Job Title
Research Assistant Accountant
Job Description
WEHI is transforming how our professional services empower and enable scientists to deliver world‑leading medical research now and into the future. Following a holistic review and redesign across our professional services portfolios, we are now focused on strengthening our critical capabilities, aligning our structures and systems with strategic priorities, and empowering our people to do what they do best. We are now recruiting a variety of newly established positions to help shape and embed these new ways of working.
An exciting opportunity is available for a Research Assistant Accountant to join the Finance Department at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.
About the position
The Research Assistant Accountant provides financial administration support across the Institute’s research portfolio. The role is responsible for assisting with the establishment and maintenance of grant financial structures, processing financial transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, supporting reconciliations and reporting activities, and contributing to the preparation of financial acquittals and audit requirements.
Working closely with the Research Accountant, Finance team, and researchers, the Research Assistant Accountant helps ensure research grant finances are managed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with funding agreements, Institute policies, and financial compliance requirements. The role provides administrative and operational support across a range of finance activities and assists in maintaining the integrity of financial information and reporting.
Selection Criteria
Personal qualities
High level of integrity, accuracy, and attention to detail.
Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to understand new concepts and apply them in practice.
Demonstrated growth mindset, curiosity, and willingness to learn in a dynamic and evolving environment.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities, processes, systems, and compliance requirements.
Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
Collaborative team player with a proactive approach to supporting colleagues and stakeholders.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships and provide high-quality customer service.
Knowledge and skills
Degree or diploma in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
Progress toward, or interest in pursuing, a professional qualification (e.g. CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand) is desirable.
Strong Excel skills and experience working with financial systems and data.
Demonstrated ability to analyse financial information, identify issues, and contribute to practical solutions.
Understanding of core accounting principles, financial controls, and reconciliation processes.
Experience supporting financial administration, project accounting, grants accounting, research finance, or a similar environment is desirable.
Ability to learn and interpret funding, compliance, and reporting requirements and apply them accurately.
Experience working in a complex organisation with multiple stakeholders is desirable.
Terms of appointment
This position is ongoing in a full time capacity. Salary is Professional Services 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 [email protected].
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: 28 June 2026.
