Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

About the placement 

This internship is with Smart MCs and is facilitated by the CSIRO’s Generation STEM Links program. 

In this role, you will work in a biotech start-up and have the opportunity to work with microcarrier-based cultures using muscle cells, fibroblasts, and stem cells. You will receive hands-on instruction and training in the Smart MC’s Lab to learn and contribute to the microcarrier culture process. The position will involve both quality control (QC) and research & development (R&D) work, with a focus on cell culture performance, documentation, and innovation.  

Quality Control (QC): 

• Culturing a range of cell types on microcarriers. 

• Monitoring and documenting cell growth, attachment, morphology, and performance. 

• Generating QC reports and documentation. 

• Ensuring batch-to-batch consistency of microcarriers. 

Research & Development (R&D): 

• Working on cell expansion and secretion studies in bioreactor systems. 

• Exploring strategies for scaling up culture systems for industrial applications. 

• Maximise cell-cultured products yield by exploring and fine-tuning the culture conditions 

This opportunity is ideal for a motivated undergraduate student in biology or a related life science field who is eager to gain real-world experience.  

Work arrangements 

• Start date: ASAP 

• Full time on a fixed term 200 hour contract, with further employment likely for the right candidate. 

• Remuneration: $25/hour plus super on a temporary contract with Smart MC’s 

• Location: Belrose NSW 2085 

Desired capabilities 

• Currently studying an undergraduate degree in biology, biotechnology, biomedical science, or a related field. 

• Interest in cell culture and tissue engineering applications. 

• Previous lab experience preferred but not essential – training will be provided. 

• Strong attention to detail and enthusiasm for experimental work. 

• Ability to follow protocols, keep good lab records, and communicate findings. 

• Reliable, proactive, and able to work both independently and in a small team. 

• Excellent attention to detail and precision in executing tasks. 

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively report on project progress and collaborate with team members. 

Requirements 

• Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. 

• Must be in your final year of an undergraduate qualification. 

• This is a confidential project and applicants will be required to sign non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and IP-Assignment deed with Smart MCs 

About the Industry Partner 

Smart MCs is biotechnology and fast-growing startup that specialises in advancing innovative methods for the scaling up cell cultivation at a large scale, with a particular focus on cellular agriculture and cellular therapeutic. In other words, we enable the means for growing cells in laboratory without the animal which can be used for range applications including lab-grown meat, regenerative medicine and vaccine production. 

At Smart MCs, we consider cultivating a diverse workforce of imaginative individuals to be key to achieving our daring vision. Together, we strive for a world where science is utilised in a responsible manner, promoting positive outcomes for both industry and the environment.