Research Scientist

Type:
Full Time, Casual, Temporary, Contract 
Salary:
$73 - $76 per hour, Benefits: $73.76 p/hr+super
Published:
November 3rd, 2026
Location:
Menai, New South Wales, Australia
Reference:
BH-554974
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  • PhD biologist role in radiopharmaceutical discovery
  • Cell biology focus with pharmaceutical research
  • Lucas Heights - government - Citizenship essential
Position Summary

The government organisation is a leader in the field of specialised life science research and is recognised world wide. Join a multidisciplinary team developing novel radiopharmaceuticals through cell-based research and biological evaluation of new therapeutic compounds.

About the company/role:

This position offers an exciting opportunity for an early-career scientist to contribute to the discovery and development of next-generation radiopharmaceuticals. Working at the interface of biology and chemistry, you will support the biological evaluation of novel compounds before they progress into preclinical development.
The role is ideally suited to a PhD-qualified scientist with strong cell biology expertise and approximately 3-5 years of postdoctoral or industry experience. You will work closely with synthetic chemists and other researchers within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform mammalian and primary cell culture techniques.
  • Conduct in vitro and ex vivo biological studies.
  • Undertake flow cytometry and histology-based analyses.
  • Perform ELISA, binding activity and cytotoxicity assays.
  • Analyse and interpret experimental data.
  • Support assay development, optimisation and validation.
  • Collaborate closely with synthetic chemists on compound evaluation.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
  • Work with radiolabelled compounds following radiation safety training.
  • Contribute to research reports, presentations and project milestones.
Skills/experience:
  • Australian Citizenship status.
  • PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, Pharmacology, Biochemistry or a related 
  • Approximately 3-5 years' postdoctoral or relevant industry experience.
  • Strong hands-on experience with primary and/or mammalian cell culture.
  • Experience conducting in vitro and/or ex vivo studies.
  • Practical experience with flow cytometry and cell-based assays.
  • Experience with ELISA, cytotoxicity assays and biological characterisation techniques.
  • Understanding of chemistry gained through tertiary studies, research projects or industry experience desirable
  • Exposure to pharmaceutical development, translational research or radiopharmaceutical programs will be well regarded.
Culture/Benefits:
  • Please note: there is a 4-6 week security clearance after accepting an offer, so start date will be late Jan, early Feb 2027
  • Pay rate $73.76 p/hr+super (includes casual loading)
  • Opportunity to contribute to innovative radiopharmaceutical development programs.
  • Collaborative multidisciplinary team environment.
How to Apply:

If you think this could be the role for you then please apply now! Please send us a cover letter and a detailed resume. Please include your Australian Citizenship status.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.

Submission Form

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