Research Assistant- Neuroscience

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to provide technical and operational support to laboratory-based neuroscience research focused on mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease. You will play a key role in the preparation, processing, and analysis of biological tissue samples to enable research projects that investigate molecular, cellular, and pathological changes associated with disease vulnerability, progression, and treatment. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team investigating topics at the forefront of neuroscience - from the biological mechanisms underlying sleep disorders and cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease, to identifying early cellular disruptions in non-Alzheimer neurodegenerative diseases and examining RNA dysregulation and its role in neuronal vulnerability. Key responsibilities include: Technical and Laboratory Support Undertake routine laboratory procedures including tissue preparation, sectioning, and immunohistochemistry staining in accordance with established protocols Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, solutions, and consumables to support experimental workflows Assist with specialised techniques such as antibody-based assays, multiplex labelling, and optimisation of staining protocols Maintain laboratory equipment ensuring it is used, maintained , and calibrated per standard operating procedures Data Collection, Imaging and Processing Acquire microscopy images and undertake digital image processing, organisation, and basic quantitative image analysis Collect, record, and organise experimental data using defined methods and systems Perform anatomical annotation or tissue-based analyses to support project-specific analytical workflows Maintain accurate and complete records of tissue samples, experimental procedures, and datasets Operational and Project Support Maintain laboratory facilities, including stock management and ordering of consumables Ensure laboratory compliance with biosafety and WHS requirements Provide technical support to assigned research projects investigating neurodegenerative disease mechanisms Assist with the implementation of experimental workflows and contribute to achieving project milestones Team Contribution Work within a multidisciplinary research team Communicate progress and technical issues to supervisors Provide support to students and other staff within the scope of the role The Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences (FMHHS) is ambitiously pushing the boundaries of progressive thinking and addressing some of the big issues of our time, both nationally and on a global scale. The faculty forms part of MQ Health, an integrated academic health sciences enterprise which incorporates Macquarie University Hospital and primary and speciality clinics. We have active research programs in biomedical and clinical sciences, cognitive and brain sciences, health systems, linguistics, physiotherapy, psychology and public health. Our faculty hosts the Australian Institute of Health Innovation (AIHI), an internationally acclaimed centre researching health systems, e- health and patient safety. About You You are a detail-oriented professional with a background in biomedical or neuroscience research, who thrives in a laboratory environment. You take pride in producing high-quality, reliable work and enjoy being part of a team working towards shared goals. Selection Criteria: Completion of a degree in biomedical science, neuroscience, molecular biology, or a related discipline; or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through relevant experience Demonstrated experience in a laboratory or technical environment Experience in applying standard laboratory techniques such as tissue preparation, handling, and/or immunohistochemistry Attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures and protocols accurately Good organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise routine tasks Effective interpersonal and communication skills Experience working with biological tissue (human and/or animal models), microscopy, digital imaging, image analysis software, or familiarity with neurodegenerative dis