An excellent opportunity is available for a Research Assistant to join the Molecular Sciences Division and Parkinson's Disease Research Centre at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.

About the Position
This role is part of Synerva Therapeutics Ltd, a WEHI start-up dedicated to transforming the treatment landscape for Parkinson’s disease. Synerva leverages cutting-edge insights in neurobiology to design and develop first-in-class small-molecule therapies to stop neurons from dying in neurodegenerative diseases. By targeting the underlying molecular drivers of neurodegeneration, Synerva aims to move beyond symptomatic relief toward disease-modifying solutions.

Our multidisciplinary team partners with clinicians and lived experience to ensure we are translationally focused and patient-centred. The company aspires to develop treatments that can meaningfully improve outcomes and redefine what is possible for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and related neurodegenerative conditions.

The purpose of this position is to support the establishment of Parkinson’s patient stem cell-derived neuron and co-culture models in which to test small molecule drug candidate leads.

The position will work closely with other members of Synerva and the Dewson lab and contribute to the overall team. The successful applicant will work in a supportive research environment that prioritises innovation, collaboration, and scientific rigour. They will be expected to conduct milestone-oriented research to contribute to the development of new medicines in alignment with the Synerva project plan and to report findings to internal and external stakeholders. Publication opportunities will align with commercial priorities.

Selection Criteria
Essential Knowledge and Skills:

A relevant post-graduate qualification.
Background and interest in Parkinson’s disease and/or neurodegenerative disease research.
Demonstrated productivity in research outputs.
Experience working with stem cell models and mammalian tissue culture.
Experience conducting research in compliance with stringent human ethics requirements.
Proven interpersonal and collaborative skills in achieving research outcomes.

Desirable Knowledge and Skills:

Experience in human organoid models.
Experience with flow cytometry, imaging and biochemical techniques.
Experience working in an IP-sensitive environment e.g. commercial academic projects, biotech, pharma or start-up.
Experience with human ethics applications, amendments and reports.

Personal Qualities:

Excellent communication skills and the ability to work constructively within a team environment.
Excellent attention to detail and record keeping, ensuring that data, new methods and theories are accurate, of high-quality and accessible to other researchers.
Ability to manage time effectively and be reliable and approachable.
Ability to work towards focused research milestones.

Terms of Appointment
This position is full time available for 1 year with possible extension contingent on funding. Salary is Research Support Employee Level 5 ($84,479 - $97,036). Very attractive salary packaging options are available for general living expenses, meal entertainment, novated leasing and more. 12% superannuation payable, plus up to a further 5% after the first 6 months of service via our matching superannuation scheme.

General enquiries can be directed to Grant Dewson – dewson@wehi.edu.au.
A position description is available here.

How to Apply
Please apply by uploading your CV, cover letter and a document addressing the key selection criteria in pdf format.

Application Closing Date: Sunday 20 September 2026; however we will be reviewing applications as they are received, and WEHI reserves the right to appoint a suitable candidate prior to the closing date. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing this opportunity.