Research Fellow in Bacterial-algal Symbiosis

**Research Fellow in Bacterial-Algal Symbiosis**:
**Position Number**: 0065812
**Location**: Parkville
**Role type**: Full-time; Fixed-term until 23 December 2026
**Faculty**:Science
**Department/School**:Mathematics and Statistics
**Salary**: Level A - $83,468 - $113,262 p.a. plus 17% super (PhD entry level $105,518 p.a.)
- **Join a cross-disciplinary team investigating the relationship between bacteria and dinoflagellate algae, critical to coral reef health**:

- **Work across the Schools of Mathematics & Statistics and BioSciences, combining biophysical techniques with microbial symbiosis research**:

- **Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.**

**The University of Melbourne**
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**Your next career opportunity**
We are seeking a Research Fellow to join an exciting project investigating the symbiotic relationship between bacteria and dinoflagellate algae - key to the health of coral ecosystems. Based across the School of Mathematics and Statistics and the Microbial Symbiosis Laboratory in the School of BioSciences, this role focuses on uncovering the mechanisms of symbiotic formation and maintenance using innovative biophysical techniques.

You will conduct experimental and theoretical research using microfluidics, high-speed video microscopy, and mathematical modelling to study the interactions between bacteria and algal endosymbionts. Experience in culturing and maintaining microbial organisms is essential, as is a passion for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

**Your responsibilities will include**:

- You are expected to significantly contribute towards the research effort of the team and to develop your research expertise with an increasing degree of autonomy.
- Under the guidance and support of Senior Academic staff conduct internationally competitive research, resulting in publications in high impact journals.
- Contribute to and publish academic papers and other scholarly outputs to a high academic standard in accordance with the research expectations of the University of Melbourne.
- Actively participate in research seminars and conferences to disseminate research findings as opportunities arise.
- Contribute to the preparation, or where appropriate individual preparation of research proposal submissions to internal or external funding bodies as relevant.
- Contribute to teaching, training, scientific mentoring and supervision of students.

**You may be a great fit if**:
We are looking for an early career academic with a strong foundation in micrcobiology, bioengineering, applied mathematics or a related discipline, combined with experience in microbial culturing techniques and imaging/microscopy. With a growing publication track record and a clear ambition to build a research career, you are confident preparing high-quality research outputs and engaging with collaborators across academia and industry.

**You also have**:

- Completion (or near completion) of a PhD in applied mathematics, bioengineering, microbiology, or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience in microbial culturing techniques and imaging/microscopy.
- Demonstrated experience in at least one of the following topics: image processing, cell tracking, fluid dynamics, mathematical biology, agent-based modelling.
- A demonstrated aptitude for research, with a sound publication record in relevant areas, commensurate with experience and opportunities.
- Demonstrated ability to prepare research reports and manuscripts for publication.
- Demonstrated ability to develop, administer and see through to completion appropriately designed research projects with limited supervision.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

**What we offer you**
We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:

- Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
- Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance
- Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance
- Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page

**Your new team - School of Mathematics and Statistics**

**Be Yourself**
The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have the opportunity to thrive regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, d