Studies microscopic forms of life such as bacteria, viruses and protozoa.

• Investigates the chemical structure and function of living cells and their isolated components, organs and tissues in humans, animals, plants, and micro-organisms; examines micro-organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, yeast and their enzymes, and uses the knowledge gained to create and develop new, and improve existing, products, materials and processes.

• Work indoors in offices and research laboratories within universities, government departments, hospitals, industrial or research facilities.

• Occasionally may work outdoors to collect samples or when performing field trials.

• Works with a range of micro-organisms, some of which may be hazardous and protective equipment and clothing and adherence to safety procedures will be required.

• Works in adequately lit, heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained workspaces.

• Sedentary to light physical demand.

• Frequently sits in offices and laboratories.

• Stands and walks frequently in offices, in fieldwork situations and in laboratories.

• There is an occasional requirement for lifting, carrying or pulling when assembling research equipment.

• Occasional bending, squatting, crouching, stretching and reaching may be required during fieldwork.

• Occasional contact with skin irritants and water may be required in some environments.

• Frequent repetitive hand and finger movements are required when using hand tools and equipment including writing instruments, computers and general laboratory equipment.

• Driving may be required to reach fieldwork locations but driving is not typically a significant component of the job.

• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, computing, research, laboratory, analytical, mathematical, report writing, communication, problem solving, critical thinking and decision-making capabilities.

• A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.