Research Fellow in Cyanobacterial Nutrient Uptake and Metabolism
Macquarie University
Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie University
Full-Time
$112,550
HybridExecutive
Join a multi-disciplinary team aiming to systematically investigate nutrient uptake and metabolism in a fast‑growing cyanobacterium.
Nutrient uptake pathways in cyanobacteria are poorly understood, yet they are critical for understanding ocean carbon cycling and for harnessing cyanobacteria in biomanufacturing. The Macquarie University, School of Natural Sciences, is currently seeking a suitably qualified Research Fellow to join a multi-disciplinary team working to decode cyanobacterial nutrient uptake systems in collaboration with the University of Queensland, the Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology. This work, supported by an ARC Discovery Project, integrates protein biochemistry, physiological characterisation, cyanobacterial genetic engineering, high‑throughput functional genomics, transcriptomics and stable isotope‑resolved metabolomics.
The successful applicant will work with Distinguished Professor Ian Paulsen, Professor Esteban Marcellin, Dr Bhumika Shah and Dr Alescia Cullen to:
Construct a cyanobacterial deletion mutant library of nutrient uptake genes using biofoundry automation
Compare the growth and physiology of wildtype strains and mutants
Utilise functional genomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics to resolve metabolic pathways and regulatory networks
Provide day‑to‑day support to HDR students and collaborate closely with chief investigators to ensure the timely delivery of the project milestones
Initiate and maintain academic and industry collaborations, and apply for research funding
Communicate research findings in scientific journals and at conferences
About You
You will have completed a PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, synthetic biology, systems biology or a closely related discipline. You will enjoy contributing to impactful research outcomes and communicating research findings to a wide range of audiences. You have strong organisational skills and a collaborative mindset, and you are interested in mentoring junior researchers. If you enjoy working across diverse fields of research, then this is a role you will thrive in and a team you will enjoy working with.
How To Apply
To be considered for this position, please apply online by submitting your CV and a separate cover letter that demonstrates how you meet the following selection criteria:
Selection Criteria:
Essential
PhD or equivalent experience in molecular biology, microbiology, synthetic biology, systems biology or a closely related discipline.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work collaboratively and work independently without close supervision Experience with bacterial genetic engineering and transcriptomics or metabolomics
Desirable
We invite applications from international candidates.
This role will require a police/criminal history check.
*Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received on a rolling basis, and we reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.*
The Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University has a goal to increase the engagement of women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from diverse backgrounds in STEMM roles. Applications are considered holistically, and candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience does not meet each individual selection criterion.
Role Enquiries: Distinguished Professor Ian Paulsen, via e-mail ian.paulsen@mq.edu.au
Applications Close: Wednesday 8th of July 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST)
Pre-Employment Checks
Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.
Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workdayand go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.
Applications Close:
08/07/2026 11:59 PM
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