Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Protein Chemistry, Engineering, and Molecular Evolution — St Lucia, Brisbane

Expired

The School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences Full-time, fixed-term position through to 31 December 2027 Base salary will be in the range of $80,448.78 -$107,104.10 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A) Based at our St Lucia location About This Opportunity This is an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to focus their efforts on developing their expertise and emerging research profile in the discipline of protein chemistry and molecular biology. Our laboratory focuses on the study of enzymes that degrade β-lactam antibiotics, with special reference to metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs). Key responsibilities will include: Research Identify proteins of interest within the MBL superfamily for further characterisation. This will require the use of various bioinformatics tools and approaches. Expression, purification, as well as the kinetic and structural characterisation of diverse members of the MBL-fold protein superfamily. Methods to be used include spectroscopic assays (e.g. UV-Vis, fluorescence, etc), and chromatographic approaches (e.g. LC, GC). The candidate may be required to optimise high-throughput methods. Test the impact of different metal ions on functionality and the effect of small molecule compounds on enzyme activity (e.g. via inhibition assays). Prepare research publications and progress reports. Participate in regular meetings to discuss project objectives, methodology and outcomes. Work openly and effectively with colleagues and postgraduates across all the relevant disciplines, progressing objectives of the project, and in the development of new interdisciplinary research projects. Maintain experimental record keeping of projects and ensuring effective dissemination of results across the project team, whilst demonstrating autonomy and personal initiative to assist with laboratory organisation and documentation. Produce quality research outputs consistent with discipline norms by publishing or exhibiting in high quality outlets. Participate in applications for competitive research funding support. Review and draw upon best practice research methodologies. 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 relevant areas (e.g. molecular biology, biochemistry, catalysis, chemical engineering, etc.). Experience in protein purification techniques, enzyme kinetics and structural biology is highly desirable. An emerging profile in research in the discipline area. Evidence of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences. Evidence of contributions towards successful external research funding applications. Some experience in internal service roles. A commitment to participating in a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and safe research laboratory environment. The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia and education check . You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment. Questions? For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Gary Schenk schenkuq.edu.au or Professor Mikael Boden m.bodenuq.edu.au . For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talentuq.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 addressing the ‘About You’ section As part of the Selection Process, applicants shortlisted for interview will also be required to present a mini seminar (15 min) to members of the research group. 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 talentuq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments. Applications close 4 March 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-47681).