Research Assistant in Sydney

Salary package: From $102,136 per annum (HEW Level 6) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading. Appointment type – Full-time (part-time considered), fixed-term contract for 2 years at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde.

Use your molecular biology skills to help detect cancer earlier through liquid biopsy research. A single tube of blood can carry traces of a tumour long before conventional tests find it. Liquid biopsy is reshaping how cancer is detected, monitored and treated, and the quality of that science rests on meticulous sample handling and reliable laboratory data.

As a Research Assistant in the cancer research team at Macquarie Medical School, you will help generate exactly that. Working within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, you will process and analyse human biological samples, contribute to the investigation of circulating tumour-derived biomarkers and molecular features of cancer, and help build the datasets that underpin publications and future clinical translation.

Structured training will be provided in liquid biopsy methodologies and related molecular biology techniques, so you can extend your technical repertoire while contributing from day one. This is a valuable opportunity for an early-career researcher with a foundation in molecular biology who enjoys precise bench work and wants to grow within a research-intensive environment.

You will work closely with the lead researcher and wider cancer research team, with access to modern laboratory facilities, professional development programs and a research community spanning biomedical, translational and health services domains.

About the Role

Reporting to the Deputy Dean, Research and Innovation and working under appropriate supervision, you will provide technical and research assistance across the cancer research program.

Responsibilities

• Performing routine laboratory procedures and molecular biology techniques in line with established protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Receiving, processing, aliquoting and storing biological samples, including blood-derived specimens, with close attention to sample integrity and traceability.
• Undertaking training in liquid biopsy methodologies and contributing to the analysis of circulating tumour-derived biomarkers and other molecular analytes.
• Assisting with nucleic acid extraction, quality assessment and preparation of samples for downstream molecular analyses, including sequencing applications.
• Recording, organising and maintaining experimental and sample data in laboratory records, databases and electronic systems, with appropriate version control.
• Assisting with quality control, preliminary data processing, targeted literature searches and the preparation of datasets, figures, tables, reports and manuscripts.
• Identifying and reporting protocol deviations, technical issues or unexpected results, and maintaining laboratory areas, equipment and reagents in line with research governance, ethics, biosafety and WHS requirements.

Please note that work hours may vary from time to time to accommodate operational needs.

About You

You are a methodical laboratory scientist who takes pride in accurate, well-documented results and consistent technique. You have a foundation in molecular biology, an eye for detail when handling samples and recording data, and an interest in extending your skills into liquid biopsy and advanced molecular methods within a multidisciplinary research team.

Selection Criteria

• Tertiary qualification in molecular biology, biomedical science, biotechnology, medical science or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated foundational knowledge of molecular biology, with practical laboratory experience gained through undergraduate study, research projects, honours or equivalent.
• Demonstrated ability to follow laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures accurately, including when performing repetitive or technically sensitive work.
• High level of attention to detail across sample handling, experimental procedures and data recording, with well-developed organisational skills to maintain complete laboratory records.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new laboratory techniques quickly and apply training accurately, and to progress routine tasks while recognising when guidance is needed.
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to raise experimental issues, unexpected results or protocol deviations with supervisors and to work effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.
• Working knowledge of WHS principles and safe laboratory practice, along with computer skills to enter, organise and manage research data.

Desired Experience

• Experience in a research-intensive environment.
• Experience with nucleic acid extraction, cell-free DNA extraction, PCR/digital PCR, next generation sequencing or other molecular biology techniques.
• Experience working with human biological samples or blood-derived specimens.
• Experience with DNA/RNA quality assessment or sample preparation for sequencing and other molecular analyses.

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, 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. We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

What we offer?

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements.
• 17% Superannuation.
• Subsidised onsite parking options.
• Extensive training and professional development programs.
• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents.
• Onsite vacation care during school holidays.
• Discounted health insurance.
• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support.
• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics.

Our values

Collective Ambition, Purposeful Collaboration, Bold Innovation, and Genuine Care are at the heart of everything we do and by living our values, we unlock the true potential of You to the Power of Us. Our values guide how we work, lead and support one another. We know Macquarie is at its best when we live our values every day.

Fostering Belonging

Our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework 2024-2028 and our Flexible Work approach support Macquarie’s vision by building a community where everyone truly feels safe and like they belong. We acknowledge the richness of each individual’s identity and the potential that brings. This diversity amplifies You to the Power of Us and creates an inclusive environment that leads to better outcomes for all. Through a nurturing and fair environment, we are a workplace that enables you to balance both your personal needs and professional goals.

A Place Where You Belong

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community.

Please contact Bill Egarchos, Talent Acquisition Consultant at bill.egarchos@mq.edu.au.