Research Associate in Chemistry/Engineering

Position Details

• Fixed term 4 years (with the possibility of extension) | Full-Time

• Academic Level A | $94,826 - $96,742 p.a.

• Location: Bedford Park

• View Position Description

About the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation

We are the leading Australian research and training centre tackling biofilm-related challenges.

The ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation, led by Flinders University, is a 5 year, $7.8m research and training program, bringing together 5 universities, 10 industry partners and key industry and regulatory bodies to deliver innovative research and biofilm solutions to tackle important issues for the maritime and water industries.

Biofilms grow on all surfaces and environments, from catheters to drinking water pipes and ships. They are complex organisations of cells that grow on both living and inert surfaces and are both viscous and elastic in nature. They can be made up of a single species or comprise several species of different types of microorganisms, including those that pose a threat to either human health or our environment. Biofilm attachment and development cannot be prevented completely thus they cost billions each year to those attempting to eradicate them.

By working with industries to develop innovative solutions that meet their needs and alleviate their biofilm-related problems, the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation aims to: transform biofouling management strategies for maritime platforms; train the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists and engineers; and to develop biofilm management strategies across the defence and water industries to address evolving regulatory stringency.

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Associate in Chemistry/Engineering to join the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation at Flinders University.

As the Research Associate, you will undertake research in Chemistry/Engineering and assist in leading the design and execution of a sampling system for the automatization of water quality and biofilm sampling.

You will also be required to:

• Successfully deliver on project milestones and key performance indicators.

• Contribute to the coordination, planning and execution the project tasks required to collaborate with industry partners.

• Assist with supervising and training postgraduate and honour students.

About You

An excellent communicator with the ability to collaborate and engage with diverse stakeholders and industry partners, you will be passionate about utilising your knowledge and experience to improve efficiencies within water quality and biofilm monitoring. To be successful in this role you will also demonstrate:

• Completion of a PhD in Chemistry or Engineering, or significant progress towards the completion of a PhD in these areas.

• Ability to apply, adapt and develop designs relevant to the sampling of water and of marine biofilms with experience in autonomous sampler design and in sampling challenging aquatic environments.

• Research experience in terms of publications and presentations and the ability to undertake collaborative research.

• Ability to organise and conduct field work, including water sampling.

• Laboratory experience, analytical capabilities, CAD design, Laser printing and manufacturing experience will be highly regarded.

Life at Flinders

We're transforming and investing in people and facilities to create contemporary, stimulating, and satisfying learning and work environments that reflect our core values of excellence, innovation, courage, and integrity. Flinders is refocusing its strategic priorities with the aim of elevating its performance to be a top ten Australian university, and amongst the top 1% in the world.

Reaching beyond the limits of buildings, borders, and backgrounds, ours is an inclusive culture that believes absolutely in equality and opportunity for all. We don't just accommodate differences; we embrace and celebrate them. So, why work at Flinders?

• 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options

• Flexible working arrangements

• Wide range of professional development activities and services

• We embrace diversity and promote equity and inclusion for all students and staff

• Vibrant campus life and amenities including on campus health care services , gym  and childcare centre (Bedford Park, South Australia).

Prescribed Conditions for Employment

• A valid National Police Certificate which is satisfactory to the University will also be required before the successful applicant can commence in this position.

• Eligible to attain, and maintain, an Australian Security clearance level NV1 as determined under the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF).

• Eligible to gain an Australian Defence Clearance and meet International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

• Please note that you may be required to provide evidence that you are up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, in line with the Flinders University COVID-19 Vaccination Policy  

How to Apply and Information

• You are required to submit Suitability Statement of no more than 3 pages, addressing the Key Position Capabilities of the position description.

• For more information regarding this position, please contact Harriet Whiley.

Please note, late applications and applications sent via agencies will not be accepted.

Applications to be submitted before 10.00pm:

17 May 2023

At Flinders we embrace and celebrate diversity and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Flinders. Fearless.