Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Synthetic Chemistry
Job Description
Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 1 year
Base salary will be in the range $83,698.91 - $111,431.10 + 17% super (Academic Level A)
Based at our St Lucia location
About This Opportunity
We are looking for a motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an innovative chemistry research program funded by an ARC Discovery Project. This exciting role offers the opportunity to work at the interface of chemistry and biology, contributing to cutting-edge research that aims to covalently attach redox-active transition metal complexes to protein surfaces.
You will bring a strong track record in synthetic chemistry. Experience in covalent modification and characterisation of proteins (bioconjugation) will be an advantage. You will have the opportunity to develop your expertise in transition metal coordination chemistry and electrochemistry, working within a collaborative and high-performing research environment that supports professional growth and research impact.
Key responsibilities will include:
Research: Produce high-quality research outputs aligned with disciplinary standards, contribute to competitive grant applications, develop an emerging research profile, and support the translation of research into impact, including knowledge transfer and commercialisation.
Supervision and Researcher Development: Contribute to the supervision and development of Honours and HDR students and research staff, providing effective leadership, feedback, coaching and support in line with University policies and best practice.
Citizenship and Service: Demonstrate strong citizenship aligned with UQ values through collaboration, internal and external service, committee participation, and the development of professional relationships with industry, government and the wider community.
This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.
About You
Completion or near completion of a PhD in synthetic chemistry.
A developing track record of publications in reputable refereed journals and presentations at conferences.
Experience in bioconjugation strategies will be advantageous.
Experience in transition metal chemistry and electrochemistry is desirable.
About UQ
As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged. As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.
The greater benefits of the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.
Interested?
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Paul Bernhardt at [email protected]. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section.
Other Information
Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia and qualifications. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.
You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.
We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing [email protected] or calling +61 7 3365 2623.
Applications close 12 May 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-60321).
Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for late May 2026.