Company Description
Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading University. With over 6000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, we are one of NZ’s largest employers. We have eight academic faculties and 11 service divisions creating a diverse, dynamic and complex organisational culture that demands excellence.
Our lecturers and health researchers are regarded as experts in their fields, frequently directing global research projects designed to better the lives of New Zealanders and the world, and in turn passing this knowledge on to our students.
Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team
The Precision Medicine Initiative (PMI) makes precision medicine practice and research an active part of the Auckland Academic Health Alliance, bringing immediate benefits to current patients through clinical genomics and future advancements through translational research and the development of innovative genomics tests. This programme exemplifies national leadership, an equity focus, and a by-New-Zealand-for-New-Zealand approach to clinical genomics.

Job Description
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
The Precision Medicine Initiative (PMI) is seeking an experienced Variant Curator for a 2-year fixed term role to play a pivotal part in advancing personalised medicine. Hosted by the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences (FMHS) and working alongside the University of Auckland’s Grafton Clinical Genomics, the role partners with stakeholders across the Auckland Academic Health Alliance to drive innovative approaches in genomics and clinical genetics.
As a Variant Curator, you will bring in-depth expertise in annotating and interpreting both somatic (cancer-related) and germline (inherited) genetic variants, leveraging international standards and contemporary variant databases. Your specialised knowledge in genomics, and clinical genetics will support our efforts, where variant curation directly impacts the quality of patient care and clinical outcomes.
Working within a multidisciplinary team, you will:

• Annotate and Interpret Variants: Employ advanced tools and databases to provide detailed variant analysis.
• Advance Germline and somatic Capabilities: Contribute to projects aimed at expanding genetic testing protocols, ensuring best practices in variant analysis.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams: Engage with scientist, geneticists, oncologists, and pathologists to discuss findings and guide clinical interpretations.
• Ensure Quality and Compliance: Work alongside GCG to uphold regulatory standards (ISO15189) and mentor staff in best practices.
• Participate in Molecular Tumour Boards: Contribute to case discussions, presenting findings that directly inform patient management.

This is a fulltime (37.5 hours per week), fixed term (24 months) position. The salary range for this role is between $107,500 - $132,700 dependent on skills and experience.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Position Description.

Qualifications
He kōrero mōu | About you

This role calls for a candidate with a postgraduate qualification in genomics, molecular biology, or a related field, ideally with registration as a Medical Laboratory Scientist and clinical laboratory experience. You will serve as a technical expert, helping shape the future of precision medicine and enhance the credibility of our laboratory findings through variant curation and compliance.

Knowledge and Skills

• Masters, Ph D or relevant qualification in genomics or similar field
• More than 5 years of experience in variant curation
• Experience working in or alongside a clinical laboratory setting.
• In-depth knowledge of genomics.
• Experience drafting and implementing SOPs.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Familiarity with both somatic and germline genetic testing and the guidelines that this testing follows
• Ability to function as a member of a team as well as independently.
• Ability to network and raise profile of research and clinical work in this area.

Additional Information
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services.
For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 17 November 2024 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.
Please reach out to Wesley Larkan, via wesley.larkan@auckland.ac.nz, for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.
Equity
The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpui MVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz
The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz