At AgResearch, we take pride in empowering our people with the right tools and skills to enable, connect and align each member of our organisation to accomplishing our vision.

The role & opportunity

At AgResearch, our purpose is to use science to enhance the value, productivity, and profitability of New Zealand’s pastoral, agri-food, and agri-technology sector value chains to contribute to economic growth and beneficial environmental and social outcomes for New Zealand.  We are committed to the knowledge system of mātauranga Māori on equal footing with Western science and existing structures, that have helped support positive change in farming practices and food production in Aotearoa.

We are looking for a driven and enthusiastic proteomics scientist with proven expertise in mass spectrometry and an interest in agricultural samples (soil to plate) to join the Proteins & Metabolites team in Lincoln, New Zealand. The scientist will be performing a range of proteomics-based projects and is expected to perform challenging hands-on mass spectrometry work, including LC-MS maintenance and troubleshooting, but also bioinformatics analyses, result interpretation and science writing.

Job Title: Proteomics Scientist, Protein & Metabolites team
Location: Lincoln
Minimum and maximum base salary: $88,173 – $103,733
Minimum guaranteed hours work per week: 40
Days Required: Monday to Friday
Number of Positions: One
Employment Type: Permanent fulltime

What you will be doing

• Work across project teams and science teams to deliver proteomics and peptidomics research outcomes within allocated projects and aligned with research priorities.
• Develop, evaluate and test new proteomics workflows, including workflows for post-translational modifications (PTMs).
• Conceptualize, plan and execute all facets of proteomics and peptidomics experiments: from sample preparation through to data analysis and high-quality report writing.
• Streamline and optimise current proteomic workflows while exploring and developing new methodologies.
• Operate and maintain LC-MSMS equipment.
• Lead and contribute to funding proposals and peer-reviewed publications.
• Interact with internal and external stakeholders; understanding needs, communicating capabilities and results where opportunities align with team mission.

Required experience and qualifications

• Post-graduate qualification (PhD) in biology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry or similar.
• A strong background in protein science, proteomics and mass spectrometry.
• Proven hands-on experience in the operation and troubleshooting of nanoLC and HRMS instrumentation (e.g., Orbitrap, qTOF, IMS-TOF, etc.).
• Experience in analysing mass spectrometry and/or proteomics datasets.
• You use innovative and integrative thinking to develop, conceptualise, and analyse new methods and ideas
• You have excellent communication, time-management, and organisational skills
• A ‘can do’ attitude to complex problem solving
• A track record of high-quality peer-reviewed publications.

Preferred capabilities and experience

• Postdoctoral experience is an advantage.
• Experience in the analysis of complex protein data using commercial and/or open-source software - including DIA-NN, Peaks Online, Spectronaut and R-studio.
• Experience in proteogenomics and immunopeptidomics.

We encourage applications from candidates with an understanding of or a willingness to develop their capability in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga Māori, and/or te reo Māori.

Our Benefits 

AgResearch provide a diverse range of benefits including extensive flexible working options that help employees balance their own lifestyle and needs with their work commitments. You can view the full list here: http://www.agresearchcareers.co.nz/working-here/our-benefits/. 

How to apply 

This role will suit a passionate, talented, and collaborative person who is motivated to drive their career forward within this vital New Zealand organisation. If this sounds like you, apply today using the link, including a cover letter detailing your motivation for applying, your relevant skills and experience, and why you believe that you are a good fit for our role.

For further information contact Evelyne Maes, Proteins & Metabolites Team Leader at evelyne.maes@agresearch.co.nz.

To view the full position description for this role, please here.

Applications close: Sunday, 13th October 2024.

AgResearch is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an environment that embraces, promotes and values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage and welcome candidates from any background, so please don’t hesitate to apply for this position or call us to discuss this further.

AgResearch places a high value on providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a diverse workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our society and our customers. We recruit and hire without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, creed, genetic information, height or weight, sexual orientation, veteran's status, gender identity or gender expression.