Senior Research Assistant (Laboratory Based)

Full job description
$84,470 to $+3,865 pa (HEW 5)

Full-Time, Fixed Term Contract (12 months), Joondalup campus

Open to candidates with the relevant working rights

SENIOR RESEARCH ASSISTANT (LABORATORY BASED)
SCHOOL OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
JOONDALUP CAMPUS
$84,470 to $+3,865 pa (HEW 5)
FULL TIME, FIXED TERM (12 MONTHS)

The Opportunity
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our dynamic melanoma research team. This role will support our biobanking program and contribute to cutting-edge discovery research aimed at understanding the biology of melanoma and improving patient outcomes.

As a key member of the team, you will be involved in the collection, processing, and management of biospecimens, as well as assisting with laboratory-based experiments and data management. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful translational research in a collaborative and supportive environment.

The Translational Melanoma Research Group, is within the Centre for Precision Health School and the School of Medical and Health Sciences. The team is internationally recognised for their expertise in the quantification and characterisation of blood-based biomarkers, including circulating tumour cells and circulating tumour DNA, to guide treatment selection, monitor response and inform treatment decisions in melanoma patients. The laboratory oversees the collection and curation of a large blood biobank from cancer patients to support translational research, from discovery to clinical validation.

The Senior Research Assistant role is located within the Translational Melanoma Research Group and is responsible for the provision of research support to the Group including conducting laboratory based experiments and participating in the drafting of reports, research papers and contributions to journal articles.

Responsibilities

Strict adherence to study protocols;
Be proficient in sample analysis using molecular techniques
Sourcing new and innovative ways to improve techniques within the laboratory
Patient, clinical and experimental data entry with accuracy into a database;
Maintaining, auditing and implementing changes to sample tracking database;
Contributing to the writing of standard operating procedures and other manuals; and
Working with liquid nitrogen, using sterile techniques and maintaining a sterile laboratory environment.

Skills and Experience

A University degree in science, applied science, health or a health related discipline;
Strong attention to detail;
Understanding of good laboratory practice guidelines;
Ability to carry out duties under supervision as well as autonomously;
Ability to troubleshoot methodologies independently;
Excellent computer skills;
Excellent data entry skills;
Ability to accurately maintain data and an interest in supporting research activity;
Good writing skills;
Previous laboratory experience including blood processing, cell culture and sterile technique;
Experience in basic molecular biology techniques;
Experience in immunoassays (i.e. ICC, IHC, flow cytometry); and
Evidence of experience in a similar role.

It will be a requirement for this role to have a pre-employment medical assessment.

You will also demonstrate personal attributes that are congruent with the University’s values of Integrity, Respect, Rational Inquiry, Personal Excellence and Courage.

Benefits & Remuneration
This full time, fixed-term position attracts remuneration of $84,470 to $+3,865 pa plus 17% University superannuation contribution.

For information on the benefits of working at ECU, please visit our Employment Opportunities website.

Contact
Interested applicants are welcome to call Dr Elin Gray on 08 6304 2756 for more information.

How to Apply
Please upload your resume along with a statement addressing the skills and experience outlined above. attached for role context.

Closing Date:
Applications close on Sunday 6 July 2025 at 11:30pm AWST.

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED FROM CANDIDATES WHO HAVE THE RELEVANT WORKING RIGHTS TO FILL THIS POSITION.

ECU is a diverse and inclusive workplace reflecting the differences in society. Specific strategies and initiatives are in place to address underrepresentation of specific groups. Applications are encouraged from suitably qualified people from all backgrounds. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

Position description