Research Assistant (Animal and Cellular Specialist)

To provide research, technical and administrative support for research projects developing novel therapeutics to treat neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.
· Salary package - From 88,670 per annum (HEW Level 4) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
· Appointment type – Full-time fixed term contract for 1 year
· Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
Advance dementia and epilepsy research, apply your laboratory expertise and help move discoveries towards new therapies
Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy remain among the most complex challenges in neuroscience. At Macquarie University's Dementia Research Centre, researchers are working at the interface of molecular biology, animal models and cell-based systems to develop novel therapeutics for these disorders. We are seeking a Research Assistant to provide the research, technical and administrative expertise that keeps this work moving forward.
Reporting to A/Prof Janet van Eersel, you will be hands-on across the full research pipeline - from maintaining and characterising the mouse colony and conducting behavioural, motor and memory testing, through to molecular and biochemical analysis of tissue and cultured cells. You will contribute to experimental planning, data analysis and the preparation of research outputs, while helping to keep the laboratory running smoothly and safely day to day.
This is an opportunity to build deep technical capability within a well-resourced, interdisciplinary centre that sits inside Australia's first fully integrated academic health sciences centre. If you enjoy varied laboratory work, precise technique and research with a clear translational purpose, this role will give you both breadth and depth.
About the Role
As a Research Assistant, you will:
Monitor and maintain the mouse colony to a high standard, assisting with breeding, weaning offspring, health monitoring, monitoring pregnancies, genotyping and record keeping
Carry out and assist with behavioural, motor and memory testing of mice, including analysis of digital behavioural data
Assist with animal surgeries, treatment administration and tissue harvesting
Conduct biochemical analysis of biological samples (cell culture and animal tissue) using techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, PCR and protein extraction
Undertake molecular biology experiments including RT-PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, molecular cloning and modification of DNA plasmids
Culture, treat and analyse cell lines, induced pluripotent stem cells, embryonic stem cells and primary cells, using methods such as immunocytochemical staining and Western blot
Contribute to the planning and conduct of experiments in line with scientific standards, and assist HDR students and other staff with straightforward research techniques
Maintain accurate records and data management, monitor consumable stock levels, and help keep the laboratory compliant with work health and safety requirements, SOPs and SWPs
Assist with data analysis, statistical evaluation, and the preparation of research data, reports and scientific manuscripts for publication
About Us
Macquarie University has the nation's first fully integrated academic health sciences centre under a university's leadership. With a focus on patients and an ultimate goal of improving lives, the Macquarie University Health Sciences Centre (MQ Health) is a true convergence of the learning and research endeavours of Macquarie's Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences with the clinical care provided at Macquarie University Hospital and Clinics. It brings together the work of medical and allied health researchers across the University and around the country, with unparalleled access to the world-leading clinical resources and research facilities found only on our campus.
The Dementia Research Centre, part of the Macquarie Medical School, provides an environment for innovative, interdisciplinary dementia research, using and developing state-of-the-art technologies to advance basic discoveries towards translation into clinical treatments. The Centre offers a team-based research environment for cutting-edge science, with a shared vision of developing novel therapeutics to treat these devastating disorders.
About You
You are a laboratory-based scientist with hands-on experience across animal and cell-based research techniques, and you take pride in precise technique, accurate records and reliable results. You are organised, methodical and comfortable managing multiple experiments in a busy research setting, and you communicate clearly with colleagues and students.
Selection Criteria
Bachelor's degree with Honours or Masters in medical science, neuroscience, biochemistry or a related discipline (a PhD in a related discipline will be highly regarded)
Experience in animal care, handling and behavioural analysis
Experience with laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA and protein extraction, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, molecular biology and cell culture
Experience working in a research laboratory, with a thorough understanding of laboratory health and safety practices and principles
Knowledge of laboratory administration and experimental planning
Well-developed organisational and time management skills, with a demonstrated capacity to meet tight deadlines
Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the preparation and presentation of research data, and experience working both autonomously and as part of a research team
How to Apply
To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).
Applications Close: Wednesday 21st October, 11:59pm AEST
We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
**This position is not available for visa sponsorship, and the successful applicant must have valid work rights in Australia for the full 1-year fixed-term contract**
For General enquiries: Rebecca Wood, Talent Acquisition at r.wood@mq.edu.au
Why Join Us?
Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.
Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
17% Superannuation
Subsidised onsite parking options
Extensive training and professional development programs