Research Fellow

**Role Type**: 12-month full time contract
**Salary**: $134,082 - $143,121 per annum plus superannuation
Join a World-Leading Team in Infectious Diseases Research
The opportunity
As part of the internationally recognised Enteric Diseases Group in the Infection, Immunity and Global Health Theme, this role offers the chance to work at the forefront of infectious disease research with a strong focus on rotavirus and other enteric viruses.
This position plays a vital role in supporting and managing a broad portfolio of laboratory-based activities, including:
National rotavirus surveillance through the Australian Rotavirus Surveillance Network
WHO Collaborating Centre and Reference Laboratory activities
Clinical trial sample analysis for the RV3-BB rotavirus vaccine
Innovative research into vaccine barriers including the microbiome, virome, and host factors
**Your responsibilities include**:
Conduct and oversee ELISA, RT-PCR, viral cell culture, and sample analysis
Manage laboratory operations including procurement, safety, and quality standards
Maintain and analyse research databases (e.g. REDCap)
Lead or contribute to experiments, data analysis, reporting, and manuscript preparation
Provide training and mentorship to students and junior staff
**What we need from you**:
**We seek a highly motivated individual with**:
A degree or PhD in Microbiology, Virology, or related discipline
3+ years’ experience in infectious diseases, ideally postdoctoral
Expertise in RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR, ELISA, and cell culture
Experience with lab/project management, including clinical trial settings and compliance
Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Proven ability to work independently and as part of a dynamic team
Supervisory experience and a collaborative, team-focused mindset
Desirable Attributes
Experience in Next Generation Sequencing, virus stability assays
A track record of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
Background in handling human samples and working under high biosafety standards
What’s in it for you?
**Maximise Your Pay**: Benefit from salary packaging, including entertainment and novated leases
Work with a world-renowned research institute dedicated to improving child health globally
Contribute to international projects including WHO Collaborating Centre activities and regional surveillance networks
Engage in cutting-edge virology research, including rotavirus vaccine development and genomic surveillance
Take on a leadership role in laboratory and project management, with opportunities to mentor students and junior staff
Advance your academic profile through opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and contribute to grant writing
Access state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and support from a multidisciplinary team
Collaborate with national and international partners, including WHO and commercial vaccine developers
Who we are
Murdoch Children’s Research Institute envisions a transformative future for child health. Our institute is a hub of impactful scientific breakthroughs, particularly in early interventions, enhanced diagnosis, prevention, and potential cures. We thrive on collaborative, multidisciplinary problem-solving to address challenging queries in child health. Committed to inclusivity and respect, we foster a positive working environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences. As a proud member of the Australian Network on Disability and a dedicated supporter of Science Australia Gender Equity (SAGE), we uphold principles of equal opportunity and diverse representation.
We are committed to the safety of children and young people and takes a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse, exploitation and harm. Child safety is prioritised in our decision-making at all levels of the Institute.
Your resume
A cover letter addressing the selection criteria
Ensure these documents are combined into a single PDF file.
No recruitment agencies please.
Position Description
**Applications close**: 4 July 2025 AUS Eastern Daylight time
LI-DNI