Research Assistant

Role Type: 24-month full time contract

Salary: $86,485 p.a plus super

The Opportunity

Kick-start your research career at a world-leading institute transforming child health outcomes globally, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge molecular and cell biology techniques. Working alongside leading scientists, you’ll design experiments, generate impactful data, and contribute to research that translates into real-world clinical advances. You’ll build your skills in a collaborative and supportive environment that values curiosity, integrity, and innovation, while making a meaningful difference in shaping the future of precision child health.

About Your New Team

Join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team within the Reproductive Development Group, working alongside leading researchers to advance understanding of human development and congenital conditions. You’ll be supported by experienced mentors in an inclusive environment that values teamwork, knowledge-sharing, and scientific excellence.

What You’ll Do

• Design and independently conduct molecular and cell biology experiments in collaboration with team members
• Apply rigorous ethical standards and comply with research codes and institute policies
• Analyse, interpret, and regularly present research findings to supervisors and colleagues
• Contribute to grant applications, publications, and related research outputs
• Maintain accurate lab records, data management systems, and organised experimental documentation
  
  

What You’ll Bring

• Relevant undergraduate degree (with honours or masters) in a relevant topic – biology, biomedical or genetics
• Strong background in molecular and cellular biology techniques
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, presenting, and data reporting
• Genuine interest in human congenital conditions and reproductive development
  
  

Please view the position description here.

Any questions? Reach out to A/Prof Katie Ayers katie.ayers@mcri.edu.au.

What You’ll Enjoy

• Hands-on experience with advanced molecular and cell biology techniques in a leading research environment focused on child health and developmental science.
• A collaborative, supportive team culture that values learning, innovation, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, real-world research impact.
• Play a key role in advancing work at Australia’s largest child health research institute
• Enjoy a variety of flexible work arrangements – Ask People Leader how many days the role will be required to be onsite.
• Feel supported through our health and wellbeing program, which includes complimentary access to the Employee Assistance Program
• Take advantage of generous personal leave and the option to purchase additional leave to suit your lifestyle
  
  

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.

Apply now!

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 recruitment@mcri.edu.au. 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.

Applications close: Friday 1 May 2026

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