Research Assistants – Pathways to PhD Program for NZ Graduates

THE HEART RESEARCH INSTITUTE (HRI) is an internationally recognised Medical Research Institute that performs ground-breaking cardiovascular research from our state-of-the-art facilities located in Newtown. For over 30 years, HRI has been one of Australia's leading research organisations working to detect, prevent and treat heart disease. Our research has made significant findings that have changed the way we treat and live with cardiovascular disease.

HRI is offering a Research Assistant placement under the newly established and well-funded Cardiac Biology and Regeneration Lab. This is an exciting opportunity for Honours graduates from New Zealand considering a career in medical research, including the pursuit of doctoral studies. The position offers up to 12-months’ paid work placement at HRI’s state-of-the-art laboratories in Sydney, Australia. This fantastic program ensures you will receive training and full mentorship in groundbreaking cardiovascular disease research, as well as the opportunity to build your career profile towards a PhD. 

In addition to the benefits of working at an internationally recognised medical research institute, the program pays approximately AUD $82,000 plus superannuation contributions for the first year, plus a PhD stipend and the opportunity to extend your stay and complete a PhD with the HRI. Should the successful candidate obtain an external PhD Scholarship, HRI will provide a top up scholarship. It also includes a paid return flight from New Zealand and two weeks of accommodation assistance upon arrival in Sydney. 

Cardiac Biology and Regeneration Lab

The Cardiac Biology and Regeneration Lab led by Dr Nicholas Lam investigates mechanisms that drive cardiomyocyte proliferation and cardiac regeneration, with the goal of developing transformative therapies to restore heart function after myocardial infarction and heart failure. Research strategies include the use of genetically modified mouse models, modified RNA technologies, molecular biology, imaging, and functional assessment techniques. You will be provided with mentorship, training, support and career development opportunities to advance your career.

We offer:

·       Convenient location in vibrant inner-city suburb of Newtown

·       Easy access to public transport for Sydney’s city and transport links

·       Competitive salary and generous salary packaging benefits

·       Flexible work environment 

·       Rewarding work – making a difference every day to those living with cardiovascular disease

To view all of the benefits of working at HRI, please view our Benefits page: https://www.hri.org.au/join-us/benefits 

Essential Criteria 

·       You must be a New Zealand citizen currently residing in NZ to qualify for this opportunity

·       You must have completed at minimum a four-year full-time Bachelor of Science Honours degree (research project based), Masters degree by research or equivalent postgraduate program, including a research placement in a relevant field of study. (First class honours or equivalent is preferable due to the PhD requirements).

·       Must commit to HRI values and responsibilities

·       High levels of motivation and the capacity for independent work

·       A track record of being team focussed

·       Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills

Desirable Criteria 

·       Mouse handling and dissections

·       Molecular biology skills (RNA isolation, qPCR, protein extraction, western blots)

·       Immunohistochemistry and microscopy

·       Histology skills

How to Apply 

 Applications must include: 

·       a one-page cover letter outlining your reasons for applying, your interests in research and why you would like to join the Cardiac Biology and Regeneration Lab

·       your academic record  

·       your CV including referees (a summary of your work experience and other relevant activities) 

Please submit your application all together as ONE PDF document, using the following naming convention lastname_firstname_2026. 

Please note: Due to the volume of applications expected, only short-listed candidates will be contacted. This is a Category A position according to the NSW Health Policy - Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination Against Specified Infectious Diseases. The successful applicant will be required to provide evidence of protection against the infectious diseases specified, at their own cost, prior to appointment. 

Due to the nature of the funding arrangement, the positions are open only to NZ citizens currently residing in NZ and currently not residing in Australia. HRI will offer relocation assistance, and assistance with the cost of temporary accommodation upon arrival in Sydney.

The Heart Research Institute supports Equal Employment Opportunity. 

We value diversity and encourage applications from women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, Māori and Pasifika peoples, people with disability, LGBTQI individuals and applicants of diverse cultures and ages. 

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of our employees and affiliates and our community. Whoever you are, you are welcome at HRI.