"LIMS Nick Hoogenraad Fellow"

Job Description:

• Full time (Possible part-time)
• Fixed term – 3 years or equivalent part time period
• Campus Independent
• Be part of a passionate and innovative team

About the position

Based at La Trobe University, the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) is a world-class multidisciplinary biomedical research institute. Bringing together leading researchers from across the University, LIMS seeks equitable solutions to solve today’s global health and wellbeing challenges. From biology to engineering, genetics to physics, the Institute conducts impactful research through the creative integration of core scientific disciplines.

The LIMS Nick Hoogenraad Fellowship is named for a long-standing Head of Biochemistry at La Trobe, Emeritus Professor Nick Hoogenraad AO, who served in that role from 1993 until his retirement in 2014. Professor Hoogenraad’s research focused on mitochondrial biogenesis and on the role of molecular chaperones in protein targeting and folding in mammalian cells. His research led to the discovery of the mitochondrial stress response (mtUPR) and the role of HSP90 in the targeting and import of proteins into mitochondria of mammalian cells. In addition to winning many major awards for his research, Professor Hoogenraad was the visionary driving force behind the establishment of LIMS and the creation of the LIMS1 building on La Trobe’s Melbourne campus. He served as Inaugural LIMS Director until his retirement.

The LIMS Nick Hoogenraad Fellow will carry out internationally competitive, multidisciplinary, molecular research. The Fellow will receive salary and a contribution towards research support for three years full-time, or an equivalent part-time period. The Fellow will explore opportunities to collaborate with researchers across the university and externally, both nationally and internationally, and will seek funding to support their research both under the Fellowship and for continued employment at the conclusion of the Fellowship appointment.

A Level B research only academic is expected to carry out independent and/or team research within the relevant field and to carry out activities to develop their research expertise relevant to that field of research. The Fellowship is intended to act as a career launching pad for high-achieving scientists within 5 years of award of their PhD (considering ROPE) to establish their own laboratory and research directions in their chosen field.

Skills and Experience

To be considered for this position, you will have

• Completion of a PhD within the previous five years considering ROPE or equivalent qualifications and research experience, and evidence of the knowledge and implementation of good research practice.
• A record of peer-reviewed publications (research articles, reviews, book chapters), or professional or technical contributions which provide evidence of strong research potential.
• A record of communication of the work within the scientific communities as well as with the public.
• You will preferably be highly skilled in multidisciplinary molecular research in areas of strategic importance to LIMS. This includes but is not limited to technology areas such as biosensors, digital biology, synthetic biology, and space biology, as well as areas of health impact such as cancer, infection and immunity, and cardiovascular biology.
• A demonstrated track record in equity-centred research and public involvement, although not essential, will also be highly regarded.

Please refer to the Position Description for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.

Benefits:

• 17% employer contributed superannuation
• Flexible work arrangements
• Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses

How to apply

Closing date: By 11:55pm, Monday 20th October 2025

Position Enquiries: Patrick Humbert, Director of LIMS, Email: P.Humbert@latrobe.edu.au

Recruitment Enquiries: Lisa White, Talent Acquisition Consultant, Email: lisa.white@latrobe.edu.au

Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents:

• Cover letter
• An up to date resume;
• A separate document addressing each bullet point under the Essential Criteria ‘Skills and knowledge required for the position’, which is located in the position description.