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Senior Research Assistant, mRNA therapies

The University of Queensland
St. Lucia, Boulia, QLD
A$89,000-$96,000 p/a + 17% super and leave loading
Science & Technology → Biotechnology & Genetics
Full-time
On-site

Posted 15 days ago


  • Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN)
  • Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 12 months
  • Base salary will be in the range $89,861.38 - $96,402.32 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 6)
  • Based at our St Lucia Campus
About This Opportunity

The Cheetham Group's research program focuses on next generation mRNA therapeutics. In this role, you will provide specialist research expertise in support of high quality research outcomes. You will have responsibilities for conducting semi-independent research in mRNA therapies and for general lab upkeep.

Key responsibilities will include:

Core

  • Undertake research, in the field of mRNA sciences.
  • Apply specialist technical skills or knowledge to research activities
  • Under broad direction, set up, monitor and demonstrate standard experiments and equipment use
  • Perform evaluation of mRNA efficacy and biodistribution in animal models.
  • Maintain accurate records of experiments or technical activities and results/outcomes

Safety

  • Ensure a high standard of research housekeeping, waste disposal, sample storage and chemical/specimen/sample inventory management
  • Assist with developing a proactive safety culture and implement continuous improvement

Optional

  • Assist with the development of research/analytical protocols
  • Perform standard maintenance of instruments/equipment to ensure optimal performance
  • Maintain comprehensive preparation/set-up notes and instructions for self and others to use
  • Ensure compliance with approved ethics protocols
  • Contribute to research outputs, joint preparation and authorship of reports/manuscripts
  • Record and document outcomes from experiments
  • Assist with designing complex research studies

Leadership and management

  • Support and/or lead the development of more junior research engineers, scientists, and technicians

Other duties, as reasonable directed by the supervisor

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world.

Everyone here has a role to play. As a member of our professional staff cohort, you will be actively involved in working towards our vision of a better world. By supporting the academic endeavour across teaching, research, and the student life, you will have the opportunity to contribute to activities that have a lasting impact on our community.

Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:

  • 26 weeks paid parental leave or 14 weeks paid primary caregiver leave
  • 17% superannuation contributions
  • 17.5% annual leave loading
  • Access to flexible working arrangements
  • Health and wellness discounts - fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family
  • UQ Study for Staff
  • On campus childcare options
  • Cheap parking (from just $5.75 a day)
  • Salary packaging options
About You
  • Completion of a relevant degree in Molecular Biology/Genetics with subsequent experience in coordinating activities or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.
  • Demonstrated research-relevant knowledge and skills with expertise in a wide range of specialist and general research techniques, including molecular cloning, tissue culture and RNA biology.
  • Experience with animal handling and procedures.
  • Significant experience of working in a high-performing research group.
  • Detailed knowledge of legislative requirements and operating procedures for major areas of research and scientific safety such as quarantine procedures, waste disposal, labelling and risk assessment
  • Well-developed problem-solving skills, with an ability to forward plan, prioritise tasks to meet deadlines and work with a high level of adaptability, both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with proven ability to produce clear, succinct documentation
  • The ability to liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders in a research environment.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check etc.

Work Rights:

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Seth Cheetham - [email protected]

For application queries, please contact [email protected] stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

  • Cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the 'About You' section
  • Resume

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.

We know one of our strengths 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. Reach out to [email protected] for accessibility support or adjustments.

Applications close 12 March 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-48704). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for March.


About The University of Queensland

Herston, QLD, Australia
Education & Training
5001-10000 employees

What started as Queensland's first university in 1909, with just three faculties and 83 students, has grown into university ranked in the world’s top 50 that is renowned for being a leader in teaching and research.

When you join the University of Queensland, you’re joining a community that actively strives toward creating change right across the world every day. From science and sustainability to health and humanities, our researchers are finding solutions to the world’s biggest challenges. Our award-winning teachers are recognised for empowering our students to thrive as innovative thinkers and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

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