About the role

Mater Research are looking for a Senior Research Assistant to join the team! This part-time, maximum term role will be based at our South Brisbane campus.

Mater Research is a recognised leader in medical research. Our bench to bedside philosophy sees us working across Mater Health’s hospitals and health services, The University of Queensland, and the world-class Translational Research Institute (TRI).

We are committed to working closely with Mater Health, Mater Education and our growing network of partners and collaborators to turn scientific discovery into the best possible treatment, care, and outcomes for patients and our broader community.

Salary range: $42.71 - $46.03 per hour plus superannuation and access to not-for-profit salary packaging up to $15,900  + access to many staff benefits! 

What you’ll be doing

The Senior Research Assistant will contribute toward the research effort of the Hume/Irvine groups across several funded projects focused on the group’s interests. The researcher will need to be able to work independently and coordinate the activity of other team members to work collaboratively toward delivering research outputs using experimental approaches spanning preclinical models, histology and molecular biology analyses. The researcher will participate in design, planning and implementation of experiments as well as collation and analysis of generated data. They will provide expert level technical support to the Group Leader and postdoctoral researchers within the team. Responsibilities include:

• Actively collaborate with and assist in coordinating other team members to successfully complete hypothesis driven experimentation to the highest quality and ethical standard
• Independently upskill and attain competency in new techniques as required
• Share in responsibility for general lab management, ordering, compliance, and safe work practice
• Maintain laboratory logs and databases
• Participate in professional activities including attendance at laboratory meetings, Institute meetings and relevant seminars
• Contribute to the preparation of scholarly papers, contract research reports and grant applications, particularly with respect to preparation of methodology sections

About you

The successful candidate will possess the following knowledge, experience, or attributes:

• A bachelor’s degree in science or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant workplace experience, with completion of an honours degree viewed favourably. 
• At least 3 years’ experience in the execution of experiments and experimental techniques including tissue processing, histology, imaging and analysis.
• Demonstrated understanding of macrophage biology, with knowledge and experience in molecular biology viewed favourable.
• An ability to rapidly acquire knowledge and technical expertise related to the research specialty.
• High level written and verbal communication skills, including experience in writing scientific documents.
• Appropriate digital literacy skills including the use of Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, statistical analysis software, Endnote referencing tool, and NCBI Resources including PubMed.

Why join us?

Mater is Queensland’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, delivering exceptional care to nearly 700,000 patients each year across 11 (soon to be 12) hospitals. We’re leaders in healthcare, education,  fundraising & philanthropy and research — and it’s our people who make the difference.

We’re looking for passionate individuals to join our team and help shape the future of care. At Mater, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation that values innovation, compassion, and excellence.

• Increase your take-home pay with generous salary packaging options, including meal and entertainment benefits
• Grow your career with access to industry-leading training and professional development through Mater Education
• Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Program and on-site pastoral care teams
• Access a range of health and wellbeing services with a corporate discount on private health insurance
• Exclusive discounts across dining, retail, travel, accommodation (just to name a few!)
• Stay active with unlimited access to discounted gyms via the Fitness Passport program
• Convenient, discounted on-site parking
• Enjoy great food with reduced prices at our campus cafés and coffee spots
• Join Queensland’s Largest and Most Innovative Not-for-Profit Healthcare Team.

Be part of something bigger. Make your move with Mater. #GETBETTERWITHMATER

Applications close April 23rd –please note, we may contact applicants prior to the closing date, please do not hesitate to APPLY NOW. Direct applications only — we are not engaging recruitment agencies at this time. All successful candidates may be required to complete pre‑employment checks (including criminal history, working rights, medical and working with children checks).

Mater offers a safe, supportive, flexible and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. Visit our Reconciliation webpage. 

Mater ensures all children have an environment suitable for their safety and wellbeing through proper supervision and safeguarding practices.