Casual Algal Culture Technician

Job Description:

• Work Pattern: Casual, approximately 1 to 2 days per week (flexible)
• Hourly Rate: $34.25– $37.93 + 25% Casual loading, plus superannuation.

About the area

The Oceans Institute at the University of Western Australia integrates multidisciplinary research and expertise to address global challenges in ocean health, sustainable resources, and marine conservation. Through collaboration with international partners and industry leaders, the institute drives innovative solutions to protect and manage our marine environments for future generations.

About the opportunity

Culture Management & Troubleshooting

• Maintain existing stock cultures of marine (e.g., Symbiodiniaceae) algae.
• Isolate and establish new cultures from environmental samples.
• Troubleshoot "difficult" cultures that exhibit slow growth or contamination.

Media Preparation & Sterilization

• Prepare complex synthetic and enriched seawater media (e.g., IMK, f/2,) with needed pH and salinity adjustments.
• Operate autoclaves and filtration systems to ensure absolute sterility.
• Manage biosecurity, chemical inventory and MSDS documentation.

Scaling & Biomass Production

• Transition cultures from small-scale flasks to large-scale.
• Monitor growth kinetics using cell counting (hemocytometry) or fluorometry.

About you

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated experience in aseptic technique and working within a laminar flow hood.
• Algal Expertise: Knowledge of algal growth requirements (nutrients, light spectra, photoperiods).
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify early signs of culture stress and implement corrective actions.
• Attention to Detail: Rigorous record-keeping skills for tracking culture lineage and media batches.
• Educational Background: Currently pursuing or completed a degree in Marine Science, Biology, Microbiology, or a related field.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.

How to apply

Please apply by emailing your resume to Kate Quigley at kate.quigley@uwa.edu.au

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Wednesday, 13 May 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.