About The Area
* Work at the cutting edge of next‐generation biomanufacturing within a globally recognised synthetic biology research environment.
* Grow your career in an interdisciplinary, well‐resourced ecosystem with access to advanced facilities, platforms, and strong industry collaborations.
* Full‐time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed‐term basis for 2 years.
* Base salary range: Level A, $112,371 p.a. (pro‐rata) plus 17% superannuation.
About The Opportunity
This position is part of a major interdisciplinary research program focused on establishing Vibrio natriegens—the fastest‐growing bacterium known—as a next‐generation microbial cell factory for sustainable biomanufacturing. The project aims to convert sugarcane‐derived feedstocks into high‐value polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), offering scalable, low‐carbon alternatives to petroleum‐based plastics. By integrating advanced strain engineering with rigorous bioprocess optimisation, the programme seeks to deliver high‐productivity, seawater‐based, and resource‐efficient fermentation systems that are economically and environmentally competitive.
Role
As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will play a central role in translating laboratory‐scale advances into robust, scalable processes. Your work will span small‐scale screening through to early pilot‐scale operation, with a strong emphasis on the following:
* High‐cell‐density and fed‐batch cultivation
* Media and feeding strategy optimisation
* Process robustness and reproducibility
* Scale‐down and early scale‐up modelling
* Integration of strain performance, sustainability, and techno‐economic constraints
You will work closely with strain engineers, students, and collaborators in a highly integrated team, where biological design, process performance, and commercial considerations jointly inform development decisions. The role also involves contributing to high‐impact publications, student supervision, and future funding proposals, providing strong exposure to translational research and career development opportunities.
About You
* Degree qualification or equivalent experience in bioprocess engineering, chemical engineering, biotechnology, or a related discipline
* Experience in microbial fermentation, bioprocess development, and hands‐on bioreactor operation
* Strong analytical ability, including quantitative data analysis and familiarity with HPLC, GC, LC–MS
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
* Experience with scale‐up/scale‐down approaches and an understanding of sustainability or techno‐economic considerations
Note
Employment checks will include information on gender‐based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.
Benefits
* Flexible working options.
* Generous paid leave including parental leave.
* Up to 17% employer‐paid superannuation.
* Salary packaging available.
* Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
* Discounted UWA course fees.
* Discounted health insurance.
* Employee Assistance Program.
Our Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.
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