Technical Assistant, part time

Aurion; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Aurion is seeking a Technical Assistant to support researchers and students within the Centre. The role involves experimental preparation, animal work, genotyping, and data collection in a PC2 environment.

You will help maintain laboratory operations and contribute to high-quality research outcomes. Responsibilities include histological processing, data presentation, and preparation of figures for manuscripts, with training provided for animal handling and safety procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related discipline is required.
• Ability to work with animal models and to engage in PC2 laboratory activities.
• Proficient in documentation and data entry using Word and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Collection, recording and secure storage of experimental data.
• Preparation of buffers and experimental reagents.
• Histological processing and staining, including immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry.
• Quantitative analysis of histological outcomes (e.g. cell size and proportion of positively stained cells).
• Support for animal experiments, including mouse breeding, tissue collection, dietary administration and routine weighing.
• Genotyping, ELISAs, PCR and other routine molecular biology techniques.
• Presentation of results at laboratory meetings.
• Preparation of figures for manuscripts and publications.
• Laboratory inventory management and ordering of supplies.

Skills

Record keeping

Laboratory safety

Hazardous substances handling

Following detailed protocols

MS Word & Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a science-related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Synopsis:

Reporting to the Director of CDOER and post-doctoral fellows within the Centre, the Technical Assistant will provide practical and technical support to researchers and students across CDOER. The role is central to the smooth running of laboratory operations and contributes directly to high-quality research outcomes within a PC2 environment.

The Technical Assistant will be actively involved in experimental preparation, animal work, genotyping, maintenance of animal colonies, molecular assays, data collection, and participation in regular laboratory meetings. This is a hands-on role supporting a broad range of histological, molecular and animal-based experimental activities.

The Technical Assistant will work closely with:

• Centre Director, CDOER
• Post-doctoral fellows and research staff within CDOER
• Laboratory students and technical staff
• Animal facility staff (where applicable)

Key Responsibilities

• Collection, recording and secure storage of experimental data
• Preparation of buffers and experimental reagents
• Histological processing and staining, including immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry
• Quantitative analysis of histological outcomes (e.g. cell size and proportion of positively stained cells)
• Support for animal experiments, including mouse breeding, tissue collection, dietary administration and routine weighing (training provided where required)
• Genotyping, ELISAs, PCR and other routine molecular biology techniques
• Presentation of results at laboratory meetings
• Preparation of figures for manuscripts and publications
• Laboratory inventory management and ordering of supplies

To be successful, you will need to have the following:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a science-related discipline
• Availability to work Fridays and at least two of Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel for documentation and data entry
• Willingness to work with animal models (training provided if required)

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong record keeping and documentation skills
• Good understanding of PC2 laboratory safety requirements and procedures
• Experience working with hazardous substances and adherence to safe laboratory practice
• Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols accurately and consistently

Personal Qualities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Reliable, organised, and detail-oriented approach to work
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Willingness to support and guide students where required
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work under time constraints
• Proactive attitude towards learning new techniques and seeking guidance when needed