Research Associate in Avian Developmental Biology Full-time

Research Associate in Avian Developmental Biology

Join the TREE Lab at Parkville, working with Professor Andrew Pask and Dr Axel Newton to interrogate how genomes shape body plans. You will gain hands-on experience in embryo culture and perturbation, gene editing (e.g. CRISPR) and single-cell genomic analyses, while contributing to publications and training early-career researchers.

You may be a great fit if you are an early-career researcher with practical experience in embryo culture or manipulation and gene-editing workflows, strong molecular/genomic analysis skills, and a collaborative, publication-focused mindset.

You may also:

• Possess practical experience in vertebrate embryology, embryo culture and imaging.
• Have hands-on skills in gene editing (e.g. CRISPR) and functional genomics, including single-cell transcriptomic workflows.
• Be experienced in preparing scientific data, writing reports and contributing to high-quality manuscripts.
• Demonstrate strong teamwork, communication skills and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• Hold relevant research experience and/or qualifications and are eager to develop independent research capabilities.

What we offer you! We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfilment, including:

• Build future financial security with 17% superannuation
• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs, such as Academic Women in Leadership, and learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance and well-being, including leading parental leave, gender affirmation leave and cultural leave
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, and access to unique cultural and recreational benefits such as discounts for the Melbourne Theatre Company
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

Your new team – “BioSciences” The University of Melbourne's School of BioSciences offers a dynamic research environment, with over 150 academic staff addressing critical biological challenges across diverse fields. From climate change and biosecurity to reproductive health and food production, the school leads more than 240 research projects in areas such as ecology, evolution, marine biology, genetics, and data science.

The TIGRR Lab Our team has a diverse skillset in the fields of morphology, developmental biology, evolution, stem cell biology, genetics (incl. population), genomics, bioinformatics and conservation. Together, we possess the skills and technical know-how to accelerate the field of conservation genetics and de-extinction.

Be Yourself The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at oied-hr@unimelb.edu.au.

Application essentials:

• Visit “apply with us” to learn more about the process, including tips and FAQs.
• You must have current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
• A Working with Children Check is required for all positions. If successful, we will guide you through the process and reimburse you.
• Please upload your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and experience as part of the application process.
• Please upload your responses to the Selection Criteria, found in the Position Description.

Want to know more? For questions related to our recruitment process email Anna at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au. For recruitment adjustments contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments'). Apply today, and join a community that's shaping the future.

Applications close: 22nd March 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.