The Clinical Research Assistant reports to the Group Leader – Airways Diseases Biology Group and sits within the Ludwig Engel Centre for Respiratory Research.

The Clinical Research Assistant will play an integral part in coordinating clinical research projects conducted within the Westmead Precinct (WIMR and Western Sydney Local Health District [WSLHD]), including recruitment of participants, collecting data, handling of biological specimens, managing records, and maintaining compliance with human research ethics requirements.

Key areas of responsibility include:

Assist in the conduct of clinical research projects according to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards, and the policies and procedures of WIMR and WSLHD.

Assist in the development of clinical research project documentation and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Assist in the recruitment of participants in research projects, in a hospital clinic and non-clinical settings, when required.

Database management and data entry into various platforms, including building and maintaining REDCap database, and other online/desktop databases eg MEDRIO, MS Excel, etc.

Maintain meticulous record keeping and documentation for all clinical research project matters

Assist with laboratory research activities occasionally as required.

Act strictly according to laboratory SOPs and scientific protocols.

Ensure all procedures are performed with special reference to quality assurance and immediately notify supervisor of any abnormality which may cast doubt.

Adhere to strict infection control policies and procedures when dealing with clinical research participants and handling biological specimens.

Make independent decisions on routine issues and see assistance from senior researchers when required.

Maintain technical/scientific expertise and work to expand breadth of technical knowledge.

Communication of results to relevant stakeholders: preparation of abstracts, publications and presentation of results in internal and external meetings.

Attendance and presentation of results at other relevant meetings eg. WIMR lab meetings.

To be successful in this role you will need to have the following education, experience, knowledge, and attributes:

Education and Experience

Essential:

Bachelor Degree in biological/medical sciences, nursing, or allied health

Experience in interacting with clinical research participants

Experience in working with clinical research records/databases, e.g. REDCap

Desirable:

Experience in collecting, handling, and/or processing human biospecimens

Experience with hospital/HREA systems eg PowerChart, REGIS, etc

Skills/Knowledge

Understanding of the principles of GCP in research

Computing skills including the use of databases, spreadsheets, and statistical software

Strong organisational and record keeping skills as applied to research study documents/data, lab books, and results.

Ability to strictly follow research protocols and laboratory standard operating procedures and report (verbally and written) if variation may occur.

Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills

Behaviours/Attributes

Strong communication skills (written and verbal), time management, negotiation and interpersonal skills.

Strong commitment to the ethical conduct of human research, including respect for research participants.

Be team oriented and willing to learn.

Ability to work independently while taking instruction as required

About WIMR

At the Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR), we focus on tackling real-world health challenges through research that leads to tangible clinical outcomes. Our work spans cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and neurological conditions, with the goal of turning scientific breakthroughs into treatments that improve lives.

We specialise in precision medicine, leveraging advanced technologies such as gene and cell therapies, bacteriophage and plasmid therapies, islet transplantation, bioinformatics, regenerative medicine, and genomics. Our discoveries progress to first-in-human clinical trials through partnerships with the Westmead Health Precinct and national collaborators, ensuring rapid translation into patient care. Beyond the clinic, we work closely with industry partners to bridge gaps in healthcare, ensuring that new therapies and innovations reach those who need them most, on a global scale.

Why join us?

Unmatched Clinical Access and Global Impact – Conduct research with direct access to patient samples and clinical networks within the Westmead Health Precinct, ensuring rapid translation of discoveries into real-world treatments that benefit diverse populations.

Collaborative and High-Impact Research Environment – Be part of a multidisciplinary team of leading scientists and clinician-researchers, tackling complex health challenges and turning precision medicine innovations into transformative therapies.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Infrastructure – Work in a state-of-the-art research facility equipped with world-leading platforms and specialised research capabilities. Our cutting-edge resources support biobanking, bioinformatics, bioresources, cytometry, electron microscopy, genomics, histology, imaging, preclinical imaging, and biomedical proteomics, enabling groundbreaking discoveries and medical advancements. Our latest technological investments include:

Xenium and CytAssist – Combining genomics with ultra-high-resolution imaging to map individual cells in tissue biopsies, aiding precision treatments for transplant rejection and disease progression.

Rhapsody System – Analysing the genetic signatures of thousands of individual cells at once, identifying critical drug-resistant tumour cells and advancing cancer and transplant therapies.

QIAcuity Digital PCR System – Enabling ultra-sensitive detection of genetic material, allowing for early disease detection and precise patient monitoring for infections and genetic disorders.

VS200 Slide Scanner – Enhancing microscopic imaging contrast for detailed disease analysis, accelerating early diagnosis and treatment development, particularly in cancer research.

World-Class Facilities and Work Environment – Conduct research in a modern, award winning, and architecturally designed building, featuring a professional café, secure bike storage, showering amenities, and state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, providing a comfortable and well-equipped environment for innovation and collaboration.

Flexible work arrangement (via agreement with management)

Close to public transport, including the Parramatta Light Rail

Not-for-profit ability to salary sacrifice for tax benefits

Option for novated leasing

Paid parental leave program

Access to employee assistance program

Applications close 19 September 2025

The Westmead Institute for Medical Research is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion. We value and acknowledge the importance of our people’s diverse experiences, talents and cultures that they bring to work with them each day. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of attracting and retaining talent in our workforce. The creation of a diverse and inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential, enhance our success and achieving our vision to improve health outcomes.

www.wimr.org.au