Research Assistant – Vaccine Functional Assay Development Full-time

Research Assistant

Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 12 months. Base salary will be in the range $77,545.50 – $82,218.84 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 4). Based at our St Lucia Campus.

The Research Assistant will support ongoing research projects and contribute to the smooth day-to-day operation of the Walker research group.

The projects encompass (1) cloning and purification of recombinant forms of the antigens, undertaking and developing biochemical assays for vaccine development. Characterisation experiments will include ELISA and biochemical assays, (2) assisting in vaccine efficacy studies and undertaking tasks involved in vaccine assessment including animal studies, (3) assist in the assessment of serological response to vaccines using Luminex assays and other associated immunological studies.

Key responsibilities will include:

Research

• Conduct research in the agreed area; perform core laboratory tasks including preparation of samples and reagents, ordering and maintaining supplies, and general lab management.
• Perform basic microbiology, immunology, molecular biology and biochemistry techniques for manipulation of DNA and assist with mouse handling infection procedures.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, postgraduates and undergraduates in the completion of their research projects.
• Monitor laboratory animals outside business hours when required and assist in preparing ethics applications and reports.
• Provide induction and basic training for new staff and students, fostering safe and effective laboratory practices.

Safety

• Contributes to the safe and efficient operation of research equipment, infrastructure, methodologies and protocols.
• Applies safe storage, handling and disposal techniques to chemicals, equipment, stores and/or samples/specimens.

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world. Everyone here has a role to play. As a member of our professional staff cohort, you will be actively involved in working towards our vision of a better world. By supporting the academic endeavour across teaching, research, and the student life, you will have the opportunity to contribute to activities that have a lasting impact on our community.

Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:

• Up to 26 weeks paid parental leave/paid primary care leave
• 17% superannuation contributions + 17.5% annual leave loading
• Access to flexible working arrangements including flexible start/finish times, purchased leave, and a condensed fortnight
• Health and wellness discounts – fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family
• Career development opportunities –access to exclusive internal-only vacancies and our Study for Staff program
• On campus childcare options
• Affordable parking (from just $6.40 a day)
• Salary packaging options

Minimum diploma level qualification majoring in biochemistry, or molecular biology, or an equivalent combination of experience and education/training. Demonstrated experience with microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, and biochemistry laboratory techniques. Experience with protein expression and purification, Luminex assays, and conducting microbiology and immunology studies. Proficiency in bacterial culture and aseptic techniques. Willingness to assist with laboratory animal handling and associated procedures, including occasional out of business hours animal checks. Strong ability to rapidly learn new laboratory techniques and perform them accurately, efficiently, and to a high standard. Sound knowledge of OH&S requirements, laboratory safety practices, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Capacity to plan, execute and interpret research work semi-independently, supported by strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, which may include verification of the right to work in Australia. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements. You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Mark Walker | Professorial Research Fellow & Group Leader at mark.walker@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload: Resume and a cover letter summarising how your background aligns with the 'About You' section.

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent, particularly from Australia's First Nations Peoples. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don't meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close Friday 27 March 2026, 11.00pm AEST (R-61721). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for the week commencing Monday 6 April.