Postdoctoral Fellow in Biomedical Sciences - Multiple roles

The University of Waikato; Hamilton; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Waikato is seeking two Postdoctoral Fellows to contribute to pioneering research in bacteriophages and protein design. These full-time roles involve engaging in cutting-edge projects aimed at developing phage therapies for infectious diseases. Successful candidates will have a PhD and a strong background in molecular biology, as well as hands-on laboratory skills in techniques like PCR and cloning.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field with a strong research output.
• Experience with molecular techniques and familiarity with bacteriophages.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to externally funded research on phage therapies.
• Engage in teaching and academic life within the School.
• Conduct research utilizing high-throughput genetic screens.

Skills

Molecular techniques

PCR

Cloning

Protein expression

High-throughput screening

NGS sequencing

Education

PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, or bioinformatics

Job description

• Two Postdoctoral positions based in Hamilton, New Zealand.
• Molecular microbiology, bacteriophages and protein design.
• Join an ambitious, well-funded research team.

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

We are seeking two highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellows to join our team to contribute to two externally funded research projects exploring bacteriophage-pathogen specificity to advance the development of phage therapies for infectious disease. Based in the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with real-world impact.

Project 1 (funded by a Marsden grant from the Royal Society Te Apārangi) focuses on understanding the genetic basis for phage-bacteria specificity, focusing on immune systems that bacteria use to protect themselves from phages infections. We will use high-throughput genetic screens to uncover how phages have evolved anti-immune proteins to evade or inactivate bacterial immunity and discover how bacterial immune systems have evolved to counteract phage evasion.

Project 2 (funded by an MBIE Smart Ideas grant) will use cutting-edge protein design techniques to engineer phages as precision antibiotics. We will combine protein design with high-throughput functional screens and structural validation of designs (with international collaborators specialising in Cryo-EM).

The Postdoctoral Fellows will actively engage in our team's research activities and may also contribute to teaching and academic life within the School, making this an exciting next step for someone passionate about microbiology, infectious disease, and translational science.

We have two exciting full-time positions available, each offering a salary in the range of $90,125 - $107,452 per year (pro-rata), depending on the skills, knowledge, and experience the successful candidates bring to their roles; appointments at the upper end of the range will require extensive relevant experience and skillset. These are fixed-term roles for two years, with an ideal start date prior to August 2025 (depending on availability). Both positions will be based at our Hillcrest Campus and involve a 37.5-hour work week. Subject to funding, future opportunities within the team may be possible beyond the initial two years.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Simon Jackson, Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences, [e-mail]. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Please read the Position Descriptions and ensure you clearly address your interest and suitability for the roles in your application.

Applications may be considered on a rolling basis, so please apply early to avoid missing out.

Please see also the advertised Research Assistant role for a team-wide research support position.

Ko wai koe? - Who are you?

We're looking for a driven and collaborative researcher with a PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field. You'll bring a strong track record of research outputs and hands-on experience with molecular techniques such as PCR, cloning, plasmid work, and protein expression. Familiarity with bacteriophages and bacterial defence systems is highly valued, as is experience in high-throughput screening and NGS sequencing. You'll be an excellent communicator, highly organised, self-motivated, and eager to contribute to a research environment that values teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in cutting-edge microbiological research, we'd love to hear from you.

Don't meet every single requirement?

Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. So, if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.

Ko wai mātou? - Who are we?

The Division of Health undertakes research and teaching to achieve better, fairer health outcomes in Aotearoa. Currently, it offers programmes in Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Healthy Active Living, Human Performance Science, Midwifery, Nursing, Pharmacy and Sport Development and Coaching. Future plans include establishing graduate-entry programmes in Medicine, Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy. The Division of Health is committed to addressing health inequities and preventable diseases, with a particular focus on improving Māori and Pacific health outcomes.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? - Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you'll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata - For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Monday 7th July 2025

Requisition number: 1002635