Research Fellow in Developmental Biology / Functional Genomics Full-time

Evolutionary-Developmental Biologist

Unravel molecular mysteries in bat wing development / Collaborate with renowned experts / Shape the future of evolutionary biology.

Apply now to lead transformative research in evolutionary-developmental biology and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries!

Investing in you – benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

Your next career opportunity

As an Evolutionary-Developmental Biologist, you will delve into the molecular and developmental intricacies of wing development in vertebrates, with an emphasis on mechanisms in bats. Guided by esteemed experts, you will lead collaborative research teams, manage projects, and contribute to high-impact publications, all while advancing your career in a supportive academic environment.

This position is based at the Parkville Campus and will report to the Lab Head, Professor Andrew Pask and Senior Research Associate Dr Axel Newton.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead Collaborative Research: Manage and work with teams on experimental design, data analysis, and project reporting.
• Develop and Deliver Courses: Engage students through innovative teaching, supervision, and mentorship.
• Enhance Research Outputs: Prepare research proposals, publish in high-impact journals, and present findings at conferences.
• Uphold Ethical Standards: Contribute to animal ethics applications and promote university values of diversity and integrity.

You may be a great fit if:

You are an experienced evolutionary-developmental biologist with a PhD in molecular biology, adept at computational and functional genomics, and eager to lead innovative research in a collaborative setting.

You may also:

• Have a proven track record in computational and developmental biology.
• Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment.
• Demonstrate strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Have experience in supervising and training research students.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you!

We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:

• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

Your new team – “Biosciences”

The University of Melbourne's School of BioSciences offers a dynamic research environment, with over 150 academic staff addressing critical biological challenges across diverse fields. From climate change and biosecurity to reproductive health and food production, the school leads more than 240 research projects in areas such as ecology, evolution, marine biology, genetics, and data science.

The TIGRR Lab

Our team has a diverse skill set in the fields of morphology, developmental biology, evolution, stem cell biology, genetics (incl. population), genomics, bioinformatics and conservation. Together, we possess the skills and technical know-how to accelerate the field of conservation genetics and de-extinction.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organization. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have the opportunity to thrive regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, age, being a parent or having caring responsibilities.

The University of Melbourne is committed to fostering a barrier-free and inclusive recruitment process. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates throughout the application and interview stages, including accessible document formats and alternative application methods. To discuss your specific requirements, please feel free to contact Bec Tucker – 0478 269 660 or send an email titled 'Reasonable Adjustments' to hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au. You can find more information for applicants requiring reasonable adjustments on our Careers website: https://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians, with unprecedented investment to attract, nurture and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. Tangible support through a range of programs and initiatives will ensure that you personally succeed and flourish while at the University of Melbourne.

For further information, including our 2023-2027 Indigenous strategy please visit – https://about.unimelb.edu.au/reconciliation/murmuk-djerring

If you are a member of an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community and would like any support, please feel free to contact our Indigenous Employment & Development team via email at oied-hr@unimelb.edu.au.

Working at the University – what you need to know

This role requires the successful candidate to maintain a Working with Children Check. The successful candidate can apply for the WWCC as part of the onboarding process. In the case the selected candidate doesn't have a valid Working with Children Check, they will be able to apply for the WWCC as part of the initial onboarding procedures.

Join Us and unlock your career potential!

Is this the perfect opportunity for you? Apply today! Including the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience

The responses against the Selection Criteria^ (found in the Position Description)

^For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/selection-criteria

If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process, please feel free to contact Anna Gradoboeve via email at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au, ensuring that you include the Position Number and the Job Title as the subject. Please do not share your application to this email address.

If you have any particular questions regarding the job please follow the details listed on the Position Description.

Applications close: 19 March 2026, 11:55 PM Melbourne Time Zone.

Position Description: JR-005126 Research Fellow in Developmental Biology_PD.pdf