Company Description The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM) is a research institute focused on strengthening Australia’s health security and improving health outcomes for communities living in tropical regions worldwide. Based at James Cook University in Queensland, AITHM operates key nodes in Townsville, Cairns, and the Torres Strait. This geographic presence provides close engagement with clinicians and populations experiencing some of the most urgent health challenges in the Tropics. AITHM’s work spans laboratory research, translational studies, and collaboration with healthcare providers to inform evidence-based interventions. Team members benefit from working in a mission-driven environment that connects cutting-edge research with real-world impact. Role Description The Manager, Laboratory and Technical Services is a full-time, on-site role located in Cairns, QLD. This position oversees the daily operations of AITHM laboratories, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient technical services that support research activities.

Key responsibilities
include coordinating laboratory staff, managing equipment and consumables, maintaining quality assurance and safety protocols, and supporting the implementation of standard operating procedures. The role also involves working closely with researchers to align technical support with project requirements, monitoring budgets and resource utilization, and contributing to continuous improvement in laboratory processes.



The manager will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, provide training and mentoring for technical personnel, and ensure that laboratory facilities remain fit for purpose in a dynamic research setting. Qualifications
• Experience in laboratory management or coordination, including oversight of technical services and day-to-day operational support.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory safety, compliance, and quality assurance standards, with the ability to implement and monitor relevant policies and procedures.
• Skills in team leadership and staff supervision, including mentoring technical personnel and fostering a collaborative working environment.
• Capability in equipment and facility management, including scheduling maintenance, managing inventories, and ensuring reliable laboratory infrastructure.
• Competence in planning and resource management, including budgeting, procurement, and efficient allocation of laboratory resources.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work closely with researchers, clinicians, and administrative teams.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in a scientific or technical discipline (e.g., biomedical science, laboratory technology, or related field), or equivalent experience.
• Experience in research or academic settings, particularly in health or tropical medicine, is highly beneficial.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to respond to operational challenges in a fast-paced research environment.

📌 Manager, Laboratory And Technical Services (Cairns)
🏢 Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM)
📍 Cairns