Laboratory Technical Officer - PC2 Histology

Advance discovery, enable world-class research and shape the future of histology in one of Australia's leading medical research environments.
- Salary: From $102,136 (HEW Level 6) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading- Appointment type: Full-time (35 hours), fixed term position for 2 years- Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
Are you a histology specialist who thrives at the intersection of technical excellence and research impact? Macquarie University's Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences (FMHHS) is seeking a Histology Support Specialist to lead the day-to-day operations of our PC2 laboratory histology facilities. This is a rare opportunity to apply your expertise in a state-of-the-art environment while directly enabling breakthrough research across neuroscience, cancer medicine, vascular science and more.
In this role, you will ensure histology services are delivered efficiently, safely and in line with regulatory requirements, supporting advanced microscopy workflows and the downstream analysis of research samples. You will promote best-practice histological techniques, provide training and expert guidance to facility users, and safeguard full compliance with biosafety, regulatory and institutional standards within a PC2 research environment.
Working side by side with researchers, you will contribute both technically and intellectually to research projects, helping to generate high-quality, reproducible data that underpins multidisciplinary and translational studies. If you value quality, discovery and helping others achieve their best work, we welcome your application.
About the RoleReporting to the Research Operations Manager, you will be central to the smooth running of the faculty’s histology capability across one of Macquarie University's largest PC2 research facilities. Your responsibilities will span:
Operational & Technical SupportTrain and mentor students, researchers and staff in histological techniques and best laboratory practices.Provide expert operational support for histology techniques underpinning advanced microscopy workflows, including:Tissue processing, embedding (paraffin and frozen) and sectioning (microtome, cryostat, vibratome).Routine and specialised staining protocols (e.g., H&E, Nissl, silver stains).Design, optimisation, troubleshooting and validation of immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) assays, including multiplex staining approaches.Application of in situ hybridisation techniques (e.g., RNAscope or equivalent).Develop, implement and maintain clear, up-to-date standard operating procedures (SOPs) and technical documentation.
Laboratory Maintenance & ReadinessMaintain histology laboratory spaces in a clean, organised and fully operational state.Ensure consistent availability of consumables and reagents through effective stock management.Maintain comprehensive equipment records and coordinate servicing, calibration and repairs.Liaise with vendors, facilities personnel and external contractors to ensure equipment performance and laboratory functionality.Respond to technical queries, provide guidance on equipment use and setup, and escalate complex issues where required.
Safety & CompliancePromote and uphold adherence to PC2 biosafety, chemical handling and waste disposal protocols.Ensure compliance with institutional, regulatory and legislative requirements.Contribute to laboratory audits, risk assessments and inspections, maintaining accurate compliance documentation.
Collaboration & Continuous ImprovementPartner with researchers, clinicians and core facility teams to enable high-quality, reproducible data generation.Provide specialist advice on experimental design, protocol selection and methods, and contribute where appropriate to manuscripts, reports and grant applications.Identify and implement improvements to laboratory workflows, methodologies and equipment utilisation, and evaluate and introduce new technologies and techniques to enhance research capability and efficiency.
About UsThe Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences (FMHHS) leads dynamic research initiatives across biomedical, translational and health services domains. Key areas of expertise include neurosciences — particularly motor neuron disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's, neurological rehabilitation and the clinical neuroscience of pain — as well as dementia, cancer medicine, vascular science and other emerging fields.
FMHHS operates Macquarie University's largest PC2 research facility, comprising two laboratories with a combined footprint exceeding 3,600 square metres. These cutting-edge laboratories are equipped with a comprehensive suite of specialised technologies, including advanced microscopy and imaging systems, histology platforms, flow cytometry and cell sorting instruments, next-generation sequencing capabilities, dedicated cell culture and blood processing suites, an analytical lab featuring LCMS and HPLC for small metabolite quantification, and electrophysiology rigs designed for both in vivo and in vitro research.
About YouYou are an accomplished histology professional who combines deep technical knowledge with a genuine service focus. You take pride in enabling great research, sharing your expertise generously, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. You bring strong attention to detail, a methodical approach to problem solving, and clear, effective communication that helps facility users get the most from the laboratory.
Essential Selection CriteriaA degree in Medical Science or a diploma of laboratory technology (pathology) with experience, or a degree and equivalent experience.Demonstrated expertise in histology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and advanced microscopy.Proven ability to optimise and troubleshoot experimental protocols and workflows.Well-developed organisational skills and attention to detail.A service focus and commitment to providing high-quality support.Experience maintaining safe work practices in a PC2 laboratory.
Desirable Criteria:Experience managing shared research facilities or core platformsFamiliarity with neurodegenerative disease researchExperience with human post-mortem brain tissueExperience with quantitative image analysis tools, multiplex imaging and/or spatial transcriptomicsCoding skills (e.g., Python, R) for image or data analysis
Please note: This role requires Category A Immunisations, a police check, and an academic qualification check. Applicants must also have valid Australian working rights for the duration of the appointment.
How to ApplyTo be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).
Applications Close: Monday 24 August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (AEST)
We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
For enquiries about the role please contact Louise Marr, Research Operations Manager at EMAIL louise.marr@mq.edu.au.
Why Join Us?Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation in 1964, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
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17% SuperannuationSubsidised onsite parking optionsFlexible working optionsTraining and professional developmentOnsite childcare facilitiesDiscounted health insurance (Medibank)Onsite vacation careEmployee Assistance ProgramSubsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic CentreOnsite GP, imaging & physio clinics
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Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
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