Research Assistant for 3D culture system development

Job Description

Research Assistant for 3D culture system development An opportunity is available to join a small and highly motivated team at Tessara Therapeutics, an Australian biotechnology company situated in the new Jumar Bioincubator in the recently completed CSL building in Melbourne. Tessara is a world leader in 3D human cell-based models of the brain and has developed the RealBrain technology, which allows for the reproducible production of human brain micro-tissues at industrial scale. This technology has application across the neurosciences and will help foster the shift away from preclinical animal testing and towards the use of more physiologically relevant tools that are now being endorsed by regulatory bodies around the world and which will deliver more effective and better medicines for significant human diseases. About the role: With increasing engagements with industry partners, together with continuing Research and Development on our existing and future RealBrain pipeline, we need additional personnel in the lab to support our growth and the commercialisation of our technology. The candidate will: Maintain cell lines and produce/maintain 3D microtissues on a routine basis. Undertake characterisation studies of the 3D microtissues (e.g., western blots, immunocytochemistry, RNAseq, plate-based colorimetric assays etc). Assist in the maintenance and resupply of all lab consumables and ensure that an accurate inventory is maintained. Maintain clear and accurate laboratory notebooks and records of experimental results. Comply with all OHS, OGTR and laboratory policies and procedures. Assist other team members with their activities as reasonably requested. Provide verbal/written updates/reports on activities as required. This Research Assistant position is available on a full-time basis for a period of 12 months (with the potential to be extended). The role attracts an annual salary ranging from Research Assistant Level 1 ($78,115) to Level 3 ($85,555) commensurate with experience. The successful candidate will have: Bachelor of Science (Hons) or equivalent experience Strong organisation skills; ability to work consistently and effectively Excellent record-keeping and data management skills The ability to work consistently and effectively in a team environment and independently Proven ability to conduct high-quality research A proactive, dynamic, flexible and highly motivated mindset Cell culture expertise Proficiency with protein-based readouts (immunocytochemistry, western blot and plate-based) Experience with standard Office software (e.g. Word, Excel, Powerpoint; SharePoint) The following are desirable but not essential: Chemistry - Polymer engineering Experience with human stem cell cultures and 3D cultures Skills in RNA extraction/processing and bioinformatics pipelines/analysis Expertise in imaging and image analysis using quantitative software tools A strong neuroscience background Experience with Statistical software (e.g. Prism) Applicants who meet the criteria listed in the Position Description should submit their resume together with a cover letter outlining their suitability for the position and a list of at least two references no later than February 28. Seniority level Entry level Employment type Full-time Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology #J-18808-Ljbffr