• Initiate, develop and conduct research programs in national and international arenas.
• Contribute to a dynamic program supporting the Metcalf Chair in Chemical Biology.
• Full-time appointment on a tenurable basis, subject to funding.
• Base salary range: Level B, $118,150 – $139,812 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The UWA School of Molecular Sciences delivers world‑class education and research across chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary, translational impact. Research and teaching span areas including chemical and structural biology, molecular genetics, ’omics technologies, synthetic and bioactive chemistry, materials and nanotechnology, supported by a strong, externally funded research portfolio and a vibrant PhD cohort. The School maintains extensive national and international collaborations with universities, industry, hospitals and community partners, generating high‑quality publications, patents and spin‑out companies. Teaching and research excellence is delivered by a balanced cohort of teaching‑and‑research academics, education‑focused staff, research fellows, and dedicated technical and professional teams.

The Discipline of Chemistry at UWA offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs and internationally recognised research across synthetic, bioactive, analytical, computational and materials chemistry, with strong links to biology, physics, health and materials science. With state‑of‑the‑art facilities and strong industry engagement, the discipline addresses global challenges in areas such as sustainable energy, environmental protection, medicinal and biomedical science, and advanced materials.

Further details about the School can be found at: https://www.uwa.edu.au/schools/molecular-sciences

About the opportunity

• Conduct high‑impact research to support an externally funded, world‑class research program.
• Contribute to research training and teaching, with a strong focus on developing student skills, experience, and graduate employability across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
• Support the School and University through service and engagement, including internal roles and external collaboration with community, professional, commercial, and industry partners.

About you

• PhD in chemistry or molecular biosciences or a field relevant to the discipline, or approved AQF equivalency with relevant industry experience.
• A demonstrable track record in excellence in research evidenced by peer-reviewed journal articles published in high quality journals relative to opportunity. 
• Expertise in the use of sustainable green chemistry approaches, such as mechanochemistry and/or ionic liquids to enhance nucleic acid research.
• Expertise in and applied knowledge of the advanced analytical methods that are necessary for the generation of high purity materials and unambiguous compounds’ characterization, such as 31P- and 15N-nuclear magnetic resonance, and high resolution mass spectrometry.   
• Expertise in conducting enzyme kinetic assays, stability assays, and protein conjugates formation assays using spectrometry, NMR, and/or MS.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.

Position description:  PD - Research Fellow (522721).pdf

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.

This position is open to international applicants.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.