Research Assistant – Microbial Strain Engineering for Precision Fermentation (FaBA) Full-time

Microbial Strain Engineering Specialist

Based in the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), this full-time, 100% FTE fixed-term position is for 20 months. The base salary will be in the range $95,361.61 – $102,302.91 + 17% superannuation (HEW Level 6). Based at our St Lucia Campus.

In this role, you will provide specialist research and technical subject matter expertise in support of microbial strain engineering at all stages of the research life-cycle. You will support a cutting-edge program in microbial strain engineering for precision fermentation of alternative dairy ingredients. You will work with postdoctoral researchers to conduct laboratory experiments, implement automation workflows, and manage experimental data within an industry-partnered project accelerating sustainable, animal-free dairy solutions. The position offers scope to expand technical skills in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment and deliver research with real-world impact.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Undertake advanced elements of research, in accordance with scientific/research discipline or methodology
• Apply specialist technical skills or knowledge to research activities
• Under broad direction, set up, monitor and demonstrate standard experiments and equipment use
• Maintain accurate records of experiments or technical activities and results/outcomes
• Adjust equipment to general specifications
• Undertake advanced elements of research in microbial strain engineering and precision fermentation.
• Apply specialist technical skills and knowledge in molecular cloning, strain construction, high-throughput screening, and strain characterisation to support research objectives.
• Under broad direction, set up, operate, and demonstrate standard laboratory experiments and automation equipment, ensuring reproducibility and adherence to protocols.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, procedures, and results, ensuring data quality, traceability, and compliance with best practices.
• Adjust and calibrate laboratory equipment according to general specifications and experimental requirements.
• Ensure a high standard of research housekeeping, waste disposal, sample storage and chemical/specimen/sample inventory management
• Assist with developing a proactive safety culture and implementing continuous improvement
• Assist with the development of research and analytical protocols
• Perform standard maintenance of instruments/equipment to ensure optimal performance
• Maintain comprehensive preparation/set-up notes and instructions for self and others to use
• Record and document outcomes from experiments
• Other duties, as reasonable, directed by the supervisor

Completion of a Bachelor's degree with Honours or Master's degree in molecular biology, synthetic biology or biotechnology with subsequent experience in coordinating activities or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training. Demonstrated research-relevant knowledge and skills with expertise in a wide range of specialist and general research techniques, including molecular cloning, microbial strain construction, screening, and characterisation. Expertise in the application of laboratory automation platforms and high-throughput screening workflows. Advanced knowledge of microbial production systems, synthetic biology approaches, and precision fermentation for recombinant protein production. Significant experience working in a research or industrial biotechnology laboratory, preferably in the context of microbial bioproduction or metabolic engineering projects. Advanced technical capabilities in design–build–test–learn (DBTL) experimental cycles, assay development, and data management. Detailed knowledge of legislative and operational requirements relevant to biological research, including biosafety, waste disposal, inventory management, labelling, and risk assessment procedures. Relevant experience in a technical or research support role in a biotechnology or synthetic biology research environment, or the ability to rapidly acquire and apply this knowledge in the workplace. Well-developed problem-solving skills, with an ability to forward plan, prioritise tasks to meet deadlines and work with a high level of adaptability, both independently and as part of a team. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with proven ability to produce clear, succinct documentation. The ability to liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders in a research environment.

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, which may include verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications and other role-specific requirements such as mandatory immunisations. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements. You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Birgitta Ebert at birgitta.ebert@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Resume
• A cover letter summarising how your background aligns with the 'About You' section

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent, particularly from Australia's First Nations Peoples. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don't meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close 15 March 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-57318). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for 23 and 24 March.