Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Technology Sydney; Sydney; On-site; AUD 98,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

UTS invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. The role focuses on investigating interactions between pathogens and host cells using advanced imaging and sensing technologies, contributing to a NHMRC-funded program affiliated with the Institute of Biomedical Materials and Devices.

You will work under Professor Jiajia Zhou, conduct cutting-edge experiments such as super-resolution imaging and live-cell nanothermometry, publish

Qualifications

• PhD in a biosciences or related field.
• Experience handling pathogenic microorganisms under appropriate biosafety conditions.
• Experience in live-cell imaging and quantitative image analysis.
• Experience in microbiology, virology, immunology, or host-pathogen interaction studies.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, primary cells, or organoid models.
• Strong publication record and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments using advanced imaging and sensing technologies.
• Investigate nanoscale mechanisms of pathogen entry, replication, and host response.
• Participate in group meetings, seminars and conferences.
• Publish high-quality research findings.

Skills

Live-cell imaging

Pathogen handling

Publication track record

Collaborative work

Quantitative biology

Mammalian cell culture

Organoid models

Imaging software

Education

PhD in Microbiology/Immunology/Virology/Biomedical Sciences/ Biophysics

Tools

Super-resolution imaging

Single nanoparticle tracking

Live-cell nanothermometry

Job description

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 Devises at UTS.

You will work under the supervisor 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 focus 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 provide 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 include 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.

Accessibility

UTS Recruitment care about digital accessibility. If there is any content in our advertising that you have struggled with, please make us aware so that we can make our information accessible to all.

In addition, if you have a disability that requires adjustment to the recruitment process or an alternative application pathway please contact [e-mail] for assistance.

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.