Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university.  You’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.

Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.

The goal of the Laboratory of Vaccines for the Developing World within the Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics is to provide proof-of-concept for the development of vaccines for group A streptococcus (GAS) and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) based on minimal epitopes.

The Research Assistant will support research activities within immunology and infectious diseases, inclusive of animal experiments, culturing and storage of bacterial isolates, immunological assays (ELISA and flow cytometry), molecular biology (PCR and sequencing), protein chemistry (recombinant protein expression and peptide-protein conjugation) and cell culture (opsonophagocytic killing assays).

Key responsibilities of this position include:

• Undertake experimental design, laboratory experiments, data interpretation and communication of results in an independent manner as directed by the Laboratory Head/Research Leader.
• Qualify and conduct immunological (in-vitro and in-vivo) and protein chemistry-based techniques used in the identification and development of vaccines.
• Assist in general laboratory duties while maintaining a flexible approach to working hours, where required, to meet the requirements of the project. Provide input and discretion over the tasks performed.
• Demonstrate leadership in laboratory regulatory compliance through maintaining detailed and precise laboratory records and contribute to writing and review of UBC applications and animal ethics applications.

About you
The successful candidate will have completed a bachelor’s degree with research Honours, a Master’s degree, or equivalent experience in medical research. You will have proven ability to follow experimental protocols, with precision and attention to detail. Additionally, strong oral and written communication skills, meticulous record keeping and effective time management are essential to ensure research activities are conducted to the highest standards and within designated time frames. The successful candidate will be expected to work both independently and collaboratively across multiple projects, supporting vaccines development.

In addition to the above, you will demonstrate:

• Proficiency in handling rodent models during experimental procedures, with expertise in specimen/sample collection, including injections, blood collection, and necropsy sample retrieval.
• Experience in molecular biology, protein chemistry, and microbiology, contributing to various aspects of vaccine research.
• Ability to analyse and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot protocols, and contribute to experimental design to improve research outcomes.

This role requires a high degree of technical competency, problem-solving skills, and adaptability in a dynamic research setting.

What we can offer
This is a fixed term (12 months), full-time position primarily based at Griffith University Gold Coast.  As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations. Griffith University’s campuses are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Salary Range
The full-time base salary for a Research Assistant, Grade 2 is in the range $82,278 - $86,526 per annum, plus 17% employer superannuation. The total package is in the range $96,265 - $101,236 per annum.

Why Griffith?
As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer:

• Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts
• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading
• Support with future learning opportunities through our educational staff assistance scheme
• Health Safety and Wellbeing initiatives – on campus Gym facilities

How to apply
At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy.

Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following:

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role (please refer to the About you section above and the position description)
• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details

Applicants must have unrestricted working rights for the duration of this appointment.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Successful candidates may be subject to a criminal history check.

For further information specifically about this role, please contact Associate Professor Manisha Pandey on 0402 715 225 or via email:  m.pandey@griffith.edu.au

For application support, please contact People Services on (07) 373 54011 and quote reference number RE7304H.

Closing date: Monday, 24 March 2025 at 11.59pm AEST. All applications must be submitted online.

Please allow at least 1 – 2 weeks from the closing date to expect an application update.