Associate Research Scientist

AROA Biosurgery is a New Zealand-based soft tissue regeneration company developing extracellular matrix (ECM) biomaterials for regenerative medicine. Our Discovery Research team investigates the biological mechanisms underlying tissue repair and develops next-generation biomaterial technologies to improve patient outcomes. 

About the Role 

We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Research Scientist to join our Discovery Research team for a six-month research position funded through the MBIE R&D Career Grant programme. 

Working alongside experienced scientists, you will contribute to research investigating cellular responses to biomaterials and the inflammatory processes involved in tissue repair. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop advanced laboratory skills within a commercial biotechnology research environment. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Perform mammalian cell culture and routine cell maintenance. 

• Conduct immunohistochemistry (IHC) experiments and image analysis. 

• Perform RT-qPCR experiments, including RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis and gene expression analysis. 

• Perform ELISA and other biochemical assays. 

• Analyse and interpret experimental data. 

• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to technical reports. 

• Present findings to the research team and participate in scientific discussions. 

• Work safely and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team. 

About You 

You will have: 

• An MSc or PhD in Cell Biology, Biomedical Science, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline. 

• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture. 

• Experience performing immunohistochemistry (IHC). 

• Experience with RT-qPCR techniques. 

• Experience performing ELISA and other biochemical assays. 

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team. 

Experience with microbiology, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, histology, image analysis or statistical analysis (e.g. GraphPad Prism) would be advantageous but is not essential. 

Eligibility 

This position is funded through the MBIE R&D Career Grant programme. To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the MBIE eligibility requirements, including: 

• Have recently completed a Master's or PhD (NZQA Level 9 or 10) in science, technology, engineering, design or business. 

• Have submitted their thesis for marking, or completed the requirements for a taught Master's degree, within the past 12 months. 

• Be either a New Zealand citizen or have completed their Master's or PhD at a New Zealand university or tertiary education institution. 

• Be legally entitled to work in New Zealand. 

• Not have previously worked as a paid employee in an industry role related to their area of study, unless the employment was temporary, part-time or undertaken at a tertiary education organisation. 

• Not have previously worked for AROA Biosurgery in a related role, unless it was a temporary position of less than three months or an MBIE R&D Experience Grant internship. 

What We Offer 

• A unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biomaterials research. 

• Mentorship from experienced research scientists. 

• Hands-on experience with advanced laboratory techniques in cell and molecular biology. 

• Exposure to translational research within New Zealand's biotechnology sector. 

• The opportunity to build skills that support a future career in research and development. 
  
  

How to Apply 

Please submit the following : 

• A cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how you meet both the technical and MBIE eligibility requirements. 

• A current curriculum vitae. 

• Contact details for two academic or professional referees. 
  

Only applications from candidates who meet the MBIE R&D Career Grant eligibility criteria should apply.