At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead bioinformatics workflows for metagenomics and microbiome testing in public health.
- Company: Join the University of Melbourne, a leader in education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, health programs, flexible work, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community with excellent career growth and inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health while advancing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in genomic data analysis and proficiency in programming languages like Python or R.
The predicted salary is between 85555 - 116094 $ per year.
Join to apply for the Bioinformatician (Metagenomics) role at University of Melbourne.
Base pay range: A$85,555.00/yr - A$116,094.00/yr
Role type: Full-time; Fixed-term for 2 years
Faculty: Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
Department: Microbiology and Immunology
Salary: Level A - A$85,555 - A$116,094 per annum (pro rata for part-time)
Translate metagenomics to public health / Work with cutting-edge genomic technologies / Join a leading microbiology team.
Your next career opportunity:
As an Academic Specialist in Bioinformatics at the Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory (MDU PHL), you'll lead the development of bioinformatics workflows for metagenomics and microbiome testing. You'll translate cutting-edge technologies from research settings into robust clinical applications, working closely with the MDU Genomics team and Metagenomics working group. This role offers you the chance to make a significant impact on public health microbiology while advancing your skills in a supportive, innovative environment.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Develop Bioinformatics Workflows: Create comprehensive, automated workflows for metagenomics and microbiome testing, ensuring they meet laboratory needs and NATA accreditation standards.
- Conduct Validation Studies: Plan and execute validation studies to optimise metagenomics and microbiome testing performance, analysing and documenting results to NATA/ISO specifications.
- Contribute to Research: Participate in translational research projects in microbiome and metagenomics fields, particularly as applied to public health.
- Collaborate and Communicate: Work closely with the MDU Genomics team and Metagenomics Working Group, presenting findings and contributing to discussions.
You may be a great fit if:
- You are a skilled bioinformatician with experience in genomic sequence data analysis, proficiency in workflow languages, and a strong interest in microbial genomics and public health, ready to work in a service-oriented environment.
- You may also have a Masters or equivalent qualification in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field.
- Possess demonstrable experience with genome sequence data, bioinformatics tools, and large genome datasets.
- Be proficient in a workflow system such as Nextflow or Snakemake.
- Have verifiable experience with programming languages like Python or R.
- Demonstrate excellent troubleshooting skills and the ability to work in a UNIX environment.
- Have strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
What we offer you:
- Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being.
- Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance.
- Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance.
- Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program.
- Comprehensive career development and training, plus a 25% discount on UniMelb graduate courses for your immediate family members!
Your new team - School of Biomedical Sciences:
As part of the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences since 2015, the School comprises three Departments, Departments of Anatomy and Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, and Microbiology and Immunology. It has 85 research groups across the three departments, awarding-winning teachers and more than 2500 equivalent full-time student enrolments each year.
Department of Microbiology and Immunology:
The Department of Microbiology & Immunology is one of the departments within the School of Biomedical Sciences in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences.
Be Yourself:
The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have the opportunity to thrive regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, age, being a parent or having caring responsibilities.
The University of Melbourne is committed to fostering a barrier-free and inclusive recruitment process. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates throughout the application and interview stages, including accessible document formats and alternative application methods.
For further information, including our 2023-2027 Indigenous strategy please visit our website.
Working at the University - what you need to know:
This role requires the successful candidate to maintain a Working with Children Check. The successful candidate can apply for the WWCC as part of the onboarding process.
Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires current valid work rights for Australia.
Join Us and unlock your career potential! Is this the perfect opportunity for you? Apply today!
Applications close: Thursday 11 September 2025 11:55 PM Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) / Melbourne time zone.
Bioinformatician (Metagenomics) in Melbourne employer: University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional growth and well-being. As part of our Early Childhood Education Services team, you will enjoy generous benefits such as 17% superannuation, flexible work arrangements, and access to tailored career development programs, all while contributing to the transformative impact of education in a supportive university environment.
