Exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic Laboratory Assistant with an interest in molecular biology to contribute to research programs in the Dementia Research Centre.

• Salary Package: From $76,654 to $82,617 p.a. (HEW Level 4) plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading
• Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term (12 months)
• Location: Macquarie University (North Ryde)

The Role
The Research Centre is seeking a dedicated and reliable Laboratory Assistant to support ongoing in vivo studies exploring the role of interneurons in Motor Neuron Disease.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with in vivo studies, including behavioural testing, tissue collection and processing
  
  
• Sectioning and preparing samples for analysis
  
  
• Performing molecular biology techniques such as PCR, protein extraction, DNA purification, and Western blotting
  
  
• Maintaining laboratory records and assisting with data entry
  
  
• Supporting other ongoing research projects within the Centre

About You
You are organised, detail-oriented and dependable, and have a strong interest in laboratory-based research. You take initiative when completing research projects, have experience in conducting in vivo studies as well as laboratory techniques, including western blotting, immunohistochemistry and you are comfortable handling samples and following protocols.

You enjoy working independently and as part of a collaborative team, are proactive in supporting lab operations and assisting researchers. You are committed to maintaining a safe and organised lab environment. You're open to learning new laboratory techniques and take care to follow protocols with precision, always maintaining a high standard of accuracy and upholding high standards of research integrity.

About Us
Macquarie is the university of pioneering minds. Globally recognised as one of Australia's leading research universities, Macquarie is a place where extraordinary new possibilities come to light. We've helped people to hear, introduced wireless internet technology to the world and broken through traditional boundaries by appointing Australia's first female vice-chancellor.

Macquarie University's Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences builds on our aspiration to have the nation's first fully integrated Academic Health Sciences Centre under a university's leadership. It brings together the excellent work of medical and allied-health clinicians and researchers across the University and around the country, with unparalleled access to world-leading clinical resources and research facilities found only on our campus.

The Macquarie Medical School is committed to improving patient health through world-class fundamental and translational medical research. Within the School is the Dementia Research Centre which provides an environment for innovative, interdisciplinary research for dementia and basic neuroscience. The Dementia Research Centre is committed to providing a unique and supportive mentoring program to allow the growth of future leaders for neuroscience research.

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation in 1964, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

To Apply
To be considered for this position, please apply online by submitting your CV and a separate (2-page maximum) cover letter addressing how you meet the following selection criteria below:

Essential Selection Criteria:

• Bachelor's degree in medical science, neuroscience or related discipline.
  
  
• Knowledge of lab administration and experimental planning to assist in the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the laboratory.
  
  
• Ability to apply existing theoretical and experimental knowledge to modify, adapt and assist in undertaking molecular biology.
  
  
• Exposure to and knowledge of using methods such as behavioural testing and analyse, sample collection, processing, sectioning and staining of tissue
  
  
• Exposure and familiarity with molecular biology techniques including immunoprecipitation, real-time PCR, DNA purification and Western blotting
  
  
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team to undertake and complete research projects.
  
  
• High attention to detail and accuracy in experimental and administrative tasks.
  
  
• Working in a laboratory and awareness of laboratory safety protocols and procedures
  
  
• Ability to perform straight forward trouble-shooting on laboratory equipment
  
  
• Strong computer literacy including MS Office, database management and statistical analysis packages.
  
  

Compliance Requirements
*** The position involves laboratory-based work where tetanus immunisation is recommended in accordance with Macquarie University's health and safety guidelines.

Work Rights
Applicants must have current and valid work rights in Australia. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Specific Role Enquiries: Dr Magdalena Przybyla, Senior Research Fellow at [email protected]

General Recruitment Enquiries: Mirna Alaaiddin, Talent Acquisition Officer at [email protected]

Applications Close: Thursday May 8, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (AEST)

***We reserve the right to progress or decline applications prior to the closing date, and close the advertisement prior to the listed closing date.

Diversity and Inclusion

Innovation and ingenuity thrive at Macquarie University when diversity, equity and inclusion take centre stage. At the University, we embrace a culture where diversity of background, experience and perspective are fundamental to our success.

We do not discriminate on gender identity, age, culture, disability, sexuality, Indigeneity, family and caring responsibilities or religion. See our journey towards leadership in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education.

Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, explore our Candidate Resource Hub.