Translational Research Scientist (Cell Therapy Manufacturing …, Parkville

**Job Title**

Translational Research Scientist (Cell Therapy Manufacturing)

An exciting opportunity is available for a Translational Research Scientist (Cell Therapy Manufacturing) to join a dynamic research laboratory within the Personalised Oncology Division at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.

The Jenkins Laboratory is internationally recognised for pioneering research in immunotherapy for brain cancer. Led by Professor Misty Jenkins AO, the lab focuses on developing cutting-edge CAR T cell therapies and other immune-based strategies for aggressive paediatric and adult brain tumours. We combine cutting-edge preclinical models, advanced single-cell and proteomic technologies, and state-of-the-art cell manufacturing platforms to translate discoveries from bench to bedside. Our team works collaboratively within the Brain Cancer Centre and across national and international consortia, driven by a strong consumer focus and commitment to bringing hope and new treatments to patients and families affected by brain cancer.

**About the position**

We have developed a number of assets that are now poised for clinical translation. This new role will establish and lead operations in WEHI’s ISO Class 9 clean room, forming a critical part of our translational pipeline for CAR T cell therapy in brain cancer. The cleanroom will be central to validating clinical scale manufacture and producing cells for preclinical testing. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an agile CAR T manufacturing pipeline within a dynamic preclinical team in a world-leading research institute.
- Demonstrate an ability to perform highly technical laboratory work with strong attention to detail, accuracy, and reproducibility.
- Establish and lead CAR T cell manufacture using the Miltenyi Prodigy platform.
- Perform magnetic enrichment, viral transduction, and cell culture using clinical scale processes.
- Develop and implement GMP-‘aligned’ workflows and batch release testing.
- Collaborate with process development teams.- Lead technology transfer activities between WEHI and collaborator or clinical manufacturing sites.
- Produce reports and presentations to support experimental outcomes.
- This role offers flexible working hours, with occasional after-hours work to support key experiments and clean room activities.

**Key Selection Criteria**

Essential:

- Demonstrated expertise in cell culture and advanced cell therapy workflows.
- Excellent organisational, documentation and communication skills.
- Excellent collaborative culture and be able to work effectively as a part of the dynamic research team
- be reliable and approachable with excellent communication skills.
- Knowledge of clean room operations including gowning, decontamination and environmental monitoring.
- Knowledge of regulations relevant to GMP cell manufacturing.
- PhD or equivalent research/industry experience in cell therapy, immunology, biomedical science or related discipline.

Desirable:

- Experience generating, characterising and testing CAR T cells.
- Expertise in Flow cytometry and/or digital PCR.
- Graduate certificate, or equivalent, in Good Manufacturing Practice.
- Experience with closed-system manufacturing platforms (e.g. Miltenyi Prodigy).
- Knowledge of quality systems, QC assays and batch release criteria.
- Experience working in GMP-aligned clean room facilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively across research and clinical environments.

**Terms of appointment**

This position is available for **2 years** in a **full time** capacity. Salary is **Research Employee Level A** **($104,071-$111,707)** or **Level B ($117,596
- $139,636)**. Very attractive salary packaging options are available for general living expenses, meal entertainment, novated leasing and more. 12% superannuation payable, plus up to a further 5% after the first 6 months of service via our matching superannuation scheme.

A position description for a Research Officer is available here.

A position description for a Senior Research Officer is available here.

**How to apply**

**Application closing date**:25 June 2026 Apply on Kit Job: kitjobau.com/job/3qmfg8