Job Description

• JOB IS FROM: postdocjobs.oneVIEWAustralian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN)

• Full-time, 100% FTE Fixed-term position for up to three years at Academic Level A

• Base salary will be in the range $78,871.35 - $105,004.02 + 17% Superannuation

• Based at our St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity 

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to research on the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into valuable products using microbial fermentation. This project aims to expand the spectrum of CO₂-derived products by integrating anaerobic gas fermentation with aerobic chain extension of CO₂-derived C2 molecules. The primary focus is on the production of functionalized fatty acids for applications in polymer synthesis, the use as plasticizer, lubricants or fuels. You will work at the interface of microbial strain and bioprocess development.

Key responsibilities will include: 

• Research –

  • Design and execute metabolic engineering strategies to enhance substrate conversion and product synthesis by Pseudomonas;

  • Perform detailed characterisation of Pseudomonas strains in bioreactor setups;

  • Evaluate fermentation strategies and contribute to the development of the overall bioprocess;

  • Produce quality research outputs consistent with discipline norms by publishing or exhibiting in high quality outlets;

  • Participate in applications for competitive research funding to support projects and activities;

  • Work with colleagues in the development of joint research projects and applications for competitive research funding support;

  • Contribute to progressing towards transfer of knowledge, technology and practices to research end users through translation, including commercialisation of UQ intellectual property;

  • Develop a coherent research program and an emerging research profile;

  • Review and draw upon best practice research methodologies.

• Supervision and Researcher Development - Supervise Honours and Higher Degree by Research students, recruit and/or manage employees, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts, and ensure correct remuneration and benefits.

• Citizenship and Service - Develop partnerships, demonstrate leadership through mentoring, engage in internal service roles and committees, perform administrative functions, provide support to colleagues, and uphold university values.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad:  from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

About You 

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in microbial biotechnology, synthetic biology, bioprocess engineering, or related field.

• Demonstrated competence in the metabolic engineering of microorganisms

• Demonstrated competence in microbial cultivation and bioproduction.

• A strong understanding of microbial metabolism and familiarity with metabolic pathways.

• Previous experience in studying Pseudomonas is highly desirable

• Previous experience in fermentation process development is highly desirable

• Evidence of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences.

• Demonstrated organisational and problem-solving skills.

• Proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

• Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check etc

Work Rights: Visa sponsorship may be available for this appointment.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may be able to support you with the visa sponsorship process and a relocation support package. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

Questions? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Birgitta Ebert – birgitta.ebert@uq.edu.au For application queries, please contact talent@uq.edu.au stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
 

Want to Apply? 

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

• Resume

• Cover letter

• Responses to the ‘About You’ section

Other Information 

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments.

Applications close 20 August 2024 at 11.00pm AEST (R-40882). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for late August.