Medical Laboratory Scientist Dunedin

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Fixed-Term 0.8 FTE

The Company

Globally, bladder cancer is the 6th most common cancer among men and the 10th most common overall. It has the highest recurrence rate of any cancer, with approximately 80% of bladder cancer patients experiencing recurrence of the disease after tumour removal, leading to regular surveillance of the patient and making bladder cancer the “highest lifetime cost” per patient of any cancer. This is a significant healthcare challenge, with over 550,000 active annual cases leading to more than 200,000 deaths per year. 

Pacific Edge, a global cancer diagnostics company headquartered in Dunedin, New Zealand, and with offices in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is guided by the mantra that no one should die from cancer and is on a mission to improve patient outcomes and their quality of life by developing and commercializing innovative diagnostic tests for the early detection and management of cancer. Pacific Edge has developed Cxbladder, the only non-invasive diagnostic test for the early detection and management of urothelial carcinoma (>90% of bladder cancers) that is reimbursed by CMS/ Medicare in the United States. While our near-term focus is on execution, i.e., growing Cxbladder adoption globally, Pacific Edge also continues to generate increasing clinical evidence to support that adoption through the largest program of clinical trials for bladder cancer biomarker tests in the world. Additionally, Cxbladder already has a significant presence in the USA and New Zealand, serviced by a commercial lab in each region. In New Zealand, the test is now available to over 75% of the population through regional public health contracts.

The position is based at its diagnostic laboratories in Dunedin, that are run by the subsidiary company, Pacific Edge Diagnostics New Zealand Limited. It is a 0.8 FTE (32 hours per week) fixed-term position. 

Pacific Edge is based in modern premises located on the Otago University campus.

The Person

Ideally, you will be a fully registered scientist with the Medical Sciences Council (MSC), have a current Annual Practicing Certificate and understand basic techniques, methods and protocols utilised within a molecular genetic laboratory. You will be motivated by and passionate about hands-on work, this is not a research-based role.

The Role

Performing RNA and DNA extractions; performing gene expression for specific biomarkers by RT-qPCR, performing absolute copy number quantification for DNA biomarkers utilising droplet digital PCR, using liquid handling robotics, clinical report preparation and results dissemination, and participating in quality assurance programmes. Routine laboratory cleaning and equipment maintenance are also key to the role.

You must be able to demonstrate a high level of professional laboratory skills, you will need to demonstrate good accuracy, time-management and attention to detail in a laboratory environment. 

There will be a period of training and familiarisation with Pacific Edge and the Cxbladder family of products. You will be required to demonstrate proficiency before being signed off to process clinical samples and have the support of an enthusiastic, engaged team in a collegial environment. 

Qualifications & Role Requirements

• A current medical laboratory science board practicing certificate 

• A high level of technical and manual laboratory skills

• An understanding of ISO 15189 and committed to complying with quality standards

• Ability to work methodically adhering to quality guidelines

• Strong level of computer literacy

• The ability to manage your own workload whilst working within a team as well as autonomously

• An organised and systematic approach to tasks and service delivery

• Support and promote the company’s commercial aims, objectives and mission

Why work with us

We pride ourselves on our diverse, inclusive and values-driven culture alongside our friendly environment, flexible work practices, and commitment to making sure that our staff are happy and healthy. You’ll be joining an engaged team who coordinate a range of regular events and activities through an active social committee.

This position is directed to New Zealand citizens, permanent residents and those with a current work permit for New Zealand. 

To apply please send your resume and covering letter to Recruitment@pelnz.com.