Senior Research Assistant, mRNA Manufacturing

• BASE Facility, based in the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN)
• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 12 months
• Base salary will be in the range $85,452 - $94,984 + 17% super (HEW Level 5)
• Based at our Translational Research Institute location

Join UQ’s BASE facility and contribute to a purposeful, collaborative research environment supporting the manufacture of mRNA medicines. In this role, you will provide technical research support and subject matter expertise across mRNA-LNP manufacturing, helping deliver high-quality products for translational research in a cutting-edge facility that connects discovery, process optimisation and real-world therapeutic potential.

Key responsibilities will include:.

• Coordinate mRNA product manufacturing activities, including template synthesis, purification, in-vitro transcription processes and formulation.
• Validate and execute analytical assays to characterise mRNA quality attributes, including purity, integrity and stability.
• Support optimisation studies under the guidance of senior staff to improve manufacturing efficiency, yield and quality.
• Maintain accurate records, follow Standard Operating Procedures, troubleshoot technical issues and support the safe upkeep of facilities and equipment.

• Completion of a master’s degree level qualification in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences, completion of a Diploma with relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education or training.
• Demonstrated practical research skills and experience in molecular biology techniques, including PCR, primer design, nucleic acid extraction and purification, and in-vitro transcription.
• Experience using analytical techniques such as UV spectroscopy, agarose gel electrophoresis, capillary gel electrophoresis and HPLC.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures and maintain accurate experimental records.
• Ability to work independently on routine procedures while contributing positively to a connected and collaborative team.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to support reports, graphs, figures and presentations on research outcomes.
• Well-organised, methodical and self-motivated, with a commitment to safe, high-quality laboratory practice.
• Previous experience in mRNA manufacturing in an academic, biotechnology or pharmaceutical setting would be considered favourably.

As part of the UQ community, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available.

UQ’s BASE facility and biotechnology company Vaxxas were announced as stage winners of a prestigious global prize to accelerate a patch-based mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, reflecting the University’s role in advancing innovative mRNA technologies with translational impact. Read more about UQ and Vaxxas advancing patch-based mRNA vaccine innovation.

Enjoy up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% super, 17.5% leave loading, flexible working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on‑campus childcare, affordable parking, and salary packaging.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Sneha Lakshman Das at *************@uq.edu.au

For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at ******@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.

Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications, mandatory immunisations. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

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 ******@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close 27 August 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-67930). Please note applications will be reviewed as received. Candidates may be contacted for interview prior to the job closing date. We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. The University of Queensland reserves the right to close this application process early