Research Assistant

Job description:

Join the innovative Muscle Bioengineering Group at MCRI and contribute to pioneering research using stem-cell derived muscle for disease modelling and drug discovery. This exciting opportunity involves working with pluripotent stem cells to develop bioengineered muscle and organoid systems aimed at advancing therapeutic discovery — particularly focusing on high-throughput screening of small molecules in muscle models of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD).

As a Research Assistant, you will play a key role in the culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells, generation of muscle organoids, and screening of potential drugs. You'll employ cutting-edge techniques such as flow cytometry, functional analysis, immunohistochemistry, cell sorting, and multi-omic approaches, while maintaining meticulous laboratory and data management practices.

Your responsibilities include:

• Maintain and differentiate human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs)
• Conduct discovery research using stem-cell derived and primary myoblast-derived muscle models
• Contribute to high-throughput drug screening and validation of candidate therapeutics
• Ensure smooth operation of the laboratory, including reagent and stock management
• Maintain accurate and well-organised laboratory records and data storage
• Assist in the generation of high-quality data for research publications and presentations

What we need from you:

• Degree, Honours, or Masters qualification in Science or a related discipline
• Extensive experience with cell culture, particularly pluripotent stem cell maintenance and differentiation
• Skilled in molecular biology techniques including immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and RNA sequencing preparation
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research team
• Excellent time management, organisational, and analytical problem-solving skills

Questions? Please reach out to Richard Mills at

View the position description.

What's in it for you?

• Attractive salary plus salary packaging benefits
• Work at Australia's leading child health research institute within a world-class bioengineering team
• Contribute to cutting-edge research with direct impact on understanding and treating muscle diseases such as FSHD
• Gain hands-on experience with advanced stem cell, organoid, and bioengineering technologies
• Opportunity to develop expertise in high-throughput drug screening and next-generation molecular techniques
• Collaborate with renowned scientists, clinicians, and industry partners in translational research
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and core facilities
• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture that values professional growth and innovation

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 Description

Applications close: 14 November 2025 AUS Eastern Daylight time