Postdoctoral Research Fellow – RNA Biology

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in RNA Biology

Join a visionary and collaborative research team focused on developing innovative RNA-based crop protection technologies that can help shape a more sustainable future for Australian agriculture.

As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in RNA Biology, you will play a key role in advancing research within the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) funded Soil Borne Disease Initiative.

Working alongside leading researchers from The University of Queensland and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries, you will investigate RNA-based biopesticides to protect grain crops from root lesion nematodes, a major constraint on grain production.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-impact, industry-connected research while building your career within a globally recognised research environment.

Key responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

• Research: Lead and contribute to high-quality research in RNA interference (RNAi) for plant protection against root lesion nematodes, including experimental design, laboratory investigations, data analysis and publication of research outcomes.
• Prepare reports and presentations for industry partners and stakeholders, contribute to grant applications, and participate in collaborative research activities with government and industry.
• Supervision and Researcher Development: Support and mentor research assistants, higher degree by research students, and contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate training activities.
• Citizenship and Service: Contribute to a supportive, inclusive and collaborative research culture through active participation in service, engagement and partnership-building activities across the University and broader community.

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

  About You:

  • Completion of a PhD in RNAi, plant molecular biology, nematode molecular biology, or a closely related discipline, Post Doctoral experience in this role would be advantageous.
  • Demonstrated expertise in RNA-focused molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, restriction digests, RNA expression and purification, detection methodologies, and molecular analysis.
  • Experience planning, managing and delivering research projects independently while meeting project objectives and deadlines.
  • Evidence of scientific research achievement, including publication of research outputs in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary and industry-engaged research environments.
  • Strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills, with a high level of professional integrity.
  • Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, presentations and scientific publications.
  • Desirable experience with transcriptomic analysis, bioinformatics tools, plant pathology systems, and engagement with industry stakeholders or funding bodies.

    About UQ:

    As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds from around the world within a collaborative, inclusive and inspiring environment where interdisciplinary partnerships drive meaningful impact.

    At UQ, we are creating change together. You will be challenged, inspired and rewarded while working with a connected network of researchers, industry partners and innovators committed to solving real-world problems through discovery, translation and impact.

    UQ continues to invest in world-class agricultural and plant science capability. Researchers recently unveiled the Plant Futures Facility, a $65 million state-of-the-art research facility at the St Lucia campus designed to accelerate crop innovation and precision plant research.

    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, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.