Research Fellow

**Research Fellow - Analytical (Microbiome/Metabolomics)**:
**Position Number**: 0028825
**Location**:Parkville
**Role type**:Full-time/ Fixed-Term for 2 years
**Faculty**:Faculty of Science
**Department/School**:Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute
**Salary**:Level A - $105,518 - $113,262 p.a. plus 17% super
- Undertake research on the human gut microbiome, with a particular focus on identifying bioactive metabolites with potential therapeutic value.
- Work with the next generation mass spectrometry platforms and data analytics to identify novel metabolites and contribute to the development of the Australian Human Gut Metabolome database.
- The position provides for salary packaging, subsidised health and wellbeing services, fitness and cultural clubs, Myki discounts, and a 25% discount on graduate courses to our staff and their immediate families

**About the Role**
The gut microbiome contributes to good health, while adverse changes in the gut microbiome may underlie the rise in many chronic metabolic and immune diseases worldwide. The Australian Human Gut Metabolome Framework Project, located at the University of Melbourne Bio21 Institute, aims to identify metabolites in the human gut which have potential immunomodulatory and/or have therapeutic properties.

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with strong expertise in biological mass spectrometry and/or natural product chemistry to undertake a deep analysis of the metabolome of human gut samples and generate samples for high through-put bioactivity screening.

You will have access to exceptional mass spectrometry and NMR facilities at Bio21 Institute, and collaborate with world-leading metabolomics, immunology, and high content screening groups at the University of Melbourne and neighbouring research institutes.

Your responsibilities will include:

- Development of analytical workflows for undertaking the in-depth analysis of the human gut metabolome
- Generation of defined fractions for high through-put bioactivity screen against different immune cell types (macrophages and T cells)
- Contribute to strong team ethos and collaborative research culture
- Contribute to the development of a new comprehensive national/international database for the gut microbiome research community.

**Who We Are Looking For**
You are a highly motivated individual with a strong interest in fundamental academic research with strong translational potential. You will work collegially within a small but highly focussed team, as well as work collaboratively with several large teams with expertise in metabolomics, immunology and high through-put screening.

You will also have:

- A PhD degree or related experience in analytical chemistry and biochemical assays or related discipline.
- A research background in biological mass spectrometry (proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, analytical chemistry) or natural product characterization.
- Demonstrated ability of capacity to undertake independent research.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work with researchers of diverse backgrounds.

For further information regarding responsibilities and requirements, please refer to the attached PD.

**Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position**. This role requires current valid work rights for Australia.

**Your New Team**
The Metabolomics Australia facility (MA) at the University of Melbourne (UoM) has recently established a new analytical platform for identifying bioactive metabolites produced by the human gut microbiome. Metabolites produced by the gut microbiome have many beneficial effects on human physiology and immunity and have also been linked to the dramatic increase in chronic metabolic/immune diseases in Australia. The Australian Human Gut Metabolome Framework Project will utilize next-generation mass spectrometry and NMR to systematically identify metabolites produced by gut microbiota to be collated in a Web-based databank. This information will be used to inform high content screens for bioactive metabolites with potential therapeutic properties. This initiative provides an exciting opportunity to undertake research at the intersection of several disciplines with the aim of developing new therapies for a wide range of chronic and acute diseases.

**What We Offer You**
In addition, we offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a range of benefits, including generous leave provisions, salary packaging, health and well-being services and discounts on graduate courses. For more information, check out our benefits page

**About the University of Melbourne**
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