Scientist – Neurobiology & High-Throughput Assay Development

Role overview

Tessara Therapeutics is looking for a driven Scientist to join its expanding laboratory team in Parkville, Victoria. The role centres on building and refining high-throughput cellular assays that will support both client projects and internal R&D priorities. A major part of the position will involve creating scalable, biologically relevant 3D neuronal models for use in disease modelling and drug discovery.

The right person will have practical experience in cell culture and assay development, plus the confidence to work autonomously in a dynamic start-up setting. Background in high-content imaging, assay automation, and commercial or service laboratory environments will be an advantage.

Key responsibilities

• Create, improve, and qualify high-throughput assays for both client deliverables and internal research work.
• Build assay formats that measure cell health, morphology, viability, and disease-related phenotypes.
• Carry out and refine protein and cell-based methods such as ELISA, flow cytometry/FACS, Western blotting, and imaging-driven assays.
• Support the upkeep and optimisation of 3D neuronal culture platforms, including advanced co-culture systems.
• Help introduce automated assay processes and laboratory workflows that can scale efficiently.
• Review experimental data, draw meaningful conclusions, and share results clearly with colleagues and clients.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to deliver R&D and client-focused projects effectively.

Requirements

• A PhD, BSc (Honours), or an equivalent qualification in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Practical experience working with mammalian cell culture.
• Proven ability in assay development and optimisation, especially in high-throughput or scalable settings.
• Competence in microscopy and quantitative image analysis.
• Solid knowledge of protein-based assays, including ELISA, flow cytometry/FACS, and Western blotting.
• Strong analytical judgment, troubleshooting ability, and close attention to detail.
• Capability to work independently in a fast-moving start-up environment.
• Well-developed communication and organisational skills.

Desirable experience

• Hands-on exposure to 3D culture methods such as organoids, spheroids, hydrogel-based systems, or advanced co-culture models.
• Experience growing neurons, astrocytes, microglia, or oligodendrocytes.
• Familiarity with high-content imaging, confocal microscopy, and image analysis, particularly in 3D systems.
• Exposure to assay automation or automated liquid handling platforms.
• Previous work in a commercial, industrial, CRO, or service laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of drug-screening workflows.
• Experience with functional readouts such as electrophysiology, MEA, or calcium imaging.
• Exposure to neurodegenerative disease models or translational neuroscience research.

What we offer

• The chance to work on advanced neurobiology and modern assay development at the cutting edge.
• A collaborative, inventive, and fast-growing research culture.
• Direct involvement in meaningful client projects and translational research initiatives.
• Annual pay in the range of $80,000 to $125,000, plus 12% superannuation.

How to apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a single PDF containing both their CV and cover letter.