Research Assistant - Environmental Sample Processing

About This Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant to join the Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), a multidisciplinary research centre committed to world‑class research across environmental health sciences. Working within a highly collaborative, inquisitive and purpose‑driven environment, you will support research activities in environmental sampling research and related consultancy projects, contributing to work that informs policy, protects communities, and addresses emerging environmental health risks at scale.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Extracting and processing samples for trace organic chemical analysis, including routine wet chemistry tasks such as preparation of chemical solutions, aliquoting, filtration, labelling and processing of high sample volumes.
• Providing laboratory and field‑based technical support, contributing to the safe and efficient operation of research equipment, infrastructure, methodologies and protocols.
• Managing the appropriate storage, handling and disposal of chemicals, equipment and samples, including sample receipt, logging and freezer storage.
• Supporting research and project administration, including sample bottle preparation, coordination with field sampling operators, maintenance of facilities and equipment, and assisting with scientific and technical documentation.

About You

We are seeking a well‑organised, methodical and self‑motivated Research Assistant who brings:

• Completion of a degree‑level qualification in a relevant science‑related discipline.
• Demonstrated laboratory experience, including wet chemistry methodologies, with extraction techniques considered an advantage.
• Proven ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures and apply appropriate QA/QC processes.
• Strong understanding of safe handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials in line with WHS requirements.
• Ability to work both collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and independently on routine procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to contribute clearly to technical documentation.
• Previous experience in a similar research or laboratory support role considered favourably.

About UQ

As part of The University of Queensland community, you will work alongside some of the world’s brightest minds in a culture that is ambitious, inclusive and committed to creating change together. UQ is a Group of Eight university, recognised globally for excellence in research, teaching and impact.

The greater benefits of joining UQ are broad and include up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements, access to exclusive internal opportunities, career development pathways, and a strong focus on staff wellbeing.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Gabriele Elisei at g.elisei@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number in the subject line.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section.

Other Information

Pre‑employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia (employer-sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment), mandatory immunisations, and other integrity and conduct requirements.

We’re dedicated to equity, diversity and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways differ and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criterion but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We are also happy to support accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process.

Applications close Sunday 10 May 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (Job Reference Number: R‑63942).

Full-time, fixed-term position through to 30 September 2027. Base salary will range from $83,776 - $93,121 (HEW Level 5) + 17% Superannuation. Based at our Dutton Park campus.