Postdoctoral Research Associate in Broadway

Our vision is to be a leading public university of technology recognised for our global impact. We are a dynamic and innovative university, ranked by the Times Higher Education as Australia's top young university, and located centrally in one of the world's most liveable cities. With a culturally diverse campus life and extensive international exchange and research programs, UTS prepares graduates for the workplaces of today and tomorrow.

About the Role

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences focuses on the delivery of research and practices that inform higher education to produce future scientists in health technology, forensic science, energy, defence and space. We are seeking to engage a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a period of up to 15-months to join a research program funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, that is affiliated with The Institute of Biomedical Materials and Devices at UTS. You will work under the supervision of Professor Jiajia Zhou, and your main focus will be investigating the complex interactions between pathogens (including viruses and bacteria) and host cells using advanced imaging and sensing technologies. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research focused on understanding pathogen entry, the thermodynamics of antibiotic treatment, bacterial persistence, host immune responses, and the mechanisms underlying pathogenesis and treatment efficacy at the single-cell level and nanoscale.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Designing and conducting experiments that utilize state-of-the-art techniques such as super-resolution imaging, single nanoparticle tracking, and live-cell nanothermometry.
• Undertaking high-quality science research and providing solutions to experimental problems and specific application needs, focusing on either the nanoscale mechanisms of viral entry, replication, and host response, or the physiology and persistence of bacteria during host-pathogen interactions.
• Participating in and presenting at group meetings, research seminars and conferences.
• Producing high-quality research publications.

About You

To be successful in the role, you will need to demonstrate in your application:

• PhD in Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Experience handling pathogenic microorganisms under appropriate biosafety conditions (e.g., PC2/PC3), where applicable.
• Experience in live-cell imaging and quantitative image analysis.
• Experience in microbiology, virology, immunology, or host-pathogen interaction studies.
• Experience working with mammalian cell culture, primary cells, or organoid models.
• Familiarity with quantitative and physical approaches to biology.
• Strong publication record and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Refer to the attached Position Statement for a full listing of the selection criteria and role responsibilities.

Remuneration and Benefits

Base Salary Range: $97,955 - $119,303 (Academic Level A). This role attracts 17% superannuation in addition to the base salary. UTS staff also benefit from a wide range of Employee Benefits including flexible work practices, generous parental leave and salary packaging opportunities. This position is full time and appointment will be made on a fixed-term basis for a period of up to 15-months. The successful candidate will be expected to work onsite at the UTS Broadway Sydney campus. Applicants must have current and valid work rights in Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

UTS prioritises safety, respect, and inclusion for every member of our community. In support of this, and in line with our statutory obligations under the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2026, all prospective employees must declare any past investigations relating to gender-based violence. Employment at UTS is contingent upon completion of this declaration, and, where necessary, assessment of any identified risk.

Closing Date: Sunday 1st November 2026 at 11.59pm (AEST)

Accessibility

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UTS is recognised widely as supporting inclusivity and diversity through our Wingara Indigenous Employment Strategy, Social Impact Framework and UTS Access and Inclusion Plan. Cited as a WGEA Employer of Choice since the inception of the award, we were among the first Australian institutions to receive the Athena SWAN Bronze Accreditation for our commitment to action addressing gender equity in the STEMM disciplines. We welcome applications from women, Indigenous Australians, people with disability, those who identify as LGBTIQ and applicants from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.