Research Assistant - The Queensland Brain Institute

The Queensland Brain Institute (QBI)

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.

Established in 2003, QBI (www.qbi.uq.edu.au) is housed on the St Lucia campus of UQ. It is home to more than 450 staff and students, including 41 group leaders.

Over the past decade QBI has become known as one of the world's leading neuroscience research institutes. It played a key role in contributing to UQ attaining the highest possible score of 5 for neuroscience, in the 2010, 2012, and 2015 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessments, one of only two universities in Australia to achieve this.

Clem Jones Centre for Ageing and Dementia Research (CJCADR)

In 2011, QBI established the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), focusing on understanding pathogenic mechanisms at a molecular and cellular level and using this insight to develop therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of ageing dementia as well as better diagnostic tools.

The role

With an ageing population, numbers of Alzheimer's cases are increasing but there is no cure for this debilitating disease. CJCADR have recently developed an exciting new method that allows us, by transiently opening the blood-brain barrier, to remove amyloid-beta plaques that are known to cause Alzheimer's disease in mouse models. This method also restores memory functions in these mice. We are searching for two Research Assistants to apply this method to determine the efficacy of the treatment approach using a range of animal models and methodologies. The study may be complemented by cell culture work with the aim of therapeutic intervention.

The person

Applicants must hold qualifications and training equivalent to an undergraduate degree in the area of biomedical science/neuroscience; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.

Applicants will have demonstrated experience with animal handling/surgery/imaging and manipulation procedures. Experience in animal behavioural work will be highly regarded. You should also have experience in techniques such as histology and immunohistochemistry; microscopy and image analysis.

The ideal candidate will have a strong desire to develop a successful and highly-productive research career in a scientific environment, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, a strong methodological background, the ability to interpret experimental data, and the capacity to work within multidisciplinary research teams.

You must have valid Australian work rights to apply for this role. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Salary and Benefits

These are full-time, fixed term appointment at HEW Level 4 for 12 months. The remuneration package will be in the range $62,342 - $66,291 p.a., plus employer superannuation contributions of up to 17% (total package will be in the range $72,940 - $77,561 p.a.).

Employees can take advantage of UQ's Sport Facilities and Fitness Passport , salary sacrificing options, on-campus childcare, discounted private health insurance, cheap parking, and many other benefits.

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.

Here at UQ we value diversity and inclusion, and we actively encourage applications from those who bring diversity to the University. Our Diversity and Inclusion webpage contains further information and points of contact if you require additional support. Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to recruitment@uq.edu.au .

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Mrs Wendy Lee on wendy.lee@uq.edu.au

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below. All applicants must supply the following documents: Cover letter, Resume and Selection Criteria responses.