Research Assistant, Multiple Positions in the Cancer Team

The Opportunity

The WA Comprehensive Kids Cancer Centre integrates the clinical excellence delivered at Perth Children’s Hospital and the research expertise of The Kids Research Institute Australia and The University of Western Australia. The Kids Research Institute Australia delivers the Centre’s laboratory research arm via its cancer research teams and works alongside clinicians to improve childhood cancer outcomes. Our vision is to create a future where all kids with cancer survive and thrive.

As a Research Assistant, you will work within one of our collaborative, multidisciplinary research teams, undertaking laboratory-based translational cancer research. Depending on your team placement, you will design and conduct research projects, evaluate novel therapeutics using paediatric cancer models, and help translate scientific discoveries into future clinical treatments. Using a range of advanced laboratory techniques—including in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo models, immune profiling, spatial imaging, genetic and molecular approaches, and multi-omic technologies—you will contribute to research that is driving the next generation of childhood cancer therapies.

Cancer Preclinical Core: 1 FTE, two year fixed-term contract

Work as part of the translational bridge between our discovery science teams and the clinic. You will evaluate novel anti-cancer compounds and combination therapies using decision-grade in vitro and in vivo preclinical models, helping to accelerate promising treatments towards clinical trials.

Developmental Cancer Immunology: 1 FTE, two year fixed-term contract

Contribute to pioneering research using world-first paediatric cancer models to understand how childhood tumours interact with the developing immune system. You will help develop and evaluate innovative, child-specific immunotherapies aimed at improving treatment outcomes.

Translational Genomics in Leukaemia: 0.6 – 0.8 FTE, one year fixed-term contract

Work as part of a research team focused on understanding and targeting the drivers of childhood leukaemia. You will use patient-derived and child-specific models, alongside genomic and molecular approaches, to design and evaluate the efficacy of novel therapies for children with leukaemia.

Whichever team you join, you'll be part of a supportive and collaborative research environment where your work will contribute directly to advancing childhood cancer research and improving the lives of children and their families.

Based at Perth Children’s Hospital, these roles have varying fixed-term contracts.

About You

To be successful in one of these roles, you will bring:

• A Bachelor's degree with Honours (or equivalent) in cancer biology, molecular biology, biomedical science, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience working with mouse models and a commitment to conducting animal and GMO research in accordance with strict ethical and regulatory requirements.
• Strong technical, analytical and computer skills, with experience applying laboratory techniques to scientific research.
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks, manage competing deadlines and adapt to changing priorities.

Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills, underpinned by integrity, accuracy, accountability and a commitment to high-quality scientific research.

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 [email protected].

Click Here For The Job Description

Meegan Howlett, Head, Cancer Preclinical Core

Email: [email protected]

Anthony Buzzai, Head, Developmental Cancer Immunology

Email: ***email_hidden***

Sebastien Malinge, Head, Translational Genomics in Leukaemia

Email: [email protected]

Closing Date: 13/07/2026 - 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.