Senior Research Assistant – Plant Epigenetics

About This Opportunity

Join a collaborative and purpose-driven research environment within the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, where you will support cutting-edge genomic and epigenomic research focused on plant systems. Working closely with Dr Peter Crisp and a dynamic research team, you will contribute technical expertise across the research lifecycle, helping to deliver high-quality outcomes that advance scientific discovery and support emerging researchers and students.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative research that supports global agricultural sustainability and food security.

Key responsibilities will include, but not limited to

• Undertake advanced epigenomic and molecular biology procedures, including nucleic acid isolation, DNA amplification, sequencing preparation, and chromatin analysis.
• Support the development and optimisation of research protocols alongside postdoctoral staff and collaborators.
• Set up, monitor, and maintain laboratory experiments, equipment, and consumables to ensure efficient research operations.
• Apply specialist technical expertise in plant growth, cloning, and transformation to support complex research projects.

This is a full-time, fixed-term position through to 30 June 2027 at HEW 6.

About You

We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated Senior Research Assistant to apply their subject matter expertise and advanced knowledge of epigenomics, plants transformation and laboratory management.

• Completion of a degree qualification in biology, biotechnology, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience in molecular biology techniques, including epigenomics and DNA methylation profiling.
• Demonstrated experience or capability in cloning and plant transformation across model and non-model species.
• Strong laboratory management skills, including equipment maintenance and chemical inventory oversight.
• Ability to apply advanced technical knowledge and contribute to experimental design and research outputs.
• Well-developed organisational skills with a methodical and detail-oriented approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research setting.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Peter Crisp at p.crisp@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 summarising 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, criminal history checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close Sunday 2 August at 11.00pm AEST (R-66265)