Griffith University is a progressive, values-led university dedicated to learning, leadership, and innovation. This is your chance to help us achieve our vision to transform lives and add to human knowledge and understanding in a way that creates a future that benefits all.

Since opening in 1975, Griffith has grown from one campus and 451 students to become a comprehensive, multi-campus institution, with 50,000 students and more than 200,000 graduates.

We have recently established our laboratory at GRIDD (Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, https://www.griffith.edu.au/institute-drug-discovery) and are looking for motivated and enthusiastic Research Fellows (RF1 or RF2) to join our fast-growing team. Our group uses a combination of genetic, chemical genetics, imaging, cell biology, and screening/engineering to develop innovative zebrafish models of human diseases and to investigate the underlying pathogenic mechanisms. This role will also screen diverse chemical libraries and natural resources for new bioactive molecules (https://giacomottolab.com/).

Although we are currently focusing on neurological diseases with projects funded up to 2026 and are ideally looking at candidates fitting in that space (motor neuron diseases, neurodegeneration, and mental disorders), we are also welcoming new ideas. This position will be associated/exposed to collaborations with the pharma industry.

Importantly, the lab head and the Institute are dedicated to supporting the growth of the selected candidate by helping her/him securing their own funding in short term, via either research grants or fellowships.

What we can offer
This is a 2 year fixed-term (with possibility for extension) full-time positions based on NHMRC projects running up to 2025 with vision for long term support and promotion based on performance.

The full time base salary will be based upon experience as a Academic Research Fellow 1 will range from $78,437 - $91,879 per annum + 17% superannuation. The total FTE package will be in the range $91,771 - $107,498 per annum.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD or equivalent qualifications/work experience in a relevant field such as molecular and cellular biology, genetics or disease modelling using zebrafish as a model. In addition to this, it is essential that you can demonstrating the following:

• Extensive experience with the zebrafish model or equivalent.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology and cloning.
• Experience with microscopy.
• Very high level of organisation aptitude including a team-based and collaborative culture.
• Exceptional written and verbal skills.

In addition to the above, it is desired but not essential for the successful candidate to possess:

• Micromanipulations/injections of embryos or equivalent.
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 approach.
• Experience with drug screening and toxicology.
• Experience with behavioural phenotyping and automatic systems.
• Interest in developing assays and exploring the use of automatic High-Content Imaging Systems such as PerkinElmer Opera or Operetta systems.
• Experience with transcriptomics approach.
• Experience in Calcium imaging.

As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We support the professional and personal development of all our employees and invest in the skills of our people. We offer:

• Flexible working options and genuine work-life balance.
• Salary packaging options & corporate health discounts.
• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page.

Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).

How to Apply
Please submit your application online and ensure your application includes the following:

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role (please refer to the Qualifications above and the position description)
• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details
• Please include the details of three supporting referees

Visa sponsorship is possible for this appointment for candidates who do not hold valid Australian work rights.

Further Information

For further information specifically about this role, please contact Dr Jean Giacomotto on [email protected] (https://giacomottolab.com/).

For application and recruitment advice, please contact Jake Barwick, [email protected].

For application support, please contact People Services on +61 (0) 7 3735 4011.

Closing date: Sunday 19th March 2023 at 5:00pm AEST. All applications must be submitted online.