"Research Officer"

Job Description:

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

The School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences (BABS) has an international reputation in biotechnology, molecular and cellular biology, and microbiology, including proteomics and genomics, gene regulation, metabolism, environmental microbiology and infectious diseases. BABS teaches approximately 2,000 full-time equivalent students, and has 34 academics, 28 postdoctoral research associates or fellows, approximately 20 other research staff, 152 higher degree research students, 12 technical officers and 4 administrative staff. The School’s yearly operational budget is approximately $11M, with available research funds of approximately $9 million annually.

The Research Officer plays a key role in supporting research projects as part of a multidisciplinary team of researchers. The position will provide technical and research assistance to senior research staff in activities associated with various research projects, including the contribution and application of knowledge in the field of RNA control of behaviour.

About the role

• Level 6 ($103k - $110k) plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 9 weeks
• Part-time (20 hours per week)

The role reports to the Professor John Mattick and has no direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

• Provision of practical and efficient research support to stakeholders, assisting in the conduct of research that contributes to a better understanding of RNA control of behaviour contributing where appropriate.
• Support in the conceptualisation, design, and successful conduct of research projects.
• Prepare and contribute to the production of technical reports, manuscripts for publication and tenders or grants for external funding.
• Manage the technical aspects of databases, including coordinating and executing data cleaning, data management processes and ensuring research integrity in research databases.
• Proactively assist with research reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, ethics applications and progress reports.
• Monitor research protocols, provide problem solving and resolution to any evolving problems related to design, implementation and analysis.
• Liaise with organisations, data custodians, stakeholders and collaborators and actively participate in meetings and discussions as required.
• Coordinate, plan and complete day-to-day research activities within the framework of agreed project timelines and responsibilities.
• Analyse laboratory generated data including videos from animal behaviour experiments (e.g., tracking, behavioural scoring).
• Use advanced computational and statistical tools to analyse complex biological data.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments, protocols, and data analysis.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policy and procedures of the University and take all reasonable care to ensure your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself and others.

About the successful applicant (Selection Criteria)

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A university degree in Life Sciences, Biological Sciences or a related discipline with subsequent relevant experience, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of education, training or experience.
• Knowledge of research protocols, experimental design and planning as involved in developing research projects and reporting against milestones.
• Demonstrated experience in academic data analysis (biological or behavioural).
• Demonstrated computing skills including word processing (MS word), spreadsheets (MS Excel), and statistical analysis packages.
• Demonstrated superior interpersonal communication skills to initiate and maintain effective stakeholder relationships whilst exercising discretion and confidentiality.
• Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively within a team, but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Please apply online - applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact: John Mattick E: j.mattick@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: September 8th, 2025