Postdoctoral Fellow

PRIMARY DETAILLead cutting-edge ARC-funded research on butterfly behaviour and visual ecology at Macquarie University- Salary package: Level A - Step 6 (PhD awarded rate) $109,272 p.a., plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading.- Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term until 17 December 2027- Location: Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Dharug land, North RydeTHE ROLEAn exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Researcher exists in the School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University. We are seeking a qualified candidate to join a team with an international reputation for producing high quality research outcomes in the area of animal behaviour.This project involves establishing and imaging butterfly courtship interactions within experimental enclosures with the ultimate aim of reconstructing the visual circumstances leading up to mate detection. The successful candidate will contribute to an Australian Research Council funded project seeking to determine how visual parameters are used to detect target stimuli under challenging visual conditions.Reporting to the project CI (A/Prof Darrell Kemp), the Postdoctoral Researcher will:Establish the experimental arena and associated infrastructure.Undertake fieldwork in tropical North Queensland.Perform and image behavioural presentations.Extract and analyse 3-dimensional object tracking data.Lead the preparation of high impact scientific publications.We look forward to hearing from applicants who have demonstrated excellence in their past research, possess the technical skills required to match the demands of this project. Candidates with experience working with butterfly behaviour in either field or laboratory settings are strongly preferred for this position.About UsThe Faculty of Science and Engineering is a young and dynamic faculty driven by the spirit of discovery. Here we nurture the next generation of science and technology innovators. From a handful of students on the University's first day, the Faculty now serves over 8,000 students across all our courses.The School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University was established on 1 January 2022 through the amalgamation of the Departments of Biological Sciences, Molecular Sciences, and Earth and Environmental Sciences. The School is the largest in the Faculty of Science and Engineering and is a vibrant community of educators, researchers and students working across a wide range of biological, biomolecular, biomedical, chemical, environmental and geoscience disciplines.Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation in 1964, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.How to ApplyTo be considered for this position, applicants must address the selection criteria below and attach a CV (including a list of two referees), and include a statement of research interests and achievements.Essential Selection CriteriaA PhD in animal ecology/behaviour or a related discipline.Experience working with butterflies in either field and/or laboratory environments.Ability to undertake and publish original experimental research, as evidenced by impactful and high-quality outputs.Ability to foster a nurturing environment for research students including the provision of research student supervision.Demonstrated capacity to work independently and as part of a team.Excellent oral and written communication skills.Ability for analytical thinking and independent problem solving.Desirable Selection CriteriaExperience with imaging insect interactions and the analysis thereof using tracker software.Note: This position is subject to the successful completion of an academic qualification check and may include a criminal history check.Role Enquiries: Associate Professor Darrell Kemp at Applications Close: Thursday 13 November 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (AEDT)*** Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.Why Work at MacquarieWe rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability.Our prime location is just a short walk from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre. Enjoy the benefits of working at a campus that offers:17% SuperannuationSubsidised onsite parking optionsFlexible working optionsTraining and professional developmentOnsite childcare facilitiesDiscounted health insurance (Medibank)Onsite vacation careEmployee Assistance ProgramSubsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic CentreOnsite GP, imaging & physio clinicsIf you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, , MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.Applications Close:13/11/2025 11:59 PM​A Place Where You BelongAt Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework. Flexible WorkAt Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.