Job Description

The Opportunity

The Sarcoma Translational Research team aims to develop new, safe and effective treatments for children with sarcoma and other extra-cranial solid cancers. Our research focuses on the development of novel immune-based therapies, for application in the local context, including application in the post-surgical area after removal of the primary cancer, to prevent cancer recurrence.

As our team continues to grow, we now an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant or Research Officer (level dependent on experience) to conduct laboratory-based research projects in the field of paediatric oncology. In this role, you will work under the direction of senior scientists to conduct research of the highest quality using techniques in RNA biochemistry and molecular biology to develop RNA-based cancer immunotherapies, to improve outcomes for children with cancer, in particular sarcoma.

Key responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory activities including PCR, western blotting, RNA/DNA purification and quantification.
• Conduct cell-based assays, including mammalian cell culture, cell stimulation and analysis of cellular responses.Carry out other laboratory assays as required and participation in the day-to-day running of the laboratory in cooperation with other researchers.
• Conduct data analysis using statistical software (GraphPad Prism, R, or Python).
• Assist with the preparation of scientific reports, figures for publications or conference presentations and preparation of relevant correspondence.
• Conduct background research as required.

Based in our offices within Perth Children’s Hospital in Nedlands, this full-time role will be offered for an initial 18-month period.

About You

The successful candidate will hold a degree (Honours/Masters/PhD) in a biomedical field, and will demonstrate:

• Experience with RNA biochemistry: synthesis, modification, purification.
• Knowledge of molecular biology and cell biology research methodologies.
• Excellent organisational skills, flexibility and ability to set priorities and meet deadlines.
• High personal motivation and ability to work independently and as part of a team, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills

At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we:

• Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.
• Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.
• Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.
• Partner with communities to strengthen cultural awareness and belonging.
• Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.
• We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.

Alongside our inclusive culture, you’ll enjoy:

• Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.
• Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.
• Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.
• Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.
• Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.

How to apply

If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application.

Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section.

Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contact recruitment@thekids.org.au.

#LI-DNI

Click here for the Job Description

Contact Name: Tao Wang

Contact Email: Tao.Wang@thekids.org.au

Closing Date: 06/11/2026 - We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.

The Kids Research Institute Australia is committed to being champions of gender equity, diversity, and inclusivity. We actively encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities, and cultures, including: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with diverse genders, sexes and sexualities and people living with disability. As such we are a proud Bronze award recipient of the first Australian Athena Swan Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) pilot program.

We acknowledge that when working in environments which contribute to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people, it is imperative that Aboriginal people are at the forefront of this work. We have launched the Aboriginal Employment and Career Development Strategy to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and researchers employed in the Institute who provide guidance and support in our work in Aboriginal health.