Research Officer

UWA; Perth; On-site; AUD 83,212 - 92,231; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26 weeks paid parental leave

17% superannuation

Discounted health insurance

Job summary

The University of Western Australia (UWA) seeks a full-time Research Officer to join a cutting-edge RNA therapeutics centre focused on advancing cancer research. This role involves designing and executing mRNA workflows, conducting quality control, and collaborating with leading researchers.

Ideal candidates will have a postgraduate qualification and demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques. UWA offers attractive benefits including paid parental leave and salary packaging options.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in a relevant field required.
• Experience with in vitro transcription and RNA extraction.
• Ability to analyse data and prepare detailed reports.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute mRNA manufacturing workflows.
• Conduct quality control and analytical testing.
• Collaborate on RNA therapeutic projects.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Postgraduate qualification in genetics, biochemistry or related discipline

Tools

PCR

Cell-based assays

Quality control testing

Job description

• 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
• 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
• 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
• Salary packaging options.
• 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
• Discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.

Research Officer

Job no: 523770
Work type: Full Time
Location: Crawley
Categories: Science

• Join a newly established, cutting-edge RNA therapeutics centre advancing cancer research.
• Work with leading researchers, clinicians, and industry partners on translational mRNA projects.
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis till 31 May 2028.
• Base salary range: Level 5, $83,212 – $92,231 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The Australian Centre for RNA Therapeutics in Cancer (ACRTC) at The University of Western Australia is a collaborative research initiative bringing together RNA scientists, oncologists, consumers, and industry partners to accelerate the development of RNA‑based cancer therapies.

Central to this effort is the newly funded RNA Innovation Foundry (RIF), a specialised facility delivering high‑quality mRNA manufacturing for pre‑clinical research. The Foundry enables researchers across Western Australia to access scalable RNA production without needing to build in‑house capabilities, supporting the translation of innovative RNA therapeutics from discovery to application.

About the opportunity

• Designing and executing mRNA manufacturing workflows, including in vitro transcription and RNA purification.
• Conducting quality control and analytical testing (e.g. electrophoresis, endotoxin testing, sequencing).
• Optimising manufacturing processes and contributing to platform development initiatives.
• Developing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) aligned to laboratory best practice and safety standards.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary stakeholders on RNA therapeutic and discovery projects.
• Training staff and students in molecular biology protocols and laboratory techniques.
• Analysing experimental data and presenting findings to project teams and stakeholders.

About you

• A relevant postgraduate qualification (Honours or Masters) in genetics, biochemistry, or a related discipline with knowledge of RNA biology.
• Demonstrated experience in molecular biology techniques, including in vitro transcription, RNA/DNA extraction and purification, PCR, and cell‑based assays.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with experience interpreting experimental data.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to prepare reports and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities, work independently, and contribute effectively in a team environment.
• Desirable to have experience in biomanufacturing or working within a quality management or regulated laboratory environment (e.g. GMP/GLP).

Note

Employment checks will include information on gender‑based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.

This position is only open to Current UWA staff

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.

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.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Friday, 10 July 2026