Microscopy Officer (Permanent, Full-time)

About Us

Our vision is Exceptional Science, Healthier Lives.

The Translational Research Institute (TRI) is a leading Australian innovative medical research, development and translation facility.  It is home to a range of cutting edge technologies including interventions to prevent and treat human diseases, and provide diagnosis of early disease.

Supported by grants from the Australian and Queensland Governments, situated in the Princess Alexandra Hospital precinct, TRI combines the research intellect and capability of Queensland Health, The University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and the Mater Hospital.

Our Benefits include:

• Competitive salary

• Opportunity to salary sacrifice superannuation & access to novated leasing

• Fitness Passport (Discounted gym and pool memberships for you and your family members)

• Paid Parental Leave at Full Pay for 6 Months or Half Pay for 12 Months

• 17.5% Annual Leave Loading

• An inclusive and supportive workplace culture

• A focus on staff engagement and employee well-being

• Training and development opportunities

About the Role

The primary purpose of the Microscopy Officer is to be the ‘customer facing’ experienced technical specialist, accountable for the day-to-day general maintenance of the core microscopy infrastructure at TRI. The role will work closely with the Senior Microscopy Scientist to support a broad range of light microscopy imaging equipment and projects, provide comprehensive technical advice and training to users of the facility and develop methods for specialist applications.  The role will also be accountable for data management and archiving, and providing advice, guidance and instruction for image analysis projects.

This role is offered on a Permanent basis. It will be Full-Time, 38 hours per week.

Key Selection Criteria 

Experience

• Experience in experimental design, troubleshooting and analysis within the area of light microscopy, with hands-on practical experience within a research or facility environment and practical implementation of imaging related experiments.

• Experience in quantitative image analysis and software packages such as ImageJ and Imaris.

• Experience in setting up and maintaining long-term live cell time-lapse imaging is desirable.

• Experience in using and maintaining complex and high-end microscopy systems such as multiphoton microscopy, super-resolution microscopy and live cell imaging is desirable.

• Experience working within a core facility environment, in particular as it relates to cost recovery, provision of training and interaction with a variety of users is desirable.

• Experience in automation scripting for quantitative image analysis is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Broad scientific and technical working knowledge in microscopy and imaging of biological specimens and sample preparation.

• Demonstrable technical knowledge in a range of light microscopy techniques, such as bright-field contrast methods, wide-field multi-colour fluorescence and confocal microscopy techniques, live cell time-lapse imaging, as well as sample preparation techniques and how they relate to the imaging of biological specimens.

• Able to work with users to develop specialised microscopy applications to assist and enhance research outcomes.

• Excellent communication and user engagement skills along with the ability to show patience and tact when dealing with difficult users, overcoming challenges to provide a positive user experience.

• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team with open and active communication and display initiative to improve the user experience.

• Demonstrate a methodical workflow and the ability to follow instructions and complete tasks to deadlines.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills including an ability to convey complex information to students and new users and present information in workshops, meetings and seminars.

• Knowledge and experience in complex biological imaging techniques such as deep tissue and intra-vital multiphoton imaging is desirable.

Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) in a biological science, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

• Advanced microscopy and imaging training is desirable.

• Specialist image analysis training is desirable.

To apply for this position, candidates must submit a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and a current resume quoting job reference 1985. 

Applications close at 5:00 PM, Friday 28 August 2026. Applications will be reviewed when received and considered for interview prior to the ad closing.

TRI encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.