Research Fellow in Mathematical Modelling of Multicellular Interfaces Full-time

Research Fellow in Mathematical Modelling of Multicellular Interfaces

The Research Fellow in Mathematical Modelling of Multicellular Interfaces is expected to help develop models of interfaces within multicellular systems. These models will be part of a multicellular modelling and simulation framework being developed as part of the Australian Research Council's (ARC) Discovery Project “Bridging biological boundaries: modelling to explore the role of interfaces” awarded to Prof James Osborne (Melbourne), Prof Jennifer Flegg (Melbourne) and Dr Stuart Johnston (Melbourne) in collaboration with Dr Yohan Davit (CNRS, Toulouse) and Dr Sakia Feytag (WEHI, Melbourne).

The Discovery Project addresses the critical knowledge gap in how “interfaces” – the boundaries between distinct cell populations or between cells and their environment – drive the development and function of complex biological systems.

Within this project, the Research Fellow will drive the development of the unified multicellular mathematical framework within the open-source Chaste library. The appointee will be a member of the Melbourne Mathematical Biology Group at the School of Mathematics and Statistics, reporting to Prof James Osborne. Visits to Toulouse (France) will be an important part of the project.

What you will deliver:

• Develop and Implement Multicellular Models: Build and integrate high-fidelity interface models in the Chaste framework linking subcellular mechanisms (proliferation, differentiation) with multicellular mechanical and biochemical interactions.
• Apply Advanced Statistical Methods: Perform Bayesian parameter estimation and identifiability analyses to evaluate and select model formulations that capture interface dynamics.
• Translate Models into Case Studies and Collaborate: Support and adapt models for wound healing, biofilm development and tumour plasticity studies; liaise with interdisciplinary partners and undertake project visits to Toulouse.

Research Leadership and Dissemination: Lead technique- and application-focused publications, present findings at conferences, contribute to grant proposals, and co-supervise PhD/MSc students.

Contribute to Teaching, Service and Compliance: Provide student mentoring and training, participate in School activities and committees, and maintain required professional development and compliance records.

You may be a great fit if:

• You are close to completing, or have completed, a PhD in Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, or a related quantitative discipline.
• You have demonstrated experience in mathematical modelling and/or statistical analysis.
• You show a strong aptitude for research, supported by a sound publication record in relevant areas, commensurate with your experience and opportunities.
• You are able to prepare research reports and manuscripts suitable for academic publication.
• You have experience developing computational simulations.

What we offer you!

• Build future financial security with 17% superannuation
• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs, such as Academic Women in Leadership, and learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance and well-being, including leading parental leave, gender affirmation leave and cultural leave
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, and access to unique cultural and recreational benefits such as discounts for the Melbourne Theatre Company
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

Your new team – School of Mathematics and Statistics

The University of Melbourne's School of Mathematics and Statistics is a leading institution in Australia, renowned for its high-quality research and teaching programs. With a diverse staff of 162 members, including 90 continuing teaching and research staff, the School offers a wide range of subjects to undergraduate and postgraduate students. In 2023, it hosted 332 higher degree students across research and coursework programs.

The School boasts impressive research credentials, with 10 staff members inducted as Fellows of the Academy of Science. It has a strong track record in securing competitive research grants, including hosting an ARC Centre of Excellence, an ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre, and numerous ARC Fellows. The School provides robust infrastructure support for research and maintains strong international collaborative links, aligning with the University's goal of developing a strong global profile.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at oied-hr@unimelb.edu.au.

Application essentials:

• Visit “apply with us” to learn more about the process, including tips and FAQs.
• This role is eligible for visa sponsorship and we welcome international applicants. If successful, we will support you through this process.
• A Working with Children Check is required for all positions. If successful, we will guide you through the process and reimburse you.
• Please upload your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and experience as part of the application process.
• Please upload your responses to the Selection Criteria, found in the Position Description.

Want to know more?

• For queries related to this specific position, contact Prof James Osborne (please refer to the PD)
• For questions related to our recruitment process email Anna at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au
• For recruitment adjustments contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments')

Apply today, and join a community that's shaping the future.

Applications close: 17 April 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.