About This Opportunity 

This is an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to lead a project to develop a rationally-designed vaccine against malaria.

By taking advantage of recent advances in genomic sequencing, proteomics, transcriptional profiling, and molecular immunology, we have discovered unique targets of T cell responses or antibody responses against malaria. This NIH-funded project will test these antigens as vaccine candidates by engineering novel vaccine platforms to enhance T cell responses and assessing immunogenicity, protective capacity and biological function in pre-clinical models of malaria. By establishing proof-of-concept for rational vaccine design from genomic data, this project is expected to advance the development of an effective vaccine against malaria with implications for other challenging public health threats.  

The candidate will work with national and international experts and gain experience in malaria biology, immunology and vaccinology, with a specific focus on novel vaccine technologies including mRNA and viral vector vaccine platforms.

Key responsibilities will include: 

• Research: Establish a research program, collaborate on research projects, seek and manage research funding, publish in reputable journals, utilize best practice research methodologies, and participate in project discussions.

• Supervision and Researcher Development: Supervise students, recruit and 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’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB)

IMB is UQs flagship life sciences institute, committed to improving the health of humanity through research and translation. Situated in a bespoke 7-level research facility, IMB offers an array of cutting-edge biomolecular and immunological research facilities, along with access to world-class resources and research expertise. For more information, please see the IMB website.

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 

• PhD in infectious disease, vaccinology, immunology, biomedical science or related area.

• Demonstrated proficiency to carry out high quality research, and proven record of professional achievement in the relevant discipline area

• Experience in mouse models of disease and animal handling

• Experience in cellular and molecular immunology, including ELISA, FACS, ELIspot

• Molecular biology expertise, including RNA extraction, RT-qPCR and molecular cloning.

• Excellent organisational skills, lab management skills, and ability to work to tight deadlines

• Excellent verbal and written communications skills

• Ability to work independently as well as part of a cohesive team

• Evidence of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations

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

Work Rights: 

Visa sponsorship may be available for this appointment.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We will 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 Professor Denise Doolan d.doolan@imb.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 Thursday 7 November 2024 at 11.00pm AEST (R-43991).