Research Assistant - MND Research Centre

• Salary package: From $81,323 per annum (HEW Level 4) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
• Appointment type – Full-time (Part-time considered) fixed-term contract for 2 years
• Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Help unlock the biology of motor neurone disease and contribute to the search for new treatments

Motor neurone disease (MND) remains one of the most complex challenges in neuroscience, and the laboratory work behind every discovery matters. As a Research Assistant in the Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease, you will work at the bench alongside researchers investigating the cellular mechanisms and molecular pathways of neurodegeneration, and helping to evaluate new treatment strategies in cell and zebrafish models.

You will join a research community of more than 70 people focused on MND, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, advanced imaging and preclinical models, and an active Early Career Researcher network ('EnCouRage'). Reporting to Associate Professor Marco Morsch, you will be part of a team where technical care and curiosity are valued equally, and where your day-to-day contribution feeds directly into research with real human impact.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with hands-on molecular and cellular biology experience who would like to grow their research career within a recognised centre of excellence, with scope to develop new techniques, contribute to publications and build lasting research relationships across the University and beyond.

About the Role

Working under the direction of the principal researcher, you will provide practical research and laboratory assistance across a portfolio of MND projects. Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing research assistance to projects examining the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodegeneration in MND, in line with approved research protocols

• Undertaking and assisting with a range of cellular biology and preclinical research projects, including work in cell and zebrafish models

• Participating in, and assisting with, data management and analysis

• Updating and maintaining databases for project samples and research data

• Contributing to day-to-day laboratory management, including equipment, consumables and record keeping

• Building effective working relationships with a diverse range of researchers, professional staff and students

• Working in line with relevant EEO, WHS, biosafety and research ethics requirements

Please note that work hours may vary from time to time to accommodate operational needs.

About Us

Macquarie University's Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences builds on our aspiration to have the nation's first fully integrated Academic Health Sciences Centre under a university's leadership. It brings together the excellent work of medical and allied-health clinicians and researchers across the University and around the country, with unparalleled access to the world-leading clinical resources and research facilities found only on our campus.

The Centre for Motor Neuron Disease is well integrated into the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences and the Department of Biomedical Sciences. The Centre has established state-of-the-art research facilities and offers outstanding development options, including an active Early Career Researcher support network ('EnCouRage'), within a team of more than 70 staff working on MND.

About You

You are a capable laboratory scientist who enjoys precise, methodical work and takes pride in reliable, well-documented results. You bring practical molecular and cellular biology skills, clear communication, and the organisational habits needed to keep multiple projects moving in a busy research environment.

Selection Criteria

• Bachelor degree or equivalent in medical science or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience

• Knowledge and understanding of cell biology, genetic and genomic analysis

• Experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA purification, cell culture, fluorescent microscopy, western blotting and immunostaining

• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA cloning (Gibson, Gateway), DNA construct assembly, PCR, gel electrophoresis and in vitro mRNA production

• Working knowledge of ethics and safe practice in a laboratory environment

• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with researchers, students and stakeholders

• Well-organised approach to work, with the ability to prioritise, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines

Desirable

• Experience working with mice or zebrafish

• Experience with confocal microscopy and histology techniques

How to Apply

To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).

Applications Close: Sunday 11th October 2026, 11:59pm AEST

We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.

This position is not available for visa sponsorship, and the successful applicant must have valid work rights in Australia for the full 2-year fixed-term contract.

For General enquiries: Rebecca Wood, Talent Acquisition at r.wood@mq.edu.au

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options
• Extensive training and professional development programs
• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
• Onsite vacation care during school holidays
• Discounted health insurance
• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close:

11/10/2026 11:59 PM

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A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.