Research Fellow in Molecular Biology

About This Opportunity 

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the insect molecular biology research team at the School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability (AGFS) at Gatton. The lab focuses on insect-specific viruses, insect-pathogen interactions, pest identification, and biological control strategies.

This two-year position, with the possibility of extension, involves applying molecular biology and cell culture expertise to support research and consultancy projects. Based primarily at Gatton, with occasional work at St Lucia, the role offers a collaborative environment spanning agriculture, agribusiness, plant and crop sciences, animal science, soil science, and food science.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Conduct high-quality research, publish in reputable outlets, secure competitive funding, and collaborate on joint projects.

• Supervise and mentor students and research staff, providing guidance, feedback, and conflict resolution while fostering professional development.

• Transfer research outcomes to end users through commercialization and cultivate partnerships with industry, government, and the community.

• Contribute to administrative processes, participate in committees, and support internal and external service activities aligned with University values.

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

About UQ’s Gatton Campus

Established over 125 years ago, UQ’s Gatton Campus has a long history – from starting out as a dedicated agricultural institution, to being a field hospital during WWII, and to joining the UQ community in 1990. With this history in mind, we’re proud to have made the Queensland Commitment, to break down personal, financial, and geographical barriers facing students to make education opportunities available for all Queenslanders.

These days, our Gatton Campus houses innovative research and teaching facilities in agriculture, animal science, veterinary science and the environment. We’ve partnered with government, industry and donors to invest in major research infrastructure, facilities and technologies, including: the largest solar research facility in the Southern Hemisphere, the state of the art Queensland Animal Sciences Precinct, and over 1000 hectares of farms.

Additional benefits of joining UQ, as well the Gatton campus specifically, include:

• Genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process

• Access to greater research funding opportunities, including grant writing support and post-fellowship contracts via our UQ Amplify initiative

• Recognition of prior service with other Australian universities

• 26 weeks paid parental leave or 14 weeks paid primary caregiver leave

• 17% superannuation contributions

• 25% discount on eligible UQ Vets services

• Access to our $4.1 million UQ Sports facility

• On campus childcare, medical clinic, post office, and community garden

• Free parking and intercampus bus

About You  

• Completion of a PhD in molecular biology, virology, biotechnology, or a related field such as entomology or plant pathology, along with relevant work experience required for this job. 

• Strong knowledge of bioinformatics techniques, including sequencing data analysis, primer design, phylogenetic analysis, extraction of data from genome sequences, and population genetics. 

• Knowledge of compliance regulations for working in a PC2 laboratory and working with biological material that is subject to quarantine conditions. 

• Excellent practical research skills and hands-on experience with essential methodologies, particularly cell culture-based bioassays, viral titration, DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, cloning, and other molecular techniques. 

• A developing reputation and track record of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences. 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise documentation and contribute to systematic literature reviews and scientific publications. 

• A record of successfully supervising Honours and Research Higher Degree students. 

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check, mandatory immunisations, first aid and/or CPR certification, blue card check, etc. 

Work Rights:

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Questions? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr. Kayvan Etebari via email k.etebari@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 January 15th 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-45536).

Applications will be reviewed as received. Candidates may be interviewed prior to the job closing date. We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. The University of Queensland reserves the right to close this application process early.