Job Title
Research OfficerJob Description
An exciting opportunity is available for a Research Officer to join the Call Laboratory in the Structural Biology Division at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.
About the program
The Bridging Barriers in Brain Cancer (B3C) program aims to transform the lives of people affected by brain cancer by developing pioneering new medicines capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Led by WEHI, B3C is establishing a platform-enabled drug discovery and development pipeline, focused on targeted drug conjugates designed to deliver potent anti-cancer therapies into the brain.
B3C brings together a highly multidisciplinary team across partner organisations, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Monash University, the Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Queensland and the University of Technology Sydney, with the long-term ambition of transitioning B3C into a successful biotech spinout.
B3C represents a unique opportunity to build a purpose-driven, translational drug development centre from the ground up, integrating discovery science, preclinical development, translational strategy and commercial readiness.
About the position
We are seeking a Research Officer to join the protein biochemistry team of the B3C program. The ideal candidate will have experience in multiple aspects of cell biology and/or cell biochemistry. This role offers hands-on involvement in a cutting-edge drug discovery project, with opportunities to contribute to assay development, data analysis, and collaborative research across the multidisciplinary B3C team. While publication opportunities may arise, these will align with commercial priorities. You will work in a supportive, translational research environment that values innovation and scientific rigor, and contribute to the development of new medicines for patients with brain cancer.
Selection Criteria
Personal qualities
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work constructively within a team environment.
Excellent attention to detail, ensuring that data, experimental records, protocols, new methods and theories are accurate, of high-quality and accessible to other researchers.
Highly motivated, reliable and approachable, with strong organisation skills and the ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.
Willingness to learn new skills, with the ability to adapt to new tasks and continuously develop knowledge in a dynamic work environment.
Knowledge and skills
A relevant doctoral qualification (PhD or equivalent) in a field related to drug discovery, such as biochemistry or cell biology.
An excellent academic record and achievements.
Demonstrated ability and potential for excellence and productivity in research.
Research experience that has resulted in publications, conference papers or reports.
Proven interpersonal and collaborative skills in achieving research outcomes.
Experienced in fluorescence microscopy, with the ability to independently design, perform, and analyse imaging experiments.
Experienced in sterile cell culture including generation of stable cell lines (retroviral), and designing, performing and analysing single and multi-colour flow cytometry panels.
Experienced in establishing and troubleshooting cell-based assays.
Desirable
Experience with studying endosomal/lysosomal trafficking.
Experience with bacterial, insect and/or mammalian protein expression and purification.
Terms of Appointment
This position is available for 2 years in a full-time capacity. Salary is Research Employee Level A6-8 ($107,194 - $115,059), depending on qualifications and experience. Very attractive salary packaging options are available for general living expenses, meal entertainment, novated leasing and more. 12% superannuation payable, plus up to a further 5% after the first 6 months of service via our matching superannuation scheme.
General enquiries can be directed to Gabby Watson (Senior Research Officer) –[email protected]
A position description is available here.
How to Apply
Please apply by uploading your CV, cover letter and a document addressing the key selection criteria in pdf format.
Application Closing Date: Wednesday 19 August 2026.
Skills Required
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work constructively within a team environment.
- Excellent attention to detail and accurate experimental records, protocols, and data management.
- Highly motivated, reliable, approachable, strong organisation skills, and ability to manage time and meet deadlines.
- Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to new tasks in a dynamic work environment.
- Relevant doctoral qualification (PhD or equivalent) in biochemistry, cell biology, or related drug discovery field.
- Excellent academic record and research achievements.
- Demonstrated ability and potential for excellence and productivity in research.
- Research experience resulting in publications, conference papers or reports.
- Proven interpersonal and collaborative skills to achieve research outcomes.
- Experienced in fluorescence microscopy, able to design, perform and analyse imaging experiments independently.
- Experienced in sterile cell culture including generation of stable cell lines (retroviral).
- Experienced in designing, performing and analysing single and multi-colour flow cytometry panels.
- Experienced in establishing and troubleshooting cell-based assays.
- Experience with studying endosomal/lysosomal trafficking.
- Experience with bacterial, insect and/or mammalian protein expression and purification.
What We Do
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) is a medical research institute dedicated to improving health outcomes through discovery, translation, and education. WEHI focuses on developing treatments for cancer, immune disorders, infections, and diseases of development and ageing, collaborating to make life-changing scientific discoveries that help people live healthier, longer lives.
