"Senior Research Assistant"

Job Description:

• Faculty of Science / School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
• Full-time fixed-term position through to end of 2028
• Base salary will be in the range $95,361.61 - $102,302.91 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 6)
• Based at our St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

Join a high-impact research environment where your technical expertise will directly contribute to the future of vaccine innovation. We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Research Assistant to play a key role in NHMRC-funded RNA-based vaccine research. In this role, you will provide specialised technical support across cutting-edge vaccine development projects, with a strong focus on RNA-based vaccines and microarray patch delivery technologies, helping translate research excellence into real-world health outcomes.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Deliver advanced technical research support across RNA and vaccine-related projects, applying specialist laboratory skills and recognised scientific methodologies to high-impact research outcomes.
• Design and conduct complex laboratory experiments, including molecular biology, protein and virus assays, advanced imaging techniques, and PC2 work with pathogenic viruses, while maintaining accurate and compliant research records.
• Undertake in vivo research activities in rodents, including vaccinations, infections, tissue collection and animal welfare monitoring, in line with ethical approvals and best-practice standards.
• Maintain a safe, high-performing laboratory environment by leading strong research housekeeping practices, troubleshooting equipment, supporting continuous safety improvement, and training new staff and students.
• Contribute to research excellence through administrative and scholarly support, including protocol development, ethics and funding documentation, literature reviews, and preparation of reports, figures, presentations and manuscripts.

About You

• A relevant degree in Virology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or a related discipline, with demonstrated experience in advanced research environments or an equivalent combination of qualifications and practical expertise.
• Proven technical capability across complex research techniques, including molecular cloning, PCR, synthetic RNA and self-amplifying RNA vaccines, protein purification and analysis, PC2 virus production and handling, and in vivo rodent experimentation.
• Strong experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams to deliver complex animal studies, with advanced skills in procedures such as intracellular cytokine staining and vaccination approaches, including microarray patch delivery or the ability to rapidly develop this expertise.
• In-depth understanding of research governance, legislative and safety requirements, including animal ethics, quarantine, waste disposal, labelling, risk assessment and adherence to standard operating procedures.
• Well-developed problem-solving, planning and prioritisation skills, complemented by strong interpersonal and communication abilities, enabling effective stakeholder engagement and the production of clear, high-quality scientific documentation.

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

Applications close Monday January 26th 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-60151).