This is a Research Assistant, Foundations of Lung Disease role with The Kids Research Institute Australia based in Nedlands, WA, AU The Kids Research Institute Australia Role Seniority - graduate, junior More about the Research Assistant, Foundations of Lung Disease role at The Kids Research Institute Australia The Opportunity The Foundations of Lung Disease Team has an exciting new opportunity for a Research Assistant to join the team and provide support for a range of laboratory-based research projects. Our team investigates lung growth and development through infancy, childhood, adolescence and early adulthood across both health and disease. We are a large and multi-disciplinary team (including clinical researchers, epidemiologists, statisticians and basic scientists) that value teamwork, knowledge-sharing, and scientific excellence. https://www.thekids.org.au/our-research/strong-beginnings/foundations-of-lung-disease/ In this role you will specifically be involved in projects that investigate the impact of preterm birth on lung health outcomes. Under the guidance of experienced post-doctoral researchers, you will provide hands-on laboratory support for projects aiming to understand the mechanisms of preterm-associated lung disease. Some of your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Establishment and maintenance of primary airway cell cultures. Processing and storage of human biological samples (including blood, urine and nasal cells). Routine experiments and laboratory analysis (ELISA, RNA Extraction). General laboratory duties (buffer preparation, stocktake, cleaning etc). Based in our modern laboratories at Perth’s Children’s Hospital, this position will be offered on a full-time (1.0 FTE) basis. About You To be successful in this role, you will have undergraduate degree in a health or science related field, as well as the following experiences and skillsets: High-level written and oral communication skills. Demonstrated ability to set goals, develop priorities and meet deadlines. Ability to work both independently and as part of a large team. Willingness and ability to comply with laboratory and general health and safety requirements (e.g. PC2 regulations, Good Clinical Practice). A positive, friendly and can-do attitude. Previous laboratory and cell culture experience is desirable but not essential, with all necessary training provided on the job. Recent graduates with a keen interest in research are strongly encouraged to apply. 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. Click here for the Job Description Contact Name: Elizabeth Smith Contact Email: elizabeth.smith@thekids.org.au Closing Date: 25/05/2026 - 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. Before we jump into the responsibilities of the role. No matter what you come in knowing, you’ll be learning new things all the time and the The Kids Research Institute Australia team will be there to support your growth. Please consider applying even if you don't meet 100% of what’s outlined Key Responsibilities Providing hands-on laboratory support Establishing and maintaining primary airway cell cultures Processing and storing human biological samples Key Strengths ️ High-level written and oral communication skills ⏰ Ability to set goals, develop priorities and meet deadlines ⚠️ Willingness and ability to comply with laboratory and general health and safety requirements Laboratory and cell culture experience Positive, friendly and can-do attitude Interest in research A Final Note: This is a role with The Kids Research Institute Australia not with Hatch.
