Research Assistant

We are seeking a Research Assistant to conduct laboratory research within the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity.

Founded in 1853, the University of Melbourne is Australia’s #1 university and is consistently ranked amongst the leading universities in the world. We are proud of our people, our commitment to research and teaching excellence, and our global engagement.

About the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity
The Doherty Institute is a world-class institute combining research in infectious disease and immunity with teaching excellence, reference laboratory diagnostic services, epidemiology and clinical services. It is a joint venture between the University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health.

Further information about the Doherty Institute is available at: http://www.doherty.unimelb.edu.au

About the Role
This position is fixed term until December 2022

The Research Assistant will conduct laboratory research in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity. We are interested in understanding the nature of immunity against SARS-CoV-2 and other agents of infectious diseases in humans and animal models, and whether such responses can be harnessed for improved protective vaccines.

With support and guidance from senior academic staff, the Research Assistant will oversee the processing and biobanking of human clinical samples, and test novel vaccine concepts in animal immunisation models.

In a typical week at work, you may:

• Independently, or under limited supervision, plan and carry out experiments focused on completion of research project aims

• Carry out experiments related to the project ethically, accurately and productively
• Contribute to supervision and training of students in the laboratory setting

About You
Your excellent oral and written communications skills, allowing you to work as an effective part of a research team, interacting in a courteous manner with a wide range of staff. You will be experienced in cell culture, and undertake administrative duties relating to management of both the research laboratory and department.

Ideally, you will further have:

• BSc (Honours) degree or equivalent with a major in immunology, microbiology or a related discipline
• Proven ability to work with senior researchers and help design, perform and analyse experiments in a timely manner
• Strong organisation skills and accurate recording and analysis of data generated from research undertaken

Benefits of Working with Us
In addition to having the opportunity to grow and be challenged, and to be part of a vibrant campus life, our people enjoy a range of rewarding benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements and generous personal, parental and cultural leave
• Competitive remuneration, 17% super, salary packaging and leave loading
• Free and subsidised health and wellbeing services, and access to fitness and cultural clubs
• Discounts on a wide range of products and services including Myki cards and Qantas Club
• Career development opportunities and 25% off graduate courses for staff and their immediate families

To find out more, please visit https://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/staff-benefits.

Be Yourself
At UoM, we value the unique backgrounds, experiences and contributions that each person brings to our community, and we encourage and celebrate diversity. Indigenous Australians, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, females, people of all ages and culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply for our roles. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

Join Us!

If you feel this role is right for you, please submit your application including a brief cover letter, your resume and your responses against the selection criteria* (found in the Position Description) for the role.

*For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/selection-criteria

Should you require any reasonable adjustments with the recruitment process, please contact the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected].

Due to the impacts of COVID-19, we are currently prioritising applications with current valid working rights in Australia and candidates who are not affected by travel restrictions. Please see the latest updates to Australia's immigration and border arrangements: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/