Senior Forensic Biologist

About the Role

The Senior Scientist position is integral to delivering a statewide forensic biology service, aligning with the policies, guidelines, and strategies of Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ). This role contributes to FSQ's objective of being a global leader in providing high-quality, efficient, and innovative forensic services that uphold the integrity of the Queensland justice system. Senior Scientists leverage advanced knowledge, skills, and experience to exercise independent scientific judgment in analyzing specimens and samples. These positions are situated within the Analytical and Reference processing teams of the Laboratory Management Branch.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain compliance with established service quality standards, health and safety protocols, and procedures to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe services and work environments.
• Apply specialized knowledge, skills, and experience to provide expert analytical services in forensic DNA analysis, appropriate to the level of analytical expertise.
• Conduct forensic DNA testing and associated tasks using accredited protocols, standards, and equipment within a multidisciplinary team, adhering to professional and ethical standards with minimal supervision and increasing accountability.
• Actively engage in team activities, including the implementation of new technologies and processes within the work area.
• Enhance scientific knowledge and expertise through continuous learning, professional development, and collaboration with junior staff.
• Foster effective communication and cooperation within the Forensic DNA Analysis team and with internal and external clients and stakeholders, providing expert advice on complex technical matters to junior staff, clients, and stakeholders.
• Participate in quality and service improvement initiatives in accordance with NATA/ISO accreditation requirements to enhance the delivery of Forensic DNA Analysis services.
• Contribute to a positive organizational culture and a safe, innovative environment through team meetings, training, development activities, and performance appraisals.
• Ensure all work adheres to relevant legislative, administrative, and professional standards to meet NATA/ISO accreditation requirements and uphold quality scientific practice.
• Engage in the regular review and enhancement of forensic biology/DNA professional work policies, practices, and procedures, aligning with NATA accreditation, international best practices, and legislative mandates.
• Collaborate with other Senior Scientists and Team Leaders to ensure the operational integration of the Forensic Biology Unit with FSQ's broader objectives, driving service improvement initiatives for quality client service.
• Work with team members to achieve the Forensic Biology Unit's service delivery goals and ensure the provision of high-quality scientific services.
• Utilize scientific knowledge in forensic biology to resolve complex scientific challenges.

Additional Information

Applications will be kept active for 12 months. This occupational group is Health - Science/Technical.