Classification & Regular Hours

Hours per Week: 37.5

Salary Grade: R2

The base salary will be $67,680 - $96,590 per annum*. Starting salary will be aligned with the successful candidate's experience, skills, and demonstrated qualifications.
*Based on a 35 hour week

Please note, this is a 1-year temporary full-time contract opportunity. This position is wholly grant funded.

Responsibilities

The Research Associate will apply their expertise and knowledge in behavioural neuroscience, neuropharmacology, and neurodevelopmental models of cannabinoid exposure to support a multidisciplinary research program investigating the neurobiological consequences of prenatal and adolescent cannabinoid exposure, under the direction of a Principal Investigator. The role will independently design, conduct, and oversee complex pre-clinical research studies, contribute to experimental planning and data interpretation, and support the achievement of the Principal Investigator's research objectives through technical leadership, scholarly contributions, and trainee supervision. The role will also prepare reports and other written material for presentations and/or submissions to various stakeholders as required. The position will play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge related to the molecular, cellular, circuit-level, and behavioural mechanisms that contribute to neuropsychiatric vulnerability following developmental cannabinoid exposure.

Qualifications

Education:

• Master's degree in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Psychology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline
• PhD in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Behavioural Neuroscience, or a closely related field preferred

Experience:

• 2 years of post-graduate research experience in behavioural neuroscience, neuropharmacology, or a closely related academic research environment
• Experience conducting behavioural pharmacology studies using pre-clinical rodent models
• Experience with experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of complex research findings
• Experience preparing scientific manuscripts, technical reports, and research-related documentation
• Preferred:
  • Experience with neurodevelopmental models of prenatal and adolescent cannabinoid exposure
  • Experience performing in vivo neuronal electrophysiology and electrophysiological data analysis
  • Experience using MALDI mass spectrometry imaging for neurochemical analyses
  • Experience conducting molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, protein extraction, and proteomic analyses
  • Experience with histological and immunohistochemical techniques
  • Experience supervising and mentoring research trainees and students
  • Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications and scholarly contributions

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of behavioural neuroscience, neuropharmacology, and neurodevelopmental research methodologies
• Advanced knowledge of behavioural pharmacology using pre-clinical rodent models
• Demonstrated expertise in rodent handling, behavioural testing, surgical procedures, and experimental design
• Advanced knowledge of in vivo neuronal electrophysiology techniques, neural recording methodologies, and electrophysiological data analysis
• Demonstrated proficiency with MALDI mass spectrometry imaging and spatial neurochemical analyses
• Strong molecular biology skills including PCR, qPCR, protein extraction, Western blotting, and quantitative proteomic techniques
• Familiarity with histological and immunohistochemical procedures
• Strong analytical and statistical skills with the ability to interpret complex scientific data and identify meaningful outcomes
• Ability to design, implement, and optimize complex experimental approaches
• Exceptional scientific writing skills with the ability to prepare high-quality manuscripts, grant applications, reports, and presentations
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary research teams and establish productive research partnerships
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and research activities
• Ability to provide guidance, mentorship, training, and constructive feedback to students and trainees
• Ability to identify and resolve scientific and technical challenges using sound judgment and innovative approaches
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to research accuracy, integrity, and reproducibility
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive research information appropriately
• Knowledge of applicable research ethics, animal care, laboratory safety, and regulatory requirements
• Advanced skills in statistical software, data analysis applications, and scientific computing tools
• Demonstrated ability to remain current with advances in the field and incorporate emerging methodologies into research activities

Background Checks

Please note, successful applicants may be required to produce a current police information check from a police service prior to commencing employment.

Please Note:

This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.