Research Assistant

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The Agriculture Discipline at Murdoch University is renowned for its research excellence and industry impact anchored in three leading centres within the Food Futures Institute: the Centre for Animal Production and Health, the Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems and the Centre for Crop and Food Innovation. The Centre for Animal Production and Health is internationally recognised with an ERA score of 4 (Above World Standard) and conducts cutting‑edge research including livestock health, welfare, nutrition, reproductive efficiency, growth, meat science and consumer attitudes. The discipline actively contributes to externally funded projects funded by Australian Wool Innovation, Meat and Livestock Australia, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s Future Drought Fund, and the Western Australian Agricultural Research Collaboration. In addition to its research strengths the discipline delivers high‑quality teaching in the Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences (with majors in Animal Science, Animal Health and Crop and Pasture Science), core units in Veterinary Science, Honours programmes, Masters in Biosecurity, and research‑focused PhDs. Your New Role Join our School of Agricultural Science as a Research Assistant supporting field‑based projects that drive the profitability and sustainability of sheep production systems. You will contribute to research on nutrition, ewe and lamb survival, stress reduction at weaning, genetic resilience to climate and disease, methane reduction and improved grazing practices. This hands‑on role involves setting up and running paddock‑scale experiments, collecting and preparing samples, maintaining research equipment and working across both research and commercial farms. You will collaborate closely with the team, with flexibility for travel, remote work and occasional out‑of‑hours or weekend commitments. Key responsibilities will include Assist with setting up paddock‑scale research sites on commercial and research farms. Support experimental treatments including data and sample collection from pastures, crops and livestock. Carry out routine sheep husbandry tasks such as feeding, weighing, condition scoring and wool measurement. Complete laboratory tasks including sample preparation and analysis. Maintain research vehicles, equipment and supplies. Work collaboratively with colleagues and partners ensuring all work complies with safety, ethical and policy requirements. Please refer to the Position Description for further details. What We Offer You This Fixed Term (2 Years) Full‑Time part‑time role offers a remuneration of $63,333 – $70,532 (pro rata) plus 17% employer superannuation contributions. You will join a dynamic and talented team where diversity and innovation thrive. Our Silver‑tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) awarded in 2025 reflects our commitment to LGBTIQA inclusion, equity and creating a safe welcoming environment for all. We strive to be the university of choice for First Nations peoples, honouring Indigenous knowledge. Sustainability is central to our community and guided by clear, confident leadership we are working toward an ambitious future with goals of net‑zero emissions and zero waste by 2030. Benefits Periodic salary increases between 1 January 2026 to 1 July 2026 totalling a 4% increase. Flexible work arrangements. Cultural Load and allowance – providing up to $8,944 per year to First Nations employees who contribute cultural knowledge and perspectives beyond the scope of their role. Indigenous Language Allowance. Salary packaging options such as purchasing leave, gym membership, car parking permit. Employee Assistance Program. On‑campus services and facilities such as a Childcare Centre, Gym, Vet Hospital and Chiropractic Clinic. For further information check out our benefits and services page Join us Please apply online via the Apply Now button along with submitting the following documents to support your application: A cover letter including a statement addressing the selection criteria (with reference to the Position Description). Your most recent resume (CV). What you’ll bring to the role Completion of Certificate II or III in Agricultural Science / Animal Science or an equivalent combination of relevant work experience and/or education and training. Organisational skills including the ability to prioritise jobs and meet deadlines. Demonstrated ability to record data accurately. Prepared to work with people from a wide range of backgrounds and able and willing to relate well to a wide range of staff and students. Applicants should refer to the Position Description for further details on the work requirements, duties, skills and experience required for this role. Applications sent by post or email will not be accepted. Applicants are expected to have current and valid work rights in Australia. Please see the Applicant Guide for more information. Applicants who have support or access requirements are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process. Contact Us For enquiries about the opportunity on offer please reach out to Caroline Jacobson, Head of School, and quote JR as the reference. The University reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time. Murdoch University acknowledges the different perspectives, skills and experience that people from different backgrounds bring to strengthen its workforce. Murdoch University is committed to enhancing diversity in all its forms and strongly encourages suitably qualified candidates from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with disability, people of CaLD background and people of diverse genders to apply for this important position. Key Skills: Laboratory Experience, SPSS, Data Collection, DNA Isolation, Stata, Biochemistry, Qualitative Research Interviewing, Research Experience, Statistical Software, Molecular Biology, Research Laboratory Experience, Western Blot. Employment Type: Full‑Time Experience: Years required Vacancy: 1 #J-18808-Ljbffr