• Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation - University of Queensland
• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position up until 30 June 2027
• Full-time equivalent base salary will be in the range $79,096 to $83,863 + 17% super (HEW 4)
• Based at our Long Pocket location

About This Opportunity

Join the Food Quality Group within the Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences (CNAFS), QAAFI, providing hands-on support across laboratory operations, food research, and sensory and consumer studies. You’ll contribute to a variety of projects, including Sorghum research, while helping the laboratory run smoothly for researchers and students.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Support laboratory research and experiments, including food sample preparation, colour measurement, moisture analysis, specimen logging and the setup of equipment.
• Prepare and support sensory and consumer research sessions, including participant coordination, cooking and serving samples, software preparation and associated materials.
• Maintain effective laboratory operations through equipment maintenance, stock and chemical inventory control, purchasing, documentation, SOPs, laboratory manuals and research records.
• Support students, researchers and junior staff by providing guidance on laboratory equipment and processes, and assist with technical documentation and project administration.

About You

We are seeking a collaborative and motivated Laboratory Technician who enjoys working across practical laboratory activities, food preparation, sensory research and operational support. You will bring:

• Completion of a Diploma in Laboratory Technology, or a Certificate IV with relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education or training.
• Experience developing and maintaining SOPs, laboratory manuals, research records and other technical documentation.
• Experience supporting multiple research programs, including laboratory techniques, food sample preparation and chemical or mechanical analysis.
• Knowledge of food quality and food safety, with an understanding of sensory and consumer research and experience working in a busy food-safe environment.
• Experience using a variety of scientific laboratory and kitchen equipment, together with equipment maintenance, stock control and consumables ordering.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to prioritise and manage varied tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• The initiative and sound judgement to work independently and adapt to changing research priorities.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and engage confidently with research participants.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Emma Hassall, Senior Research Assistant, on e.hassall@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number below in the subject line.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section.

Other Information

Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications, professional registration (e.g. AHPRA), criminal history checks, mandatory immunisations, First Aid and/or CPR certification, and Blue Card checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close Friday 13 November 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-70460).