The Neilan Laboratory of Microbial and Molecular Diversity is currently seeking two Early Career Researchers with a passion for Synthetic Biology and/or Microbial Genomics. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a world-class research environment while developing your skills towards an independent career in science.

As a successful applicant, you will conduct research on a range of cutting-edge projects. Focus areas include the discovery, characterisation and manipulation of natural product pathways, including those for cyanobacterial toxins as well as UV-blocking compounds and food preservatives. This research is both fundamental and applied, with outcomes including improvements to water quality monitoring and management, as well as the production of novel compounds of biomedical value.

Location: The Neilan Laboratory is located within the School of Environmental and Life Science (SELS) at the University of Newcastle (UoN). The Neilan Laboratory is a world leader in the molecular biology and biochemistry of toxic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and other microbes of environmental and biomedical significance.

SELS, located on the Callaghan Campus of UoN, is one of the largest schools in the University and encompasses a diverse range of science-based disciplines that achieved impressive ERA rankings in 2019, including Biological Sciences and Microbiology, which both achieved a maximum possible score of 5 (“well above world-standard”). These outstanding achievements provide excellent graduate outcomes and attract researchers and academics who are experts in their field.

Newcastle is a coastal city that lies 160 kms north of Sydney. It is bordered by stunning beaches and is within an hour’s drive of the world-class Hunter Valley wineries, the Central Coast lakes district and a world-heritage listed rainforest, Barrington Tops. The city has recently undergone revitalisation and houses a vibrant arts and music scene as well as an abundance of cafes, restaurants and boutiques.

Essential criteria:

• PhD qualification
• Basic molecular biology/microbiology skills, including microbial culturing, PCR, sequencing and cloning. Priority will be given to applicants with advanced molecular biology, biochemistry and/or microbial genomics skills e.g., in genetic engineering, protein expression, enzymology, omics, bioinformatics, natural product chemistry etc.
• Willingness to learn new skills, such as those listed above. Training may occur in the laboratory or via formal courses/workshops.
• Excellent written English skills and the ability to communicate research through peer-reviewed manuscripts, grant applications and reports etc.
• Ability to deliver tasks in a timely manner.
• Capacity and willingness to work with other team members (e.g. students, researchers and industry partners) towards a common goal.

Duration: 2 years, with the possibility of extension.

Salary: Level A, Step 6-8, $91,350-$98,059 per year, plus travel.

Contact: Please direct expressions of interest (250 words or less) plus your CV to Prof Brett Neilan brett.neilan@newcastle.edu.au