Research Assistant

• Support cutting-edge mRNA manufacturing in a leading research facility.
• Assist with laboratory operations and customer support for innovative research.
• Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 1 year.
• Base salary range: $80,293 – $85,291 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The RNA Innovation Foundry (RIF) is a dedicated RNA manufacturing facility supported by the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Scheme, the WA State Government and The University of Western Australia. The facility manufactures high-quality mRNA for pre-clinical research, helping researchers accelerate scientific discovery without the need to establish their own manufacturing capability.

As part of a collaborative research environment, the RIF supports the scale-up and delivery of mRNA products for researchers and industry partners across Western Australia, contributing to therapeutic innovation and research translation.

About the opportunity

• Support the day-to-day operations of a specialised RNA manufacturing laboratory, including reagent preparation, laboratory inventory management, consumables purchasing and basic equipment upkeep.
• Coordinate project tracking, customer communications and product delivery activities, ensuring stakeholders are informed of manufacturing schedules and order progress.
• Contribute to laboratory quality and efficiency through accurate record keeping, maintenance of client databases, support for SOP implementation, data management and project administration.

About you

• Completion of a diploma-level qualification with relevant work experience, or a Certificate IV with relevant work experience in genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry or related disciplines, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.
• Demonstrated knowledge of basic bioinformatics or data analysis tools, or similar software in a research or academic setting.
• Ability to follow established laboratory protocols and analysis workflows accurately and reliably.
• Well-developed organisational skills with attention to detail and the ability to maintain detailed experimental and data records.
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills suitable for a research support environment.

Note: As part of the recruitment process, candidates will be required to complete declarations in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.

Occasional out-of-hours work may be required by the successful applicant.

Position description:  PD - Research Assistant (524303).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact John Blinco at john.blinco@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Shelby Corrins at shelby.corrins@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 27 September 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Please note: Unsolicited applications and emails from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

Benefits

• Flexible working options.
• Generous paid leave including parental leave.
• Up to 17% employer paid superannuation.
• Salary packaging available.
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
• Discounted health insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.