public.

• Providing support for the ongoing operation and enhancement of the regulatory system for gene technology.

• Representing the OGTR at meetings, conferences, or other forums, as required.

Mandatory requirements:

• A tertiary degree in molecular biology, plant science, microbiology, biotechnology, virology, biochemistry, genetics,



toxicology, medical science or other life science from an Australian tertiary institute or equivalent overseas qualification.

Desirable qualifications and experience:

• Post-graduate degree in molecular biology, plant science, microbiology, biotechnology, virology, biochemistry, genetics, toxicology, medical science or other life science.

• Extensive research experience and/or experience in risk assessment.

The key duties of the position include:

The ideal candidate will have:

• Demonstrated technical knowledge, skills and experience in molecular biology, plant science, microbiology, biotechnology, virology, biochemistry, genetics, toxicology, medical science or other life science.

• Excellent written communication skills, in particular the ability to write clearly and concisely about complex and technical matters for a varied audience.

• Strong research and critical thinking skills, in particular the ability to analyse technical information to identify problems.

• Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines.

• Well-developed liaison, interpersonal and oral communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team as well as an individual.

Eligibility

To be eligible for employment with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, applicants must be an Australian citizen at the time an offer of employment is made.





An applicant’s suitability for employment with Health will also be assessed through a variety of pre-employment check processes, such as:

Satisfactory completion of a criminal history check, and where relevant, a Working with Children and Vulnerable People Check,

Completion of a medical declaration and pre-employment medical (where required),

Providing evidence of qualifications (where required), and

Obtaining and maintaining a security clearance at the required level.

Notes

Applications close 11:30pm AEST.

Applicants are asked to quote reference number 26-OGTROGTRDIV-31505 to assist when making an enquiry.

This recruitment process is being used to fill both ongoing and non-ongoing positions. Non-ongoing positions will be offered on a specified term basis for an initial period of up to 12 months with the possibility of being extended (this will not exceed a total of 24 months in the same or similar role).

Getting to know the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is focused on achieving better health and wellbeing for all Australians. If you would like to join our team, and can meet our job requirements, we invite you to apply for a position with us to build better health, better care and better quality for all Australians. The department is committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where the experiences, skills and perspectives of all individuals are valued. We actively encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and cultures, so we can better represent the community we serve. The department welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, mature age people, people who identify as LGBTI+, and people with parenting and/or caring responsibilities.

📌 Scientific Evaluator (Canberra)
🏢 Australian Department of Health Disability & Ageing
📍 Canberra