• Full time, fixed term opportunity until late June 2026 with possibility of extension

• Exciting opportunity to work as a Research Assistant at the NSW Brain Tissue Resource Centre with the School of Medical Sciences

• Base Salary starting at $89,755 + 17% superannuation 

About the opportunity

The School of Medical Sciences is recognised as one of the leading centres for medical science education in the world. With over 100 years of excellence in education, we are proud to be training the next generation of medical scientists who will be leading members of the medical research community with an innovative integrated curriculum. Our team of researchers lead key internationally competitive research from molecules to medicines, from patient to policy across a range of therapeutic areas.   

The NSW Brain Tissue Resource Centre (BTRC) at the University of Sydney supports the advancement of medical research into neurological illnesses by collecting, characterising and storing postmortem human brain and spinal cord tissue and providing specimens for merit-based research projects around the world. The BTRC is funded by the National Institutes of Health and has operated for close to 30 years.

We have an opportunity for a Research Assistant to join the team to contribute to this important work. The Research Assistant will be involved in both wet and dry lab activity, and specifically the collection of specimens, including the dissection, sectioning, staining and storing of samples, as well as collecting and preparing samples for use by researchers. In the dry lab, the Research Assistant will provide support in maintaining our existing protocols as well as investigating and recommending relevant process improvements, based on industry best practice.

This role is ideally suited to a motivated and detail-oriented individual who enjoys working in a research-focused environment and contributing to outcomes that support the school’s research agenda.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• prepare human brain tissue for neuropathological analysis and distribution for research projects in accordance with established protocols

• brain donation facilitation including ability to participate in holding a shared pager phone and some out of hours work

• participate in lab-based and other biobanking activities such as tissue audit, data entry, tissue QC

• assist with research data collection and analysis, ensuring data quality and accuracy

• assist with the documentation process for research publications, including drafting, submission and maintenance of research records

• collaborate with researchers, clinical specialists and affiliated partners

• undertake other duties appropriate within the classification level as required.

About you

• possesses a tertiary qualification in pathology, neuroscience, anatomy, biomedical sciences or similar or equivalent work

• extensive histology experience, including embedding, microtomy, routine and special staining and immunohistochemistry

• strong problem-solving skills and the ability to use initiative, exercise sound judgement and prioritise workload during busy periods

• good verbal and written communication skills, with proven ability to apply theoretical knowledge and techniques to meet the key accountabilities

• ability to work both independently and as part of a team, taking initiative in resolving matters that may arise as part of normal daily work

• holds a valid driver's license, and able to visit locations in greater Sydney to collect

• experience working with human or other mammalian brain tissue would be highly valued.

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

Work Rights: you must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment. 

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement 

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.  

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard.  Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Ajaypal Singh, Recruitment Operations by email to [email protected].

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The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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