Laboratory Scientist

About Preciselee

Preciselee is a specialist medical laboratory focused on clinical genetic testing services, aiming to identify actionable genetic risks early in patients. We are building an innovative genetic laboratory and are looking for a Laboratory Scientist to join our team in Sydney on a 12-month fixed-term contract, with potential for extension based on business needs and performance. This role offers a broad, hands-on experience across the entire genetic testing pathway, rather than a narrow focus within large labs.

Key Responsibilities

• Handling routine enquiries from patients, clinicians, and referring practices
• Coordinating test requests, sample collection kits, specimens, and related documentation
• Receiving and assessing clinical specimens and accessioning samples
• Identifying issues with specimens or request forms and coordinating resolutions
• Conducting DNA extraction, quantification, and quality checks
• Performing molecular laboratory procedures using validated methods
• Reviewing laboratory quality control and sequencing quality metrics
• Analyzing genomic data with validated pipelines and software
• Annotating and evaluating genetic variants following established protocols
• Consulting scientific literature, population and clinical databases for evidence
• Preparing summaries of evidence and preliminary variant classifications
• Drafting clinical laboratory reports for Genetic Pathologist review and authorization
• Maintaining laboratory equipment, reagents, consumables, and inventory
• Completing records related to equipment, maintenance, quality control, and temperature data
• Assisting in assay validation and verification processes
• Contributing to quality improvement activities and non-conformance investigations
• Helping review and refine standard operating procedures, forms, and workflows
• Supporting daily laboratory operations and maintenance

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or higher in medical science, laboratory medicine, molecular biology, genetics, genomics, or related fields
• Experience in diagnostic, clinical, molecular, or genomic laboratory settings
• Good understanding of molecular genetics and human genetic variation
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills
• Heavy attention to detail with dedication to accuracy and timely completion of work
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and complete them independently within guidelines
• Adaptability and willingness to contribute across several laboratory functions
• Sound judgment to recognize and escalate complex or unusual issues

Desirable Experience

• Performing DNA extraction from saliva, blood, and other clinical samples
• Experience with human molecular genetics or genomic testing including carrier screening and inherited disease diagnostics
• Proficiency analyzing massively parallel sequencing (MPS) and Sanger sequencing data
• Knowledge of variant interpretation methods such as ACMG/AMP classification frameworks
• Familiarity with ISO 15189, NATA accreditation, and quality management systems
• Experience with laboratory validation, verification, and continuous quality improvements
• Scientific literature review, report writing, and critical evidence evaluation skills

Why Work With Us?

Joining Preciselee means you will participate in the entire genetic testing process from patient inquiries to final clinical reports. You will collaborate closely with an experienced Genetic Pathologist receiving mentoring and opportunities for growth. As a small specialized laboratory, your contributions will have a visible impact, with scope to influence operational improvements and shape laboratory development. This role is ideal for fast learners comfortable adapting within an evolving environment and who understand the importance of their work in patient care.

Remuneration

The salary ranges from $85,000 to $95,000 per year plus superannuation for full-time employees, with pro-rata adjustments for part-time positions, based on experience and qualifications.

Application Instructions

Please provide a CV along with a cover letter detailing your relevant laboratory and genomic experience, your skills in genomic data analysis or variant interpretation, and your motivation for seeking a comprehensive laboratory role in a growing specialist facility. Applications from candidates at all experience levels are encouraged.