Research Associate/fellow

Full-time, fixed term until 30 June 2027, with possible extension
- $97,711 - 135.408 (ALA - ALB) per annum, plus 17% superannuation
- Curtin Bentley based

**Job Reference: 948230**
***Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace**:
At Curtin University, we are passionate about fostering an inclusive, diverse and welcoming environment in which all people feel respected, valued and safe. Curtin is dedicated to promoting gender equity and inclusivity in all areas. We are proud of our achievements to date and recognise that there is that there is more to do to improve employment outcomes for women, particularly in STEMM disciplines.

As an Athena SWAN accredited institution, we celebrate diversity and actively work to advance the representation of women in STEMM areas and empower individuals so they can thrive in their careers through a range of supportive initiatives, including leadership training, mentorship for early career progression and promotion, networking opportunities, and other professional development resources.

Additionally, we offer staff a competitive remuneration and benefits package, including but not limited to:

- Up to 17% superannuation with *possible cash out options, plus a variety of salary packaging options.
- Parental leave (26 weeks for the primary caregiver), personal leave (14 days) and annual leave (20 days)
- Enjoy 12 Public Holidays each year (including Easter Tuesday), and 2 extra University Days over the Christmas/New Year Period (see EBA 51.1 and 51.9).
- Breastfeeding facilities and campus-based childcare (where priority of placement is given to Curtin staff and students)
- Flexible work arrangements including return to work provisions
- On-campus medical centre
- Academic Carer Support Scheme and other diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives detailed via the below link.

**About the Role**:
We're looking for a passionate Research Associate/Fellow to help tackle powdery mildew in wheat, a growing challenge for Australian farmers. This fungal disease is becoming harder to control, with some wheat varieties losing their resistance. Your work will focus on understanding the genetics behind this issue and identifying new ways to protect crops.

**Your responsibilities will include**:

- Investigate how the powdery mildew pathogen is evolving in Australia.
- Search for new genetic resistance in wheat varieties from around the world.
- Work with industry experts and farmers to develop practical solutions for crop protection.

**Who we are looking for**:
To be successful in the role, you will have a PhD in microbiology, genetics or a relevant field and a strong background in bioinformatics, plant science, or plant pathology. Additionally, you will thrive in this role if you meet the following

**Essential Criteria**:

- An established publication track record in microbiology, bioinformatic and/or plant science.
- Familiarity with key bioinformatics tools required for genome assembly, gene annotation and pan-genomics.
- Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain multidisciplinary collaborations with industry partners and other researchers.
- Demonstrated effective oral and written communication.

**Desirable**
- Experience in population genetics and genome-wide association analyses.
- Experience in basic nucleic acid handling techniques.
- Experience and interest in science outreach.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate a small research team in a dynamic laboratory setting.

**Role Requirements**:
**Your new Team - The Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM)**
The Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM) at Curtin University brings together university expertise in plant pathology, microbiology, molecular genetics, bioinformatics, data science, geographical information systems, farming systems, agribusiness, and actuarial science. CCDM has strong industry partners and focuses on research to overcome key challenges in crop production.

**About Curtin University**
We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live.

**What We Offer You**:
Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services a