Job Title

Research Assistant - Stem Cell Biology

Job Description

An excellent opportunity is available for a Research Assistant to join the Molecular Sciences Division and Parkinson’s Disease Research Centre at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.

About the Position

This role is part ofSynervaTherapeutics Ltd,aWEHIstart-up dedicated to transforming the treatment landscape forParkinson’s disease.Synervaleveragescutting-edgeinsights in neurobiology to design and develop first-in-class small-molecule therapies to stopneurons from dyinginneurodegenerative diseases. By targeting the underlying molecular drivers of neurodegeneration,Synervaaims to move beyond symptomatic relief toward disease-modifying solutions.

Our multidisciplinary teampartnerswith clinicians andlived experience to ensure we are translationally focusedandpatient-centred. The company aspires to develop treatments that can meaningfully improve outcomes and redefine what is possible for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease andrelated neurodegenerative conditions.

The purpose of this position is tosupport the establishment ofParkinson’s patient stem cell-derived neuron and co-culturemodels in which totest small molecule drug candidate leads.

The positionwillwork closely with othermembersofSynervaand the Dewson laband contribute to the overall team.The successful applicantwillwork in a supportive research environment thatprioritisesinnovation, collaboration,and scientific rigour.They willbe expected toconduct milestone-orientedresearchtocontribute to the development of recent medicinesin alignment with theSynervaproject plan and to report findingsto internaland external stakeholders.Publication opportunities will align with commercial priorities.

Selection Criteria

Essential Knowledge and Skills:

- A relevant post-graduate qualification.




- Background and interest in Parkinson’sdiseaseand/orneurodegenerative disease research.
- Demonstrated productivity in research outputs.
- Experience working withstem cellmodels and mammalian tissue culture.
- Experienceconducting research in compliance with stringent human ethics requirements.
- Proven interpersonal and collaborative skills in achieving research outcomes.

Desirable Knowledge and Skills:

- Experience inhuman organoid models.
- Experience withflow cytometry,imagingandbiochemicaltechniques.
- Experience working in an IP-sensitiveenvironmente.g.commercial academic projects, biotech,pharmaor start-up.
- Experience withhumanethics applications,amendmentsand reports.

Personal Qualities:

- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work constructively within a team environment.
- Excellent attention to detailand record keeping, ensuring that data, newmethodsand theories areaccurate, of high-quality and accessible to other researchers.
- Ability to manage time effectively and be reliable and approachable.
- Ability to work towards focused research milestones.

Terms of Appointment

This position is full time available for 1 year with possible extension contingent on funding. Salary is Research Support Employee Level 5 ( $84,479 - $97,036 ). 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

General enquiries can be directed to Grant Dewson – [email protected]. A position description is available.

Application Closing Date

Sunday 20 September 2026; however we will be reviewing applications as they are received, and WEHI reserves the right to appoint a suitable candidate prior to the closing date. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing this opportunity.

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📌 Research Assistant - Stem Cell Biology (Melbourne)
🏢 WEHI (Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)
📍 Melbourne