Research Assistant

Role Type & Department

This is a Full Time and Fixed Term position until 31 December 2026, within the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, specifically in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at the University of Melbourne.

The salary offered for this Research Assistant role ranges from $79,677 to $87,266 per annum, plus 17% superannuation.

About the University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne prides itself on its people, who collectively contribute to its mission of benefiting society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more about their values and vision on their website.

Your Next Career Opportunity as a Research Assistant

As a Research Assistant in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology, you will play a vital role investigating how pathways from the gut modify anxiety states. You'll collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, contributing to physiology studies and device development. This position offers you the chance to enhance your research skills, participate in animal studies, and contribute to the preparation of research publications.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducting Stress Hormone Analysis: Take primary responsibility for collecting and measuring stress hormones and related biomarkers.
• Assisting in Animal Research: Participate in animal surgeries and monitoring, including behavioural testing.
• Contributing to Data Analysis: Utilise specialised programs for qualitative/quantitative data assessment, such as GraphPad Prism and Microsoft Excel.
• Supporting Research Publications: Co-produce conference and seminar papers, and present research findings at conferences and seminars.

Who We Are Looking For

You will be an experienced researcher with a background in animal-based experiments, possessing excellent communication skills and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.

Ideal candidates may also have:

• A BSc (hons) degree or equivalent in a relevant area.
• Demonstrated experience in working with small laboratory animals and conducting animal-based research experiments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective research collaboration.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Practical knowledge in assays of bioactive molecules and experience in small animal surgery.

What We Offer You

The University of Melbourne offers a vibrant community and a comprehensive range of benefits:

• Supportive flexible work arrangements, committed to inclusion and well-being.
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance.
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services, including Bupa health insurance.
• Health and well-being services, including a leading Employee Assistance Program.

Your New Team: Department of Anatomy and Physiology

The Department of Anatomy and Physiology is a world-leading research hub within the School of Biomedical Sciences. It houses 35 cutting-edge laboratories exploring Metabolic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Muscle Biology, Neuroscience, and Stem Cell and Developmental Biology. You'll join a dynamic team with access to state-of-the-art facilities, diverse funding streams, and exceptional training opportunities, positioning the department at the forefront of disease-focused research.

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation, committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace. They welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Reasonable adjustments are provided throughout the recruitment process and ongoing workplace support.

Application Requirements

Please note: This role requires current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available. A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required for all positions, and the University will guide you through the process and reimburse the cost.

If this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
• Responses against the Selection Criteria (found in the Position Description)

Key Skills/Competency

• Gut-brain axis research
• Animal research
• Stress hormone analysis
• Data analysis
• GraphPad Prism
• Microsoft Excel
• Research publication
• Behavioural testing
• Small animal surgery
• Biomarker measurement