Research Assistant in Cancer Cell Biology and Cancer Immunology

PRIMARY DETAIL

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join the Precision Cancer Therapy (PCT) group within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences. You will contribute to impactful research focused on understanding mechanisms of cancer treatment response and resistance, working with primary cells, ex vivo, models and mouse models. Your efforts will help drive the development of personalised therapeutic strategies for cancer patients.

Salary Package: From $83,580 per annum (HEW 5) + 17% superannuation + annual leave loading
Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed-term contract (2 years)
Location: Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

The Role

Reporting to the Senior Lecturer in the Precision Cancer Therapy group, this position plays a key role in supporting cancer research projects focused on understanding treatment response and resistance, contributing to experimental work and day-to-day laboratory operations.
- As a Research Assistant in the Precision Cancer Therapy group, you will:_
- Support the development of pre-clinical mouse models using molecular cloning and lentiviral transduction techniques.
- Assist in animal-based studies to test treatment response and resistance, and conduct functional and molecular analysis.
- Maintain accurate records of experimental protocols and data.
- Provide guidance to students performing project-specific tasks, ensuring proper use of laboratory equipment.
- Contribute to the efficient day-to-day operation of the research laboratory.
- Comply with EEO and WHS regulations and perform other duties as required.

About You
You are an enthusiastic and reliable research assistant who enjoys working in a hands-on laboratory environment. With a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach, you support the day-to-day work of a busy research group by performing experiments, maintaining lab records, and assisting in pre-clinical model development.

You are proactive, organised, eager to learn, and are comfortable following established protocols while also taking the initiative when needed. You value teamwork, communicate clearly, and contribute positively to a collaborative lab culture. Whether guiding students, preparing samples, or managing routine lab operations, you bring professionalism, care, and a genuine interest in contributing to impactful cancer research.

About Us
Macquarie University is a place of discovery and bold ambition. Ranked among Australia’s leading research universities, Macquarie is home to pioneering minds, world-class facilities, and a commitment to improving lives through innovation.

Macquarie University’s
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences

leads the nation’s first fully integrated Academic Health Sciences Centre under a university’s leadership. With a focus on patients and a mission to drive health transformation, the Faculty brings together medical and allied health researchers, educators, and clinicians with access to world-class clinical care and research infrastructure on campus.

The Faculty has active research programs across biomedical, translational, and health services domains. Current strengths include cancer biology, cancer therapeutics, neuroscience, vascular science, and clinical medicine. The faculty also hosts the
- Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling

, equipped with state-of-the-art instruments and teechnologies to personalise cancer treatment.

The Precision Cancer Therapy group is located within Macquarie Medical School in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences. As a key member of the group, you will have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects using primary cells, ex vivo systems, and mouse models—translating research into novel, real-time therapeutic approaches for cancer patients.

How to Apply

Key Selection Criteria
- Essential criteria:_
- Bachelor’s degree (with Honours) or Master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, with at least two years’ laboratory experience.
- Strong background in animal handling, particularly in mouse cancer models, including blood and tissue sampling and processing.
- Experience in molecular and/or cellular biology techniques including cell culture, PCR, molecular cloning, and DNA/RNA/protein extraction.
- Excellent attention to detail with experience in scientific record-keeping and experimental documentation.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a research environment, under supervision and as part of a team.
- Good organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Desirable criteria:_
- Experience with high-dimensional flow cytometry and the operation of flow cytometers.
- Ability to independently analyse experimental data, including qualitative and statistical analysis, and clearly communicate findings.
- Experience supporting researchers