The Opportunity

The Cancer Preclinical Core Team provides centralised preclinical testing and biobanking services for the WA Kids Comprehensive Cancer Centre. The team works closely with researchers and clinicians to generate high-quality data that supports the development of new cancer treatments.

The Senior Research Officer supports the Team Head in coordinating in vitro drug screening, biobanking and contributing to decision making for in vivo and in vitro activities. The role focuses on maintaining high-quality research processes, supporting team operations, and collaborating with research and clinical partners to deliver impactful preclinical research outcomes.

Your responsibilities will include:

Standardise and optimise in vitro screening platforms to international standards.

Maintain SOPs, approvals and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Support oncology biobank operations, sample processing and stakeholder coordination.

Analyse research results to support decision-making and project delivery.

Prepare reports, proposals, manuscripts and research communications.

Collaborate with research and clinical partners, presenting outcomes and supporting team success.

Based at our offices in Perth Children’s Hospital, this is a 0.6 FTE opportunity in an ongoing capacity.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will hold a PhD in cancer biology, drug discovery or related fields along with the following:

Strong experimental design, data analysis and scientific problem-solving skills.

Experience with in vitro drug/radiation assays, quality control and data interpretation.

Experience coordinating biobanking activities, sample processing and record management.

Experience with mouse models, including PDX generation and characterisation.

Knowledge of biomedical research ethics, governance and regulatory requirements.

Strong project management, collaboration and communication skills.

Demonstrated initiative, organisation, problem-solving and attention to detail.

Experience mentoring staff and supporting laboratory operations.

At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we:

Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.

Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.

Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.

Partner with communities to strengthen cultural awareness and belonging.

Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.

We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.

Alongside our inclusive culture, you’ll enjoy:

Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.

Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.

Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.

Flexible and hybrid working options.

Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.

Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.

Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.

How to apply

If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application.

Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section.

Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contact ••••@thekids.org.au.

For more information about the role please contact: Meegan Howlett, Head, Cancer Preclinical Core

Contact Email: ••••@thekids.org.au

Closing Date: 13th August at 11:59pm - We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.