Job description:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the Blood Development Laboratory at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), working under the supervision of Dr Jana Hagen and Prof. Andrew Elefanty. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative research focused on generating blood cells from human pluripotent stem cells.

In this role, you will be involved in:

• Optimising and refining blood cell differentiation protocols
• Characterising haematopoietic cells derived from pluripotent stem cells
• Investigating the roles of transcription factors and growth factors in human blood development
• Developing efficient methods for the large-scale production of functional neutrophils for potential clinical applications

Key Objectives:

The primary aim of this position is to help establish a streamlined, reproducible differentiation protocol for producing clinically relevant neutrophils. These efforts will contribute to improving outcomes for patients with neutropenia and advancing stem cell-based therapies.

About the Team

The Blood Development Laboratory is part of MCRI's Stem Cell Medicine Theme, a vibrant research hub of more than 280 experts in stem cell biology, gene editing, transcriptomics, phosphoproteomics, and bioengineering. The lab is closely aligned with the Blood and Immune Development Laboratories and is a member of the international reNEW (Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine) consortium - a collaboration between leading institutes in Australia, Denmark, and the Netherlands dedicated to advancing safe and effective stem cell-based therapies.

About You

We are looking for candidates who are enthusiastic, well-organised, and passionate about translational stem cell research. Experience in cell culture, flow cytometry, and molecular biology techniques will be highly regarded.

• Relevant tertiary degree and experience with tissue culture and sterile techniques
• Experience with differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells and animal transplantation and infection models
• Experience with and understanding of state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques
• Familiarity with microscopy techniques, immunofluorescence labelling, and confocal analysis

For full viewing of responsibilities and requirements please refer to the position description.

Any specific questions related to this position should be directed to Prof Andrew Elefanty at [email protected].

What's in it for you?

• Benefit from salary packaging, including entertainment and novated leases
• Work at Australia's leading child health research institute
• Collaborate with international leaders in stem cell and regenerative medicine
• Make a meaningful contribution to improving patient outcomes

Who we are

Murdoch Children's Research Institute envisions a transformative future for child health. Our institute is a hub of impactful scientific breakthroughs, particularly in early interventions, enhanced diagnosis, prevention, and potential cures. We thrive on collaborative, multidisciplinary problem-solving to address challenging queries in child health. Committed to inclusivity and respect, we foster a positive working environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences. As a proud member of the Australian Network on Disability and a dedicated supporter of Science Australia Gender Equity (SAGE), we uphold principles of equal opportunity and diverse representation.

We are committed to the safety of children and young people and takes a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse, exploitation and harm. Child safety is prioritised in our decision-making at all levels of the Institute.

Join Us!

If you believe this role is a good fit for you, please apply by submitting:

• Your resume
• A cover letter addressing the selection criteria
  

Ensure these documents are combined into a single PDF file.

We welcome individuals of diverse genders, ages, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, abilities, religions, and sexual orientations in our workplace. We actively encourage talented individuals from all walks of life to apply for our job openings. Our commitment lies in fostering a workplace that is barrier-free and inclusive, aiming to attract the most skilled candidates.

For any questions related to the recruitment process, feel free to reach out to our Recruitment team at [email protected]. Ensure that you include the position number and job title in the subject line. Please refrain from sharing your application to this email address.

Please note, we reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the closing date once a sufficient number of applications have been received.

No recruitment agencies please.

Position Description

Applications close: 28 May 2025 AUS Eastern Daylight time