Senior Research Assistant, mRNA Manufacture

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BASE Facility , based in the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN) Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 12 months Base salary will be in the range $85,451.97 - $94,983.84 + 17% super (HEW Level 5) Based at our Translational Research Institute site in Woolloongabba About This Opportunity Join the innovative and collaborative BASE Facility team as Senior Research Assistant to provide technical research support and subject matter expertise in support of mRNA manufacturing. You will be responsible for supporting mRNA manufacturing operations and performing analytical methods to assess the quality and characteristics of mRNA products throughout the manufacturing process. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring the production of high-quality mRNA products within our cutting-edge manufacturing facility. Key responsibilities will include: Coordinate aspects of mRNA products manufacturing, including template synthesis, purification, IVT processes and formulation. Validate and execute analytical assays for the characterisation of mRNA quality attributes, including assays for purity, integrity, and stability. Assist in the design of optimisation studies, under supervision of senior staff to improve manufacturing processes for efficiency, yield, and quality. Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, procedures, and results. Generate and follow Standard Operating Procedures with a high attention to detail. Troubleshoot issues with manufacturing process/technical equipment, proposing and implementing solutions to ensure smooth operations under the guidance of supervisor. Undertake maintenance and upkeep of facilities and equipment. Safety Contribute to the safe and efficient operation of research equipment, infrastructure, methodologies and protocols. Ensure the appropriate storage, handling and disposal of chemicals, equipment, stores and/or samples/specimens Research and administrative support Assist with ordering research consumables Undertake literature searches and reviews Assist with routine team administration. Assist with preparing reports, graphs, figures and presentations on research outcomes at different stages of the research cycle outcomes Any other duties as reasonably directed by your supervisor About You Completion of a degree level qualification in Molecular Biology / Biochemistry / Pharmaceutical or completion of a Diploma with relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training Excellent practical research skills and experience in molecular biology techniques, including PCR, primer design, nucleic acid extraction and purification, in-vitro transcription (IVT) Experience using analytical techniques, including U.V spectroscopy, agarose gel electrophoresis, capillary GE and HPLC Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues. Ability to work independently on routine procedures Excellent oral and written communication skills Well-organised, methodical and self-motivated Previous experience in mRNA manufacturing in an industry setting would be considered favourably About BASE The BASE mRNA facility is a state-of-the-art not-for -profit NCRIS facility located at Translational Research Institute (TRI and AIBN). We offer end-to-end services, including the design, manufacture and LNP formulation of mRNA. We have experience making hundreds of mRNA vaccines and therapies. Our mission is to enable and support research across Australia, by providing high-quality mRNA for translational use in discovery, development and pre-clinical work. About UQ As part of the UQ community, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available. Enjoy up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% super, 17.5% leave loading, flexible working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on‑campus childcare, affordable parking, and salary packaging. Interested? For more information about this opportunity, please contact Sneha Lakshmann Das - s.lakshmandas@uq.edu.au For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au , stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line. When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarizing how your background aligns to the 'About You' section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted. Other Information Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications, mandatory immunisations. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements. You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Austra