Research Assistant
Macquarie University
Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie University
Full-Time
$86,087
HybridAssociate
Support pioneering neuroscience, advance discovery and help shape the future of Parkinson's research
Are you ready to bring your laboratory expertise to research that matters? Join the 2IR NeuroHub within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences and play a hands-on part in uncovering the biological mechanisms behind neurodegenerative movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Lewy Body Dementia.
Working alongside Professor Nicolas Dzamko and a multidisciplinary team, you will provide technical and operational expertise across a range of cutting-edge techniques - from human biosample processing and biobanking to induced pluripotent stem cell models. Your work will directly enable studies that aim to improve the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
About the Role
As Research Assistant, Neuroscience, you will provide technical and operational input to laboratory-based research investigating molecular, cellular and pathological changes associated with disease vulnerability, progression and treatment. Your responsibilities will include:
Undertaking routine laboratory procedures in line with established protocols, including human biosample processing, biobanking and biomarker measurements.
Maintaining and running experiments using cell culture models, including induced pluripotent stem cells.
Preparing laboratory reagents, buffers, solutions and consumables to enable experimental workflows.
Helping develop specialised techniques such as antibody-based assays, multiplex labelling, seed amplification assays, mass spectrometry, flow cytometry and cell imaging.
Collecting, recording and organising experimental data, maintaining accurate records and helping build result databases with basic statistical analysis.
Contributing to the publication and dissemination of research outcomes.
Helping maintain laboratory facilities, stock management and compliance with biosafety and WHS requirements.
Providing input to students and colleagues within the scope of the role.
About Us
The Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences (FMHHS) is enthusiastically pushing the boundaries of progressive thinking to help solve some of the big issues of our time, both nationally and on a global scale. The Faculty forms part of MQ Health, an integrated academic health sciences enterprise which incorporates Macquarie University Hospital and primary and speciality clinics. We have active research programs in biomedical and clinical sciences, cognitive and brain sciences, health systems, linguistics, physiotherapy, psychology and public health, among others. Our Faculty hosts the Australian Institute of Health Innovation (AIHI), an internationally acclaimed centre researching health systems, e-health and patient safety.
About You
You are a detail-oriented laboratory professional who enjoys precise, protocol-driven work and thrives as part of a collaborative research team. You bring sound technical knowledge, careful record-keeping and a genuine interest in contributing to meaningful neuroscience research.
Selection Criteria
Completion of a degree in biomedical science, neuroscience, molecular biology or a related discipline.
Demonstrated experience in a laboratory or technical environment.
Experience in performing one or more of: human biosample processing, flow cytometry, cell culture, ELISA, immunoblotting, seed amplification, microscopy, stem cell differentiation or omics-based approaches.
Careful attention to detail and the ability to follow established procedures and protocols accurately.
Well-developed organisational and time management skills, with the capacity to manage multiple tasks and troubleshoot.
Ability to work on site during normal business hours (immunisation Category A certification required).
*Due to the nature of the work, this role is based on site.
How to Apply
To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).
Applications Close: 15 July 2026
For role specific enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Professor Nicolas Dzamko at nicolas.dzamko@mq.edu.au
We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
Please note that only applicants with full working rights in Australia who are currently based in Australia will be considered.
Why Join Us?
Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.
Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
17% Superannuation
Subsidised onsite parking options
Extensive training and professional development programs
Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
Onsite vacation care during school holidays
Discounted health insurance
Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics
Pre-Employment Checks
Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workdayand go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.
Applications Close:
15/07/2026 11:59 PM
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.