Postdoctoral Fellow in examines metabolism in the intracellular parasites Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum and how this changes as parasites encounter different nutrient conditions in their hosts.

Classification: Academic Level A
Salary package: $89,313 – $112,103 per annum plus 17% superannuation
Terms: Full time, Fixed term (Up to 31 December 2028)

The Position

The Research School of Biology is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Fellow to contribute to an ARC Discovery project led by A/Prof Giel van Dooren and A/Prof Adele Lehane. The project examines metabolism in the intracellular parasites Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum and how this changes as parasites encounter different nutrient conditions in their hosts.

The Person

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A PhD degree and relevant experience in a biological or biomedical field.
• Experience in establishing, performing and interpreting complex molecular biology, biochemical and physiological assays to measure biological processes. Experience in animal handling and genetic engineering approaches are not essential but will be regarded positively.
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a larger research team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to draft research papers.
• A demonstrated understanding of equal opportunity principles and policies and a commitment to their application in a University context.

Key responsibilities of the researcher will include:

• Undertaking complex experiments to address the research questions of the project, including but not limited to:
  • CRISPR-based genetic screens to identify novel genes that contribute to parasite metabolism in different nutritional environments;
  • Targeted genetic modifications of parasites to study the roles of gene products in cellular metabolism;
  • Biochemical and physiological assays to study aspects of parasite metabolism;
  • The preparation of parasite samples for metabolomic analyses;
  • Mouse infection experiments that test the roles of particular metabolic pathways on parasite dissemination in the host.
• Undertaking appropriate statistical analyses and curating large data sets as required, and drafting research papers to disseminate the findings of the project.
• Co-supervising student projects and providing research support and technical expertise to students, staff and visitors within the laboratory.
• Complying with all ANU policies and procedures, in particular those relating to work health and safety and equal opportunity.

The School

The Research School of Biology is one of the premier biology departments in Australia. A particular strength of the school is its highly integrated parasitology research groups, who focus on the physiology and cell biology of apicomplexan parasites, including the causative agents of toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii) and malaria (Plasmodium falciparum), with a view to identifying much needed therapeutic agents against these intracellular pathogens.

The College

The ANU College of Science and Medicine encompasses the disciplines of: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environment and Society, Mathematics, Physics, and Science Communication and is also home to a number of cross-disciplinary and specialist Institutes and Centres.  Staff and students within the ANU College of Science and Medicine conduct research and deliver a research-led education program that encompasses the breadth of the sciences, supported by extensive international networks and by world-class facilities.

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For further information please contact, A/Prof Giel van Dooren, T: +61 2 6125 0665, E: giel.vandooren@anu.edu.au

The University actively encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For more information on employment opportunities, contact our Indigenous Employment Consultant on indigenous.employment@anu.edu.au

ANU values diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to people of all backgrounds and identities.  For more information about staff equity at ANU, click here. For enquiries about the application process, or if you require reasonable adjustment to apply for this role, please contact the hiring manager on the above listed details.

Application information

In order to apply for this role please make sure that you upload the following documents:

• A statement addressing each of the selection criteria.
• A current curriculum vitae (CV) which includes the names and contact details of at least three referees (preferably including a current or previous supervisor). If your CV does not include referees you can complete these online when prompted in the application form.

Applications which do not address the selection criteria may not be considered for the position.

Please note: The successful candidate will be required to undergo a background check during the recruitment process. An offer of employment is conditional on satisfactory results.