Senior Research Assistant - Parkinson’s Disease

About This Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Receptor Transducer Coupling Laboratory, led by Associate Professor Sebastian Furness, and contribute to purposeful research investigating a potential therapy for Parkinson’s disease-associated chronic constipation. Working closely with a postdoctoral researcher in a collaborative, collegial and supportive team, you will investigate cultured cells and neurons in the mouse spinal cord while developing advanced electrophysiological and pharmacological capabilities. This work contributes to UQ’s broader culture of innovative biomedical discovery, including research that characterises proteins involved in cell entry to identify new ways of protecting human health. Read more about UQ’s research into cellular mechanisms and therapeutic discovery .

Key responsibilities will include:

• •Coordinate and undertake pharmacological assays using recombinant cells, maintain cultured cell lines, and support primary spinal cord neuron culture.
• •Conduct retrograde neuronal tracing in rodents and electrophysiological experiments, applying specialist research techniques and troubleshooting scientific equipment.
• •Assist with the design and delivery of major or complex experiments under the supervision of senior staff, while maintaining accurate electronic laboratory notebook records and inventories.
• •Contribute to safe laboratory operations, research documentation, literature reviews, data presentation, reporting, routine administration and laboratory meetings.

This is a full-time (100%), fixed-term position through until 31 July 2027 at HEW Level 5.

About You

• •Completion of a diploma-level qualification in Laboratory Technology with relevant work-related experience, a Certificate IV with relevant work experience, a post-trades certificate with extensive relevant experience and on-the-job training, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education or training.
• •Experience with, or a willingness to learn, small rodent animal husbandry and slice electrophysiology.
• •Experience in data analysis, data visualisation and statistical analysis.
• •Excellent record-keeping skills and a commitment to maintaining accurate, complete and current laboratory documentation.
• •High-level interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to contribute effectively within a collaborative and inclusive research team.
• •A self-motivated and organised approach, with the ability to prioritise competing responsibilities and meet research deadlines.
• •A commitment to excellence, laboratory safety and diligent work performed with a high level of accuracy.
• •Experience in G protein-coupled receptor biology and cell-based pharmacological assays would be highly regarded.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Associate Processofr Sebastian Furness . For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@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.

Other Information

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

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

Applications close Sunday 18th October 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-69377). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for Thursday 22nd October 2026.