Research Fellow in Bioinformatics

University of Queensland

Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation / Centre for Crop Science

Position Type: Full-time, fixed-term for up to 2 years
Salary: $82,057 – $109,246 p.a. plus 17% superannuation (Academic Level A)
Location: St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

The University of Queensland’s Centre for Crop Science is seeking a motivated and collaborative Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Sorghum Strategic Alliance, a major partnership between the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and UQ. This position will contribute to a new 4.5-year research initiative “Super sorghum – unlocking improved yield potential in sorghum,” conducted in collaboration with leading seed companies and research institutes.

In this role, you will be part of a dynamic, collaborative and multidisciplinary team working to uncover the genetic foundations of yield potential in sorghum. Our research group offers a positive working environment and strong opportunities for cross-disciplinary engagement. Your research will centre on gene discovery, mapping, and characterisation of novel genetic mutations, using cutting-edge approaches in applied plant genomics and biotechnology. You will integrate bioinformatic tools, laboratory research, glasshouse experimentation, and field trial work to identify and validate genes associated with grain yield, plant biomass, and other key traits — including the analysis of novel proprietary mutations.

The position also offers the opportunity to collaborate directly with industry research partners, ensuring that scientific discoveries progress toward meaningful, applied outcomes for Australian grain production.

Key Responsibilities

Research

  • Establish a research program, collaborate on research projects, develop an emerging research profile, publish in reputable journals, utilise best practice research methodologies, and participate in project discussions.

Supervision and Researcher Development

  • Support and supervise students and facilitate engagement opportunities for HDR students.

  • Contribute to the development of research staff, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive research environment.

Citizenship and Service

  • Develop partnerships, demonstrate UQ values through active participation in internal service roles and committees, build external relationships with industry research partners, perform administrative functions, and provide support to colleagues.

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 work alongside leading researchers from around the world, in an environment that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration.

UQ is committed to educational accessibility for all Queenslanders and provides staff with world-class facilities, equipment, grant-writing support, research funding opportunities, and professional development.

Benefits of Joining UQ

  • Group of Eight university

  • Recognition of prior service with other Australian universities

  • Up to 26 weeks paid parental leave

  • 17.5% annual leave loading

  • Flexible working arrangements (hybrid/WFH, flexible hours)

  • Access to internal-only vacancies

  • Opportunities for career progression via the academic promotions process

About You

  • Completion or near completion of a PhD in genomics, bioinformatics, or a related field relevant to genetic mapping; OR completion of a Diploma with relevant work experience; OR an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.

  • Experience with genomic data (DNA/RNA sequencing and analysis) and experience with genetic mapping or genetic variant analysis (e.g., bulked segregant analysis, mapping population design, whole-genome sequencing, long-read sequencing) will be highly regarded.

  • Experience with R, Python, or equivalent programming language for genomic analysis is essential.

  • Demonstrated excellence in practical research skills and relevant research methodologies (e.g., DNA extraction, RNA extraction, PCR).

  • Well-organised, methodical, self-motivated, strong problem-solving ability, and capable of working independently while also collaborating effectively in diverse teams.

  • A developing research reputation with publications in reputable refereed journals and conference presentations.

  • Ability to contribute to advancement of knowledge, technologies, and practices for research end users and industry partners, including commercialisation of UQ intellectual property.

The successful candidate may be required to complete pre-employment checks including right-to-work and education verification.

Relocating?

UQ may support employer-sponsored work rights and provide relocation support. Learn more about life in Queensland’s Sunshine State via UQ resources.

Questions?

For role-related inquiries:

For application process inquiries:

  • Talent Acquisition team: talent@uq.edu.au
    (Include the job reference number below in the subject line.)

Want to Apply?

To be considered, please upload:

  • Resume

  • Cover letter

  • Responses to the “About You” section

UQ welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and is committed to accessibility, equity, diversity, and inclusion. If you require an alternative application method, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

Other Information

UQ’s selection process recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers or challenges affecting career trajectory. Applicants who don’t meet all criteria are still encouraged to apply. The panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities.

Applications close:

Sunday 1 February 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-58394)

Apply