"Senior Research Assistant"

Job Description:

• The School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
• Full-time (36.25 hours per week) / fixed-term position until 31/08/2026. (The contract end date is based on current funding arrangements. Usual discussions will occur prior to this date as to the continuation of this funding).
• Base salary will be in the range $83,776.44 - $93,121.40 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 5)
• Based at our St Lucia location

About This Opportunity

The Senior Research Assistant will provide technical research support and specialist expertise within the laboratory of Professor Kirsty Short, contributing to innovative infectious disease research across all stages of the research lifecycle.

As part of a collaborative research program focused on virology and immune responses, this role supports high-quality experimental work, efficient laboratory operations, and the delivery of meaningful research outcomes.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Coordinate aspects of scientific or technical research activities
• Assist in the design and conduct of research studies under the supervision of senior staff
• Apply advanced or specialised research techniques and support complex experiments or programs
• Troubleshoot and maintain scientific equipment, facilities and laboratory infrastructure
• Support safe laboratory operations, including the storage, handling and disposal of chemicals, materials and samples
• Assist with research documentation (including ethics and funding applications), literature reviews and routine team administration
• Prepare reports, figures, presentations and other research outputs across the research lifecycle

About You

• Completion of a degree level qualification in infectious disease; 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
• Experience in Murine models essential, ideally experience with Influenza in vivo
• PC3 experience would be highly regarded.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and independently on routine tasks
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Well-organised, methodical and self-motivated

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, which may include verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications and other role-specific requirements such as mandatory immunisations. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

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 Professor Kirsty Short via k.short@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, particularly from Australia’s First Nations Peoples. 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 5 March 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-61232). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for mid March.

Posted: 20/02/2026