FaBA Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Officer – Precision fermentation Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Fellows

This is an exciting opportunity for two postdoctoral research fellows (Level A or B) to contribute to a cutting-edge research program in microbial strain engineering for precision fermentation of alternative dairy ingredients.

You will work at the interface of synthetic biology and industrial biotechnology to develop and optimise microbial production platforms for dairy proteins. These positions are part of a collaborative project with an industry partner, aiming to accelerate the development and commercialisation of sustainable, animal-free dairy alternatives. These roles offer the opportunity to conduct research with real-world impact.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Develop an independent and/or collaborative research program in microbial strain engineering with a focus on precision fermentation for alternative dairy production; collaborate effectively with academic and industry partners to design and deliver results that advance both scientific understanding and commercial outcomes; translate research findings into practical applications, including contributing to the commercialisation of intellectual property; apply and refine best-practice research methodologies in strain design, metabolic pathway optimisation, and fermentation process development; produce high-quality research outputs, including publications in leading peer-reviewed journals, and contributions to patents or other commercialisation activities.
• Supervise students, recruit and manage employees, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts, and ensure correct remuneration and benefits.
• 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.