Who Are We?

At MCRI we share a powerful vision; to re-imagine the future of child health. We are the home to many life-changing scientific discoveries. We believe that no question is too impossible to try and answer. We are renowned for our cutting edge focus on early interventions, improved diagnosis, prevention and development of potential cures. Our success is founded on a philosophy of collaboration through a multi-disciplinary approach to solving the toughest questions in child health.

MCRI is a proud member of the Australian Network on Disability. We are committed to creating a positive working environment which values all backgrounds and experiences. We strive to foster an inclusive culture that is underpinned by equal opportunity for all and a culture based on respect, consideration and dignity. Don’t take our word for it, check what our employees are saying!

The Opportunity

We are looking for a research assistant to join the Neuro-oncology team.

A key part of your role will see you support the establishment of the Neuro-oncology lab within the Cell Biology Theme.

As our research assistant you will be experienced working with cellular and molecular biology of cancer and/or development, analysis of biochemical signalling pathways and processes.

This role will see you collaborate with a variety of stakeholders so it essential you are able to engage and continue to foster these relationships.

Although the main part of your role is focused on supporting Professor Eisenstat in the establishment of this new lab you will also be required to work on ethics applications, purchasing of dedicated equipment, infrastructure and re-establishment of transgenic reporter and gene knockout mice at the vivarium, as well as generation of novel genetically engineered mouse models (GEMM) of childhood cancer.

To be successful you are organised, have excellent attention to detail and are familiar with research work in the neuro-oncology or neurodevelopment space. In addition, preference will be given to those with experience in systems biology approaches, including ChIPseq and RNAseq.

You are passionate about the work we do and are ready to change the future of children’s health.

Your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Support the establishment of the Neuro-oncology lab within the Cell Biology Theme including ethics, purchasing equipment and transfer of mice, as well as other set up tasks
• Support the integration of the Neuro-oncology lab with other groups across the MCRI, the RCH, the Department of Paediatrics, and the VCCC
• Assist in building links with existing and new childhood cancer research programs and investigators located at the MCRI
• Conducts ethical research at the highest level of integrity and in line with the Australian Code for Responsible Conduct of Research and MCRI policies
• Conducting experiments under the direction of the supervisor and for the evaluation of research staff and students
• Delivering experimental outcomes on time in accordance with agreed planning within the team
• Maintaining full documentation and filing of all material, data and lab books

You Demonstrate:

• Degree/Honours/Masters qualification in Science or related discipline
• Appropriate level of expertise gained from a combination of experience, training or professional accreditation
• Experience either in neuro-oncology or neurodevelopment, potentially including mouse or cellular models of neurodevelopmental disease.
• Experience with systems biology approaches using established methods such as ChIPseq and RNAseq
• Demonstrated capacity to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Excellent time management, organisational and analytical problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets, database programs, statistics and word processing
• Demonstrated understanding of a range of research methodologies and their application in empirical research

On Offer:

• 3 year Full time contract
• Salary Range $88,673pa + super + salary packaging
• On-site facilities include:, childcare, Employee Assistance Program, mindfulness, gym, and bike storage… to highlight a few

Apply Now

Direct applications via email do not apply.

For a full list of responsibilities and the key selection criteria download the attached position description.

Only applicants who address the key selection criteria will be considered. In one document please place your cover letter, key selection criteria, and resume. Applications will only be considered when submitted via the MCRI website.

For specific questions not answered in the PD please contact Prof David Eisenstat [email protected] or [email protected], using the subject line: Research Assistant - Neuro-oncology enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Existing MCRI and VCGS staff (excluding Unpaid non-managers and non Graduate Research Students) are required to apply through the MCRI internal site only. Navigate to Nucleus--> Talent Management--> Careers to submit the application.

Click apply to proceed with your application.

Position Reference: 23753

On occasions where we receive a large number of applications, we may close the advert ahead of the publicised closing date. We would therefore advise that you submit your completed application as soon as possible.