Research Officer

Role Type: 12-month full time contract Salary: $106,667 - $114,497 per annum plus superannuation We are seeking an experienced and motivated laboratory-based researcher with a strong background in bacteriology to join Dr Nancy Wang's team within the Enteric Diseases group at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Australia's leading child health research institute.

Working at the interface of bacteriology, cellular immunology, and vaccinology, our team investigates T cell-mediated immunity to combat major human pathogens—particularly Salmonella enterica serovars Typhi and Typhimurium. These pathogens remain significant contributors to global morbidity and mortality, especially in low-resource settings.

As a Research Officer, you will contribute to our discovery research program exploring the mechanisms of S. Typhi infection using both in vitro and in vivo models. This role is ideally suited for a postdoctoral researcher with experience in infectious disease research and a passion for translational science aimed at improving health outcomes in endemic regions.

Key Responsibilities

· Independently design and conduct experiments using established protocols with precision and reproducibility

· Ensure all research activities align with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and MCRI policies

· Maintain meticulous experimental records and laboratory notes

· Analyse and interpret data, and present findings in a publication-ready format

· Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, reports, and grant applications

· Support compliance documentation including ethics applications, SOPs, and risk assessments

· Provide supervision and training to students and research staff

· Participate actively in lab meetings and collaborative discussions

About YouYou are a passionate scientist with a solid foundation in bacteriology and molecular biology, who enjoys both the rigour and the creativity of discovery research. You bring a collaborative spirit and take pride in producing reliable and impactful science.

Essential Criteria

· A PhD in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, or a related discipline

· Postdoctoral experience in bacteriology or infectious diseases research

· Experience working with Risk Group II bacterial pathogens and relevant biosafety compliance

· Hands-on expertise with molecular techniques in Gram-negative bacteria

· Proficiency in relevant lab techniques: bacterial growth assays, tissue culture, flow cytometry, ELISA/ELISPOT, and confocal microscopy

· Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organisational skills

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team

· Strong written and verbal communication skills

· Demonstrated mentoring or supervision experience is desirable

What's in it for you?

Maximise Your Pay: Benefit from salary packaging, including entertainment and novated leases

· Flexible Working Options: Enjoy a variety of flexible work arrangements.

· Join a Reputable Organisation: Take advantage of a unique opportunity to be part of a respected research institute

· Make a Difference: Collaborate with a team passionate about making a positive impact

· Supportive Environment: Work in a dynamic and energetic setting with our expanding team.

Who we are

Murdoch Children's Research Institute envisions a transformative future for child health. Our institute is a hub of impactful scientific breakthroughs, particularly in early interventions, enhanced diagnosis, prevention, and potential cures. We thrive on collaborative, multidisciplinary problem-solving to address challenging queries in child health. Committed to inclusivity and respect, we foster a positive working environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences. As a proud member of the Australian Network on Disability and a dedicated supporter of Science Australia Gender Equity (SAGE), we uphold principles of equal opportunity and diverse representation.

We are committed to the safety of children and young people and takes a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse, exploitation and harm. Child safety is prioritised in our decision-making at all levels of the Institute.

Join Us

If you believe this role is a good fit for you, please apply by submitting:

· Your resume

· A cover letter addressing the selection criteria

Ensure these documents are combined into a single PDF file.

We welcome individuals of diverse genders, ages, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, abilities, religions, and sexual orientations in our workplace. We actively encourage talented individuals from all walks of life to apply for our job openings. Our commitment lies in fostering a workplace that is barrier-free and inclusive, aiming to attract the most skilled candidates.

For any questions related to the recruitment process, feel free to reach out to our Recruitment team at *********** Ensure that you include the position number and job title in the subject line. Please refrain from sharing your application to this email address.

Please note, we reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the closing date once a sufficient number of applications have been received.

No recruitment agencies please.

Position DescriptionApplications close: 23 June 2025