Research Associate - Behavioural Neuroscience and Molecular Biology

About the University

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

This Job is based in Australia. The role is located in Sydney, Australia.

Compensation & Employment Terms

• $113k - $121k plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed term – 2.5 years (to 31 December 2028)
• Full time (35 hours per week)

The role reports to Associate Professor Kelly Clemens and has no direct reports.

About the Role

• The Research Associate is expected to contribute to the research team working on an ARC Discovery Project investigating the roles of long non‑coding RNAs in cognition and intelligence awarded to Associate Professor Kelly Clemens (School of Psychology) and Professor John Mattick (School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences).
• The role requires expertise in behavioural neuroscience and molecular biology.

Specific Responsibilities

• Engage in individual and/or collaborative research in a manner consistent with the objectives of the ARC grant.
• Create scholarly impact in the discipline which is recognised by peers in the advancement of disciplinary knowledge.
• Conduct the research project under limited supervision, both independently or as a member of a team.
• Contribute to the development of applications for competitive funding under the guidance of senior colleagues.
• Mentor and guide students and colleagues and develop the next generation of academics through involvement in supervision of HDRs.
• Conduct advanced data analyses using appropriate tools and methodologies.
• Draft high-quality manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present findings at national and international conferences.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not affect the health and safety of yourself or others.

Selection Criteria

• A PhD in Molecular Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline (required).
• Demonstrated experience in behavioural neuroscience techniques and automated / semi‑automated machine learning analyses of rodent behavioural data (e.g., DeepLabCut, SimBA).
• Demonstrated experience in molecular biology and imaging techniques: core molecular biology approaches (e.g., DNA/RNA/Protein extractions, qPCR, Western Blotting, RNA‑sequencing, Mass‑Spec); in‑vivo and in‑vitro RNA knockdown techniques (e.g., CRISPRi, CRISPR/Cas13, ASOs, siRNAs); advanced molecular imaging (e.g., RNAScope, MERSCOPE).
• Excellent data‑management skills, with demonstrated experience in bioinformatics and/or advanced statistical analyses (e.g., Python / R, Linux environment).
• Evidence of capacity to problem‑solve and troubleshoot independently, with a solutions‑focused approach to research processes and procedures.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• High‑level communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

EEO Statement

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.