Research Associate or Lab Technician Scentian Bio location Auckland. $60,000 – $80,000 per year.

We are expanding our team and looking for a research associate/lab technician to join one of New Zealand's most exciting start-ups. Scentian Bio is a biosensor company that is developing a world-leading bioelectronic nose/tongue platform based on the extraordinary sensitivity of insect smell receptors. This will revolutionise everything from medical diagnostics to food quality, environmental monitoring and crop management. We have recently secured funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop a diagnostic tool for the detection of diseases such as Tuberculosis and Malaria.

We are now looking to recruit a research associate/lab technician to join our amazing team designing next generation biosensors utilising insect odorant receptors for volatile organic chemical (VOC) sensing. The successful candidate will be crucial for the production and development of proteins to probe the molecular mechanism of these ligand-gated ion channels. In addition to a competitive salary, this is an opportunity to play a key role in the development of the technology. The position is based in Auckland, New Zealand.

The role contribute your insights and expertise to help us take our cutting-edge technology from the lab to the real world and transform our prototype biosensor into a product. Produce protein and integrate into the formats required for our sensor technologies. Assist with lab maintenance and management as required. Work closely with our CSO to develop and validate a range of ion channel assays for biosensor applications. Work with our Data scientists to interpret and analyse data from a variety of biosensor platforms including planar lipid bilayer and droplet interface bilayer systems.

Basic requirements a postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in molecular biology, cell biology, neurobiology, medicine or a relatable subject is essential. Experience with basic molecular biology techniques such as, PCR, cloning, cell biology, protein production and purification is essential.

Experience with ion channel electrophysiology in artificial lipid bilayer systems or cell based systems would be advantageous. Rigorous scientific aptitude, enthusiasm for learning, and a desire to solve complex problems independently and in a collaborative environment. Strong oral and written communication skills.