Research Assistant – Bioelectronic Medicine and Neural Engineering at Macquarie Group

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

10 May, 26

Salary

40288.72

Posted On

09 Feb, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Neurophysiology, Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory Work, Electrophysiology, Optical Coherence Tomography, Vibrometry, Surgical Techniques, Micro-Fabrication, Attention to Detail, Communication Skills, Teamwork, Compliance, Record-Keeping, Procurement, Safety, Ethics

Industry

Hospitals and Health Care

Description

PRIMARY DETAIL - Salary package: Part-time, 0.4 FTE: $40,288.72 per annum, inclusive of 17% superannuation (HEW 5.1, based on a full-time equivalent of $ 100,721.79) - Part-time, 14 hours, fixed term 3-year role - Based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde Creating a Sense of Balance: Understanding and Enhancing Electrical Excitability of Vestibular Tissues. About the Role This Research Assistant (RA) position is essential to the successful delivery of a major translational research collaboration between Macquarie University and Cochlear Ltd. The project seeks to advance our understanding of vestibular neurophysiology and develop innovative approaches to enhance the electrical excitability of vestibular tissues—laying the groundwork for future implantable balance prostheses. Working at 0.4 FTE over three years and appointed at HEW 5.1, the RA will provide consistent, technically skilled support in a specialised laboratory environment. The role involves assisting with delicate electrophysiological, mechanical measurements such as vibrometry, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) experiments using animal models. The appointee will play a critical role in maintaining laboratory readiness, supporting surgical procedures, fabricating custom electrodes, and managing essential administrative and compliance tasks. Key Responsibilities 1. Experimental and Technical Support Assist in electrophysiological recordings, vibrometry, and OCT measurements on animal models. Learn and support surgical procedures required for inner-ear research, following all ethics and welfare protocols. Fabricate, test, and quality-check custom electrodes, probes, and related micro-components. Customise, assemble, and maintain specialised laboratory equipment, including micromanipulators, amplifiers, and optical systems. Contribute to lab safety and compliance. 2. Laboratory Operations and Maintenance Conduct routine cleaning, instrument care, and laboratory organisation to maintain a compliant and safe working environment. Perform regular maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of essential equipment. 3. Administrative and Compliance Duties Assist in writing, updating, and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Ensure accurate and compliant record-keeping, including experimental logs, equipment registers, and ethics documentation. Support the preparation and organisation of materials for animal ethics applications, audits, and internal reporting. 4. Procurement and Resource Management Order laboratory equipment, consumables, and chemicals in line with University and safety policies. Monitor stock levels and support procurement planning to ensure uninterrupted workflow. About You We are seeking a passionate and motivated individual with a strong interest in neurophysiology, biomedical engineering, or related experimental sciences. You’ll possess a solid foundation in experimental techniques and a keen willingness to contribute to cutting-edge research. You’ll have manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to handle tasks like working with biological tissues and micro-fabrication, particularly when handling delicate tasks such as working with biological tissues and micro-fabrication processes. You’re organised, independent, and eager to learn new skills, including surgical techniques and operating specialised equipment. A commitment to lab safety, ethics, and scientific integrity is essential for success in this role. The role is primarily laboratory-based on campus, with some administrative work performed independently as required. Essential Criteria Completion of (or enrolment in the final stages of) a degree in Biomedical Science, Medical Sciences, Engineering, Biological Sciences, or a related field. Demonstrated experience in laboratory work, including handling equipment and following protocols. Strong communication skills, including the ability to document procedures clearly. Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary research team. Desirable Criteria Experience in electrophysiology, OCT, vibrometry, or microsurgery. Prior involvement in animal research or familiarity with animal ethics requirements. Basic skills in soldering, micro-fabrication, or electronics. Experience in writing or maintaining laboratory SOPs. How To Apply To apply for this position, please apply online by submitting an up-to-date Resume. Role-specific Enquiries: christopher.pastras@mq.edu.au. Applications Close: Wednesday 25th of February 2025 at 11:59pm (AEST). If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs. Applications Close: 25/02/2026 11:59 PM A Place Where You Belong At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework. Flexible Work At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page. 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.

Responsibilities

The Research Assistant will provide technical support in electrophysiological and mechanical measurements, assist with surgical procedures, and maintain laboratory readiness. They will also manage administrative tasks and ensure compliance with safety protocols.