"Research Assistant - Motor Neuron Disease"

Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN)
Full-time, 100% FTE Fixed-term position through to 04 January 2027, with the possibility of extension
Base salary will be in the range $82,133.75 - $91,295.49 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 5)
Based at our vibrant St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

In this role, you will conduct research into understanding the pathogenic role of skeletal muscle in Motor Neuron Disease (MND). You will be involved in all aspects of research, from the conduct of experiments, through to the analysis of data, contribution to writing of research manuscripts and administrative duties.

This role involves the conduct of laboratory-based studies into skeletal muscle in Motor Neuron Disease. This will require a significant amount of in vitro and in vivo experimentation, as well as face to face contact with people living with Motor Neuron Disease. In addition, the role will also involve general administrative duties.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Coordinate and conduct all aspects of a research project investigating the role of skeletal muscle in Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
• Maintain mouse colonies
• Work with PhD students and research staff to facilitate the progress of research projects
• Troubleshooting of issues with scientific/technical equipment

Safety

• Contributes to the safe and efficient operation of research equipment, infrastructure, methodologies and protocols
• Ensures the appropriate inventory, storage, handling and disposal of chemicals, equipment, stores and/or samples/specimens

Research and administrative support

• Assist with drafting and submitting research documentation, including ethics and funding applications
• Assist with routine team administration
• Assist with preparing reports, graphs, figures and presentations on research outcomes at different stages of the research cycle outcomes

Any other duties as reasonably directed by your supervisor

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world. Everyone here has a role to play. As a member of our professional staff cohort, you will be actively involved in working towards our vision of a better world. By supporting the academic endeavour across teaching, research, and the student life, you will have the opportunity to contribute to activities that have a lasting impact on our community.

Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:

• Up to 26 weeks paid parental leave/paid primary care leave
• 17% superannuation contributions + 17.5% annual leave loading
• Access to flexible working arrangements including hybrid working options, flexible start/finish times, purchased leave, and a condensed fortnight
• Health and wellness discounts – fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family
• Career development opportunities –access to exclusive internal-only vacancies and our Study for Staff program
• On campus childcare options
• Affordable parking (from just $6.15 a day)
• Salary packaging options

About You

• Completion of a degree level qualification in Biomedical Science/Life Science or completion of a Diploma with relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training
• Excellent practical research skills and experience in relevant research methodology or techniques required for this body of research, including cell culture, plasmid cloning, RNA and protein extraction, qRT-PCR, Western-blot, immunofluorescence, Lentivirus production, metabolic assays (e.g. ROS, β-oxidation, ATP assay), mouse behavior experiments (e.g. Rotarod, grip strength), electrophysiology (e.g. compound muscle action potential).
• Experience in generating and/or working with both animal models and human models of Motor Neuron Disease
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues
• Ability to work independently on routine procedures
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Well-organised, methodical and self-motivated
• Previous experience in a similar role would be considered favourably

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, education check etc. You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Shyuan Ngo; s.ngo@uq.edu.au For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload: Resume, A cover letter summarising how your background aligns with the 'About You' section. Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

Other Information

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role. Applications close 18 September 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-55191). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for the week commencing 13 October 2025.