About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant to join the team at Epigenes Australia, a Biotech company conducting its research in Bundoora, Victoria (www.epigenes.com.au). As a full-time (or part-time) Research Assistant, you will be crucial in supporting our lab-based research initiatives to advance mental health treatments.

What you'll be doing

• Conducting a range of laboratory experiments and assays as directed by senior researchers
• Accurately recording and analysing research data, assisting with the preparation of reports and presentations
• Maintaining detailed records and ensuring compliance with all relevant safety and quality protocols
• Collaborating with the wider research team to contribute to the overall success of projects
• Proactively identifying opportunities for process improvements and contributing innovative ideas

What we're looking for

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline, such as biology, biochemistry or bio-medical science
• Hands-on experience working in a laboratory environment, with a strong understanding of research methodologies and equipment
• Excellent attention to detail, data analysis and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities to collaborate effectively with researchers and stakeholders
• Enthusiasm for contributing to cutting-edge medical research and a genuine passion for science

What we offer

At Epigenes Australia, we are committed to providing our employees with a supportive and enriching work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a range of benefits, including:

• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance
• Opportunities for career progression and growth within the organisation

If you are an enthusiastic and dedicated Research Assistant who is ready to make a meaningful contribution to our innovative work, we encourage you to apply now.

Closing Date: April 17th, 2025. However, we reserve the right to make an earlier appointment, so please apply early.

Position Description

Position Title: Research Assistant

Reports to: Prof Terrance Johns (www.terrancejohns.com)

Award/Agreement/Contract: Contract

Position Type: Equivalent to Level A Academic $79,000 - $99,000

Employment Type: Full or Part-time/2-year contract with the possibility of extension

Position Context/Purpose

Epigenes Australia is committed to finding new treatments for a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. Our research program is embedded within La Trobe University. All employees of Epigenes have adjunct La Trobe positions and key staff are employed directly by the University.

This position will be part of our calorie restriction research program. Calorie restriction reduces anxiety in rodents and shows promise in human trials. We are seeking to understand the mechanisms that cause this anxiety reduction. Once the mechanisms have been identified, we plan to develop therapies that replicate the mental health benefits of calorie restriction.

This position requires a research assistant who has experience in wet lab experimentation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct biochemical assays such as western blotting to analyse tissue and cell samples
• Perform DNA and RNA extractions, utilizing established protocol
• Conduct basic molecular cloning/DNA preps (not essential but desirable)
• Perform immunohistochemistry/fluorescence on brain tissue sections
• Assist in the maintenance of neuronal cell lines in vitro
• Assist with laboratory management, including ordering, inventory management, and ensuring adequate stock levels for ongoing experiments
• Support other researchers within the group by providing assistance and expertise in various aspects of their research projects
• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, data, and analyses
• Attend Lab meetings and present data when required

Qualifications/Skills

• B.Sc. or equivalent degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry or Biomedicine
• Demonstrated experience in conducting laboratory experiments, including the areas of lab-based assays such as western blotting and immunohistochemistry
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines effectively.
• Commitment to high standards of research integrity and ethical conduct.

Essential Criteria

• Experience in western blotting and immunohistochemistry

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at understanding the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the mental health benefits of calorie restriction. The successful candidate will be able to work in a dynamic and collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. We welcome applications from candidates who are passionate about scientific discovery and eager to make meaningful contributions to the field of neuroscience and mental health.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our research team. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.