Postdoctoral Research Associate

Salary: $103748 plus 17% superannuation plus annual leave loading

Position: Full-time fixed term3.5 years with possibility of extension

Location: Callaghan Campus

About the Role

We are seeking an early career researcher with a passion for synthetic biology to join our team in a world-class research environment. The role will focus on developing a sustainable photosynthetic platform for industrial-scale production of valuable biochemicals from cyanobacteria. These compounds have applications in agriculture bioremediation environmental monitoring and health. This research supports carbon-negative biomanufacturing contributing to food and water security economic growth and environmental health.

You will be joining a community of professionals who are passionate about creating a better future for our regions and the world. You will be supported by a dynamic and inclusive workplace culture that encourages growth innovation and meaningful impact.

About you

You thrive in collaborative settings and are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning and research environment. You value diverse perspectives and actively contribute to a culture that supports mutual respect innovation and continuous improvement. You are eager to work alongside talented colleagues who are passionate about making a meaningful impact through education research and community engagement.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Expertise: PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g. molecular biology biotechnology microbiology or related field).
• High-Quality Research: Demonstrated recent ability to formulate a coherent research program working within a research group and publishing in high-quality outlets.
• Technical Skills: Proven experience in synthetic biology techniques including microbial culturing and advanced cloning.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare reports manuscripts and present research findings effectively.
• Engagement: Ability to contribute to internal academic service responsibilities collaborate with colleagues and begin developing external partnerships including industry engagement.

For the full list of essential and desirable selection criteria please review the Position Description.

If youre ready to join a university thats committed to equity and excellence and to contribute to a community that values your expertise and vision we encourage you to apply.

About Us

The School of Environmental and Life Sciences at the University of Newcastle is a dynamic and multidisciplinary academic community committed to solving the worlds most pressing environmental and biological challenges. The School provides a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate study options in areas such as biology chemistry environmental management food science and nutrition geology climate science and marine and coastal studies.

Our staff are internationally recognised researchers and passionate educators who integrate cutting-edge science with modern teaching practices. Much of our teaching is informed by active research ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are directly relevant to todays workforce.

Our School maintains strong partnerships with industry and government offering students valuable opportunities for fieldwork placements and collaborative research. These connections enhance employability and ensure our research has real-world impact. With a focus on sustainability innovation and critical thinking we are dedicated to developing graduates who are ready to lead and inspire change in their fields.

Our university

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader with a reputation for excellence in education and research. Ranking in the top 1% of global universities and among the top 40 for impact our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and create a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence equity engagement and sustainabilityoutlines the Universitys commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the Universitys commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities.

We are proud to be one of the first two Universities in Australia to achieveSAGE Athena Swan Silver Accreditationfor gender equity diversity and inclusion (GEDI).

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas and extend respect to Elders past and present. We are committed to strengthening Indigenous higher education and supporting Indigenous students and communities.

For more information click here The University of Newcastle

What we offer

The university offers a comprehensive and inclusive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing career development and work-life balance for all staff including:

• Flexible working arrangementsin line with the Universitys Flexible Work Policy supporting diverse family and personal commitments
• 17% superannuation access tosalary packaging options and annual leave loading
• Generous leave entitlements including:
• Additional University holidays
• Life Leaveto support personal and family needs
• Cultural Leave
• Parental leaveand support for carers
• Wellbeing and support programsthat promote mental physical and emotional health
• Career development opportunities including:
• Structured training and leadership development
• Support for teaching excellence and research
• Opportunities for global collaboration and recognition
• Great Lifestyle Enjoy the best of coastal living in Newcastle with stunning natural beauty a thriving cultural scene and easy connectivity to Sydney and other major theCity of Newcastlesite to imagine your future in Newcastle.

For further information on our benefits and perks please visit our website.

How to Apply

If viewing this on a job board other than the Universitys please click Apply to be redirected to our website where you can review the full Position Description and submit your application.

Your application must include:

• Your ORCID ID.
• A URL link to your University Academic Profile (or equivalent).
• A Cover Letter and Statement (uploaded as a single PDF):
• Cover Letter (max. 1 page) outlining your interest in the role and providing details of 3 referees.
• Statement (max. 4 pages) addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria as listed in the position description.
• Your CV (max. 5 pages) tailored to your discipline

Please visitherefor a guide on how to apply for a role. Its important you read this information to ensure you are providing all the requirements of your application.

Additional Information

• You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

For specific position enquiries please contact Leanne Pearson Senior Research Associate. School of Environment and Life Science at

Reasonable Adjustments

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application please let us know. This information will help us understand how best to support you and ensure an equitable and inclusive recruitment process.

Please be assured that anything you share will be treated respectfully and goal is to provide the best environment for every candidate to demonstrate their suitable skills and experience.

Please reach out to if you are experiencing any difficulties or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments.

Application close date:Tuesday 3^rd February 2026 at 11.59pm AEDT

We are excited to beLooking Aheadwith you!

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal Darkinjung Birpai Worimi Wonnarua and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

#LI-CH1