Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Fellow - Bacterial Cell Wall chez University of Queensland

• Institute for Molecular Bioscience

• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position through to June 2028

• Base salary will be in the range $82,057.75 - $109,246.18 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)

• Base salary will be in the range $114,824.05 - $136,048.72 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level B)

• Based at our St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity 

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for a talented researcher to join us as either a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Level A) or Research Fellow (Level B) in the field of bacterial cell wall biology. This role is ideal for someone looking to deepen their expertise and grow their emerging research profile in bacterial biochemistry and microbiology. The project is funded by — and conducted in close collaboration with — a global industrial partner, providing a unique chance to work at the intersection of academic research and industry innovation.

You’ll be based in the lab of Professor Waldemar Vollmer at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, where you’ll apply advanced analytical chemistry techniques to investigate the bacterial cell wall. About the Vollmer Group - https://imb.uq.edu.au/research-groups/vollmer .

Key responsibilities will include: 

Research:

Academic Level A

• Work on a translational research program in the area bacterial cell wall structure and analysis

• Collaborate with colleagues and an external industry partner through working towards Milestones and Deliverables

• Utilize best practice research methodologies and participate in project discussions

• Manage research funding

• Write project reports

• Publish in reputable journals

Academic Level B (in addition to Level A Research Responsibilities)

• Develop an independent and/or team program in translational bacterial cell wall research for an industrial partner

• Develop novel research tools through innovative approaches and use these to improve the products of an industrial partner

Supervision and Researcher Development: Develop an independent and/or team program in translational bacterial cell wall research for an industrial partner. Develop novel research tools through innovative approaches and use these to improve the products of an industrial partner

Citizenship and Service: Develop partnerships, demonstrate leadership through mentoring, engage in internal service roles and committees, perform administrative functions, provide support to colleagues, and uphold university values.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

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.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

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 joining 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 including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

About You

Academic Level A

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in Bacterial Biochemistry/Microbiology.

• A profile in research in Bacterial Biochemistry/Microbiology and the Bacterial Cell Wall.

• Evidence of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences.

• Evidence of contributions towards successfully obtaining external research funding.

• Some experience in meaningful internal service roles and contributions towards external activities

Academic Level B (in addition to Level A):

• Evidence of experience in the analysis of the bacterial cell wall within external research funding. 

• A record of co-supervision of Honours and Research Higher Degree students to successful completion. 

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, education check.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

Questions? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Waldemar Vollmer [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.
 

Want to Apply? 

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Resume

• Cover letter responding to the ‘About You’ section

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact [email protected].

Other Information 

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close Friday 14 November 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-56607).