Post-Doc Research Associate/Research Fellow – Ophthalmology in Sydney

Dynamic and unique opportunity to contribute to a research project with the Save Sight Institute. Full-time, 2-year fixed-term role, with a possible chance of extension. Base Salary $105,314 - $122,830 + 17% superannuation.

About the opportunity:

You will work within the Optic Nerve Research Team at the Save Sight Institute (SSI). The SSI is a Centre of The University of Sydney, within the Faculty of Medicine and Health. It was established in 1985 and has grown to be one of the top three ophthalmic research institutes in Australia, is internationally recognised as a centre of innovative research into ophthalmology and as a centre of excellence for clinical research, learning and teaching.

The Post-Doctoral Research Fellow will focus on a project related to glaucoma, aging and mitochondrial turnover, including lifestyle interventions to protect the optic nerve in rodent models.

For Level A Research Associate (Research Only):

• Work closely with the team leader, researchers, chief investigators and key stakeholders to achieve project aims.
• Work independently and as part of a team to undertake activities related to the conduct of quantitative research including reviews of the scientific literature, the preparation of study protocols and related documentation.
• Assist in all activities related to the conduct of the research, including the reviewing and updating of research protocols and related documents and coordinating data between various teams.
• Assist with undertaking administrative requirements of research project management.
• Assist in building and maintaining strategic relationships with internal and external collaborators, including clinicians and health-based staff.

For Level B Research Fellow (in addition to the above):

• Lead our translational research program to understand the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and turnover in glaucoma.
• Expand our experience in relevant animal models and techniques.
• Ultimately build an original research project (either independently or as part of a team) to explore neuronal injury responses and recovery.
• Contribute and coordinate the research and administration activities of the discipline.
• Develop research collaborations that will ultimately result in knowledge or technology transfer leading to commercialisation, improved policy or practice and/or enhancements to industry.
• Assist with future grant applications and supervision of PhD students.

About you:

For Level A Research Associate (Research Only):

• Completed or near completion of a PhD in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated experience developing and contributing to research evidence by producing original, high quality and independent research.
• Have a strong interest in working on optic nerve protection.
• Demonstrates previous experience in retinal primary cell culture.
• Demonstrated previous experience with mouse glaucoma models such as optic nerve crush or IOP elevation models.
• Demonstrates expertise in the molecular analysis of retinal and optic nerve tissue.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to liaise effectively with all levels of staff and stakeholders.
• Experience in the development of academic publications or report writing.
• High-level organisational and time management skills, strong attention to detail, and a proven ability to establish priorities and meet deadlines.

For Level B Research Fellow (in addition to the above):

• Have a PhD in an academic field relevant to the discipline.
• Demonstrates strong expertise in glaucoma animal models and relevant methods of analysis of retinal ganglion cells such as optic nerve crush, retrograde tracing, VEPs, ERGs.
• Demonstrates expertise in optic nerve drug delivery.
• Demonstrates strong expertise and experience in retinal primary cell culture.
• Have experience with neuroinflammatory retinal processes.
• Demonstrates a track record of impactful research and publications in their field.
• Is an excellent mentor for junior scientists, as evidenced by supervision, mentoring, and support.
• Demonstrates a strong track record of effectively working in multi-disciplinary teams, industry and professional institutions, health partners, and stakeholders.

Pre-employment checks:

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement:

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

How to apply:

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Roshik Prasad, Recruitment Operations by email to roshik.prasad@sydney.edu.au.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Applications Close: Wednesday 04 June 2025 11:59 PM.