Research Assistant (MRFF) Britt Laboratory

At Peter Mac we aim to continuously improve cancer care, research and education across all cancers and for all people affected by cancer: changing lives, breaking new ground. Everything we do is underpinned by our core values, Excellence, Compassion and Innovation. Welcoming people from a wide variety of different backgrounds and experiences is critical to fostering innovation, cultivating compassion, attracting and retaining top talent and providing the best possible cancer care for our patients.
 
YOUR ROLE IN OUR FUTURE
Research Assistant, Britt Laboratory
•    12 month Fixed-term, Full-time position – 80 Hours per Fortnight
•    Level A, 1RA2 - 1RA6 (depending on qualifications and experience)
•    Attractive salary packaging options are available
 
About the Role
We are seeking a highly enthusiastic and engaging Research Assistant to join the Britt laboratory, supporting an MRFF-funded study on how familial breast cancer risk impacts the function of breast epithelial and immune cells. This role will involve DNA extractions, processing of patient tissue samples, DNA/RNA extraction for downstream sequencing studies, flow cytometry, microscopy and tissue culture.  The successful candidate should hold an honours degree (as a minimum) in a relevant discipline, with a strong background in cancer research being highly desirable. We are looking for someone with proven independence, ability to work with a team, and excellent troubleshooting skills. 
 
For more information on recent publications and projects currently running in the Britt lab see: https://www.petermac.org/research/research-programs-and-labs/cancer-evolution-and-metastasis-program-lab/kara-britt-lab. The lab welcomes applications from people of diverse backgrounds. This position is full-time initially for a fixed term of 12 months. Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.  
 
About You
You will have excellent written and oral communication skills with a demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team.
 
You'll bring with you:
•    Proven experience in working with human tissue culture
•    Proficiency in DNA and RNA extraction techniques
•    Flow cytometry experience
•    Bachelor’s degree in Science with Honours or a Master’s degree
•    Strong critical thinking and troubleshooting abilities
•    Meticulous attention to detail and strong record-keeping abilities
•    Capacity to contribute to laboratory maintenance and administrative tasks
 
Our benefits
We offer a range of benefits which support our people both personally and professionally, including:
•    Up to $11,660 in salary packaging to increase your take home pay
•    Discounted health insurance and eye care
•    A comprehensive health and wellbeing program
•    Public transport options at our doorstep and end of trip facilities for cyclists
•    Onsite eateries and coffee shops and inviting rooftop garden spaces
•    Pathways for professional development and new career opportunities
•    Five weeks annual leave, 17.5% leave loading, purchased leave options & monthly ADOs
•    Flexible, hybrid working practices
 
Inclusion and belonging
Peter Mac celebrates, values and supports a diverse and inclusive environment which reflects our vibrant community. We encourage applications from anyone identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. We also welcome anyone who identifies as LGBTQIA+, linguistically, culturally and/or gender diverse, people with disability, and people of any age to apply for our roles.
 
Join us!
If you feel this role is right for you we warmly invite you to apply, and encourage your early application. All appointments are made subject to a satisfactory police check and may include vaccination requirements. Should you need assistance or require any adjustments or accommodations to fully participate in the application or interview process, you are welcome to reach out to the contact person listed. We acknowledge that not all applicants will meet the full list of selection criteria outlined, and wherever possible we will consider applications where relevant experience can apply.
 
Applicants to this role should provide a covering letter, resume and response to selection criteria outlining relative key skills and experience to assist us with our assessment.
 
For further information about this opportunity, click Apply to be redirected to the Peter Mac Careers page where you can review the position summary. 

Alternatively, please contact A/Prof Kara Britt (Group Leader), via email in the first instance for a confidential discussion.
Hiring Manager: Kara Britt, Associate Professor
Email: [email protected] 
 
Applications Close: 11:59PM Thursday 19 February 2026

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For further information about this opportunity, click Apply to be redirected to the Peter Mac Careers page where you can review the position profile. Alternatively, please contact us for a confidential discussion.

Peter Mac is a child safe organisation and has a commitment to child safety and wellbeing.

WHY WORK FOR PETER MAC

• Peter Mac offer a range of benefits which support our people both personally and professionally.


• Our staff benefits include award winning facilities, professional development and events, a health and wellbeing program, flexible work practices and policies and financial benefits such as salary packaging.


• We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, all members of the LGBTQI community and people with a disability.