About This Opportunity We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Research Assistant to bring their subject matter expertise and advanced knowledge in immunology and vaccinology to the Doolan team, supporting a broad range of vaccine and immunology research projects. Key responsibilities will include: Set up, monitor and conduct laboratory experiments under general direction, applying specialist technical knowledge and maintaining strict compliance with approved ethics protocols and biosecurity regulations. Perform a full range of animal handling procedures, including injections (intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal), blood collection (tail vein, cardiac puncture), organ harvesting and processing (spleen, liver, bone marrow), micro-surgery, clinical monitoring, and euthanasia. Conduct diverse immunology assays such as ELISpot, multiparameter flow cytometry, cell sorting, and other assays using murine and/or human samples. Execute molecular biology studies, including qRT‑PCR, single-cell RNA sequencing, and related techniques. Prepare vaccine constructs, including mRNA, plasmid DNA, and recombinant viral vectors, along with chemicals, reagents, and required laboratory materials. Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records, including electronic laboratory notebooks (LabArchives), preparation notes, SOPs, and supporting documentation. Manage laboratory reagents, materials, and equipment, including sourcing, procurement, storage, disposal, database management, equipment installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Support financial and administrative processes, including raising purchase orders, invoice payment, maintaining grant/financial records, and assisting with external partner contracts (e.g., MTAs, subawards). Perform data analysis using software such as FlowJo, GraphPad Prism and R‑Studio, contribute to interpretation of experimental results, and assist in preparing technical reports, milestone updates, and manuscripts. Demonstrate strong attention to detail and ability to work independently or collaboratively, performing routine equipment maintenance and completing additional duties as reasonably directed. Ensure a high standard of research housekeeping—including waste disposal, sample storage, and inventory management of chemicals and specimens—while contributing to a proactive safety culture and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This is a full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 12 months at HEW Level 6. About You Completion of a relevant degree in science (biomedical science, biotechnology, immunology) Detailed knowledge of legislative requirements and operating procedures for major areas of research and scientific safety such as quarantine (approved arrangement) procedures, waste disposal, labelling and risk assessments Extensive experience in mouse models of disease and animal handling Advanced technical capabilities in cellular and molecular immunology, including ELIspot and multiparameter flow cytometry, Advanced technical capabilities in molecular biology, including RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, molecular cloning and single-cell RNA seq. High-level computer and database literacy skills, including the Microsoft Office suite, GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, and R-studio. Commitment to excellence and an ability to work diligently with a high level of accuracy Excellent organisational skills, lab management skills, and ability to work to tight deadlines Well-developed problem-solving skills, with an ability to forward plan, prioritise tasks to meet deadlines and work with a high level of adaptability, both independently and as part of a team Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment and produce clear, succinct documentation. The ability to liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders in a research environment Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, which may include verification of the right to work in Australia, and other role-specific requirements such as mandatory immunisations. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements. You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment. Questions? For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Denise Doolan at d.doolan@imb.uq.edu.au For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job requisition ID in the subject line. Want to Apply? We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload: Resume A cover letter summarising how your background aligns with the 'About You' section Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent, particularly from Australia’s First Nations Peoples. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au. Other Information UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role. Applications close Sunday 15 February at 11.00pm AEST (R-60611). LI-DNI