"Research Assistant"

PRIMARY DETAIL

• Salary package: Part-time, 0.4 FTE: $40,288.72 per annum, inclusive of 17% superannuation (HEW 5.1, based on a full-time equivalent of $ 100,721.79)
• Part-time, 14 hours, fixed term 3-year role
• Based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Creating a Sense of Balance: Understanding and Enhancing Electrical Excitability of Vestibular Tissues.

About the Role

This Research Assistant (RA) position is essential to the successful delivery of a major translational research collaboration between Macquarie University and Cochlear Ltd. The project seeks to advance our understanding of vestibular neurophysiology and develop innovative approaches to enhance the electrical excitability of vestibular tissues—laying the groundwork for future implantable balance prostheses.

Working at 0.4 FTE over three years and appointed at HEW 5.1, the RA will provide consistent, technically skilled support in a specialised laboratory environment. The role involves assisting with delicate electrophysiological, mechanical measurements such as vibrometry, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) experiments using animal models. The appointee will play a critical role in maintaining laboratory readiness, supporting surgical procedures, fabricating custom electrodes, and managing essential administrative and compliance tasks.

Key Responsibilities

1. Experimental and Technical Support

• Assist in electrophysiological recordings, vibrometry, and OCT measurements on animal models.
• Learn and support surgical procedures required for inner-ear research, following all ethics and welfare protocols.
• Fabricate, test, and quality-check custom electrodes, probes, and related micro-components.
• Customise, assemble, and maintain specialised laboratory equipment, including micromanipulators, amplifiers, and optical systems.
• Contribute to lab safety and compliance.

2. Laboratory Operations and Maintenance

• Conduct routine cleaning, instrument care, and laboratory organisation to maintain a compliant and safe working environment.
• Perform regular maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of essential equipment.

3. Administrative and Compliance Duties

• Assist in writing, updating, and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure accurate and compliant record-keeping, including experimental logs, equipment registers, and ethics documentation.
• Support the preparation and organisation of materials for animal ethics applications, audits, and internal reporting.

4. Procurement and Resource Management

• Order laboratory equipment, consumables, and chemicals in line with University and safety policies.
• Monitor stock levels and support procurement planning to ensure uninterrupted workflow.

About You

We are seeking a passionate and motivated individual with a strong interest in neurophysiology, biomedical engineering, or related experimental sciences.

You’ll possess a solid foundation in experimental techniques and a keen willingness to contribute to cutting-edge research.

You’ll have manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to handle tasks like working with biological tissues and micro-fabrication, particularly when handling delicate tasks such as working with biological tissues and micro-fabrication processes.

You’re organised, independent, and eager to learn new skills, including surgical techniques and operating specialised equipment. A commitment to lab safety, ethics, and scientific integrity is essential for success in this role.

The role is primarily laboratory-based on campus, with some administrative work performed independently as required.

Essential Criteria

• Completion of (or enrolment in the final stages of) a degree in Biomedical Science, Medical Sciences, Engineering, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory work, including handling equipment and following protocols.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to document procedures clearly.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary research team.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in electrophysiology, OCT, vibrometry, or microsurgery.
• Prior involvement in animal research or familiarity with animal ethics requirements.
• Basic skills in soldering, micro-fabrication, or electronics.
• Experience in writing or maintaining laboratory SOPs.

How To Apply

To apply for this position, please apply online by submitting an up-to-date Resume.

Role-specific Enquiries: christopher.pastras@mq.edu.au.

Applications Close: Wednesday 25th of February 2025 at 11:59pm (AEST).

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.