Jobs and Careers

• Contribute to eye disease genetics research to improve health outcomes for the Tasmanian community and beyond
• Build practical expertise in molecular genetics, cell culture, plasmid assembly, sequencing, and zebrafish models
• Full time, fixed term position for 3 years based in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Laboratory Research Assistant will support the human genetics research program of the Eye Genetics team and collaborating groups by conducting experiments aiming to discover novel disease-causing genes and understand the functional consequences of genetic variation.

What you’ll do:

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of procedures, samples and laboratory results.
• Manage specimen receiving, storage, processing and distribution.
• Assist with zebrafish husbandry and maintenance and support staff and students conducting experiments with this model system.
• Conduct cell culture of mammalian cell lines.
• Assemble plasmid constructs and assist with experiments investigating the functional effects of genetic variants in cell culture models.

What we’re looking for:

• A degree (bachelor’s with honors minimum) in a relevant field such as biomedicine, with genetics or molecular biology component.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment, willingness and capacity to implement WHS policies and safe work practices.
• Experience with laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction, primer design and PCR, Sanger sequencing, plasmid assembly and purification, mammalian cell culture and transfection.
• High level written and oral communication skills, preferably with experience in scientific writing and presentations.
• Understanding of human and animal research ethical frameworks, preferably with experience preparing ethics applications.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at HEO 5 and will have a total remuneration package of up to $105,665 comprising base salary within the range of $80,869 to $90,312 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience.  You do not need to separately address the success profile.
• For further information about this position, please contact Johanna Jones, Research Fellow,  johanna.jones@utas.edu.au or 6220 4048.
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 503009 - Position Description - Laboratory Research Assistant.pdf

Applications close Tuesday, 28 April 2026, 11.55pm

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.