"Research Assistant"

Job Description

PRIMARY DETAIL

• Salary Package: From $86,087 - $97,879 prorated per annum (HEW level 5), plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading.
• Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term contract for 6 months.
• Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus (North Ryde) Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre.

About The Role

We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant with a background in molecular biology, cell culture and proteomics. Our research team is focused on developing therapeutics and biomarkers in neurodegenerative diseases including motor neuron disease (also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and dementias using cell models. The successful candidate will work closely across the NeuroProteomics and Molecular Therapeutics groups. You will contribute to the development of a therapeutic biomarker for dementia by providing research assistance to support laboratory projects, manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including ordering, inventory, equipment maintenance and compliance with safety requirements, and contribute to a positive and collaborative research culture.

About Us

The Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre (>70 staff working on MND) is well integrated into the Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences and the Macquarie Medical School, has established state-of-the-art research facilities and offers outstanding development options. This position offers excellent research opportunities in an experienced research group based within the Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre at Macquarie University.

The Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences has active research programs in biomedical, translational and health services domains, with current areas of strength including neurosciences (especially motor neuron disease, neurological rehabilitation, and the clinical neuroscience of pain), cancer medicine, and vascular science, amongst others. The Faculty hosts the Australian Institute of Health Innovation, an internationally acclaimed powerhouse researching health systems, e-health, and patient safety. In learning and teaching, the Faculty offers a unique suite of capability-based medical educational programs aimed a post-graduation subspecialty medical education and training, and a unique three-year extended masters-level, professional-entry Doctor of Physiotherapy degree.

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we’ve grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

About You

You will be an enthusiastic and organised researcher who takes initiative when completing research project tasks. You will enjoy working both independently and as part of a team and will be able and actively participate in group analysis work and laboratory activities. You will also have knowledge of and be competent in the MS Office Suite, image analysis software, and data management.

To Apply

To be considered for this position applicants are asked to provide a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and attach their curriculum vitae (including contact information for 2-3 references) as part of the application process.

Essential criteria:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s in molecular biology, cell biology or related disciplines, and experience conducting research.
• Proficiency with molecular biology and cloning techniques.
• Experience in mammalian cell biology techniques including cell culture maintenance, transfections and transductions, western blotting.
• Live-cell fluorescence imaging and analysis.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a team (including Faculty administrators, Faculty laboratory operations team, staff and students).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desired criteria:

• Experience in mass spectrometry.
• Recognised contributions to the preparation and analysis of high-quality research data, drafting reports and manuscripts for presentation and publication, relative to experience.

*Please note that this role will require immunisation checks.*

Applications Close: 12 December 2025

Role Enquiries: Team Leader and Macquarie University Research Fellow, Dr. Jennilee Davidson (jennilee.davidson@mq.edu.au)

Kindly note that we will be aiming to conduct in-person interviews for only shortlisted candidates (week of 15/12/2025) and would appreciate if you are available during this time.

Why work at Macquarie

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability.

We are walking distance from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre. Not only is our prime location an advantage, but take a look at our benefits on offer:

• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options
• Flexible working options
• Training and professional development
• Onsite childcare facilities
• Discounted health insurance (Medibank)
• Onsite vacation care
• Employee Assistance Program
• Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close: 12/12/2025 11:59 PM

A Place Where You Belong

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.

Flexible Work

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.