Postdoctoral Research Fellow

PRIMARY DETAIL

• Work with leading academics and industry partners
• Build your networking skills
• Competitive salary with 17% superannuation

THE ROLE

An exciting opportunity for a researcher exists in the Applied BioSciences at Macquarie University. We are seeking a qualified Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a team with an international reputation for producing high quality research outcomes in the area of plant evolutionary and conservation genetics.

The goal of this project is to understand how genetic diversity and patterns of gene flow influence seed quality for a selection of Australian plants used in restoration. The establishment of Seed Production Areas (SPAs) for native Australian plants has become increasingly important to fill the gap between seed supply and demand. However, key knowledge gaps remain in understanding the genetic diversity and composition of SPAs compared to natural populations and how this translates to healthy seeds suitable for changing climates. The successful candidate will contribute to a broad project using genomic sequencing and population genetic analyses, field and glasshouse experiments and theoretical modelling. As part of a collaboration with Greening Australia and other research groups across Australia, we aim to provide basic research findings and practical guidelines for improving native seed quality across diverse plant life histories, mating and pollination systems. Ultimately this will help standardise and guide SPA development to improve the likelihood of success and the production of genetically healthy seed appropriate for restoration in a changing world.

We very much look forward to hearing from applicants who have demonstrated excellence in their past research, have several of the technical skills required to match the demands of this project, and who are keen to engage in a project that involves collaboration with academic and industry partners.

About Us

Applied BioSciences is translating biological knowledge into impactful innovations through collaboration and strategic partnerships. Scientific discovery – be it during our studies or working in industry or at a university – comes from a deep understanding of the fundamentals as well as from creativity in translating fundamental knowledge to impactful solutions to local and global challenges. We believe that creativity, commitment and collaboration are the keys to success. We are not afraid to tackle the big issues and stand at the forefront of sustainable change and innovation.

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation 55 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we’ve grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today .

Selection Criteria

To be considered for this position, applicants must address the selection criteria below, and attach your CV (including a list of two referees), a statement of research interests and achievements.

Essential criteria

• A PhD in evolutionary ecology, population or conservation genetics or a related discipline and/or relevant experience with combination of qualifications and skills.

• Experience with a broad range of population genetic and genomic techniques.

• Experience in the molecular lab and with DNA extractions.

• Experience with programming in R and/or Python.

• Experience with running plant glasshouse experiments.

• Experience and/or willingness to work in the field.

• Ability to undertake original experimental research, as evidenced by impactful and high-quality outputs.

• Ability to foster a nurturing environment for research students including the provision of research student supervision.

• Demonstrated capacity to work independently and as part of a team.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Ability for analytical thinking and independent problem solving.

Desirable

• Experience with plant ecology and plant mating systems.

• Experience with population genetic theory and use of simulation models.

• Experience with bioinformatic pipelines.

• Experience with High Performance Computing.

Salary package: Level A Step 6 to Step 8 (PhD) from $102,501 to $109,852 p.a., plus 17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading.

Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term for a period of 2.5 years

Enquiries: A/Professor David Field at [email protected]

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 Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close:

31/03/2024 11:59 PM

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