Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Research Associate (Chemistry) role at University of Sydney.
Base pay range: A$110,000.00/yr - A$116,000.00/yr.
* Full time, 2 years fixed‐term, located on the Camperdown Campus at the School of Chemistry
* Opportunity to drive a high‐impact research program on engineering carbon fixation in cyanobacteria
* Base Salary, Academic level A: US$113,400 – US$116,916 + 17% superannuation
About the opportunity
The School of Chemistry is currently seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Cyanobacterial Synthetic Biology who will work with the research group of Associate Professor Yu Heng Lau on engineering carbon fixation to enhance the growth of photosynthetic organisms. This project is funded by an ARC Discovery Project 2026 and involves engineering encapsulin protein cages in cyanobacteria, with optimal carbon‐fixing designs to be implemented in plants through collaboration with Professor Spencer Whitney at the Australian National University. The ultimate goal is to generate crops that are more resilient and resource‐efficient, leading to increased agricultural productivity.
Responsibilities
* Drive a high‐impact flagship research project on engineered carbon fixation, including cyanobacterial engineering, molecular cloning and library design, growth and enzymatic assays, protein cage design and engineering, protein purification, and biochemical analyses.
* Assist with supervision of junior research students, including laboratory supervision, project design, skill development, and career mentorship.
* Communicate and support research through writing of manuscripts, grant applications, and conference presentations.
* Help manage ongoing academic collaborations.
* Coordinate laboratory administrative tasks, including equipment maintenance and lab organisation.
About you
The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. We seek a candidate who has:
* a PhD in Synthetic Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a closely‐related discipline.
* Expertise in culturing and engineering cyanobacteria, or related microbiological experience.
* Experience in molecular biology or genetic engineering techniques.
* Ability to learn how to conduct protein purification and characterisation.
* Ability to operate and maintain biological equipment (e.g. FPLC, incubators).
Pre‐employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role‐required pre‐employment or background checks satisfactorily, and ongoing employment requires maintaining these clearances.
EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence, and we strive to create a community where everyone can thrive. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, and we welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
How to apply
Applications (cover letter, CV, and any additional documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. For employees or contingent workers, please log in to your Workday account, navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard, click on USYD Find Jobs, and apply.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full‐time
Job function
Research and Science
Industries
Higher Education
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