Job Description

Job Title

n

Research Assistant - Stem Cell Biology

n

Job Description

n

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.

n

About the Position

n

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.

n

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.

n

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.

n

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.

n

Selection Criteria

n

Essential Knowledge and Skills:

n

n
- A relevant post-graduate qualification.
n




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

n

Desirable Knowledge and Skills:

n

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

n

Personal Qualities:

n

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

n

Terms of Appointment

n

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.

n

General enquiries

n

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

n

Application Closing Date

n

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.

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