Research Assistant - Queensland Brain Institute

The Queensland Brain Institute works to understand the development, organisation and function of the brain. We aim to understand the neural circuits in the brain, how their function results in behavioural outcomes, and how dysfunction of these circuits leads to disorders such as dementia, Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. We aim to (1) Develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat disorders of neural function and (2) Use our understanding of brain function to improve learning in classrooms and in the workplace.

About This Opportunity

A newly created opportunity exists for a Research Assistant to join a Group aiming to understand the normal and pathologic function of genes associated with brain disorders using the zebrafish combined with state-of-the-art genetics and microscopy tools.

To support this research, your day to day responsibilities will involve:

• Zebrafish handling, breeding and collecting;
• Generating CRISPR knockout zebrafish lines;
• Microinjecting into zebrafish embryos for the generation of transgenic animals;
• Screening for transgenics;
• Molecular biology experiments and Microscopy; and
• Biochemical techniques such as Western Blot, immunostaining and drug screening in multiwell plates.

This position is located at our picturesque St Lucia campus, renowned as one of Australia's most attractive university campuses, and located just 7km from Brisbane's city centre. Bounded by the Brisbane River on three sides, and with outstanding public transport connections, our 114-hectare site provides a perfect work environment - you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a vibrant campus with the tradition of an established university.

Our Ideal Candidate

We are searching for someone who will be able to demonstrate:

• BSc (Hons) or equivalent, partnered with extensive experience with molecular biology;
• Experience with CRISPR technology (especially in zebrafish) would be regarded very favourably;
• Experience with zebrafish handling, breeding, embryos collection, and embryos micro-injections;
• Expertise with in vivo observation of fluorescence and animal observation;
• Experience with formatting results for integration in scientific manuscripts;
• Strong communications skills and ability to consistently summarise results of research activities.

In addition, you ill be able to demonstrate the ability to work independently, to multi-task experiments whilst still meeting timelines, and a high level of organisational skills.

It is a condition of employment for this role that you will be required to provide evidence of immunisation against certain vaccine preventable diseases.

You must have ongoing unrestricted work rights in Australia to apply for this opportunity.

Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to recruitment@uq.edu.au .

What We Can Offer

This is a full-time, fixed term position for up to 3 years at HEW level 5 or 6 (depending on qualifications and experience).

The base salary will be in the range $67,608 - $75,506 for HEW 5, or $77,400 to $83,267 for HEW 6, plus super of up to 17% and recreation leave loading of 17.5%.

You will be able to take advantage of UQ Sport Facilities, salary sacrificing options, on-campus childcare, discounted private health insurance, cheap parking, development programs and many other benefits.

Questions?

For application queries, please contact recruitment@uq.edu.au stating the job number in the subject line.