"Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Synthetic Biology"

IDEA bio is a fermentation biofoundry focused on the development of bioprocesses and robust microbial cell factories. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Synthetic Biology to contribute to the development of engineered microbial systems using cutting-edge synthetic biology tools and metabolic engineering strategies, with a strong focus on the engineering of yeast (Yarrowia lipolytica, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia pastoris). You will be an experienced and highly motivated systems/synthetic biologist, looking to apply your expertise and advance the development of microbial cell factories in alignment with IDEA bio Framework Projects. In this role, you will be primarily laboratory-based and will work closely with our systems biology and fermentation team to develop a novel microbial cell factory and implement strategies for the engineering of metabolic pathways in yeast, particularly Y. lipolytica.

Key responsibilities will include:

Research:

• Design and implement strategies to engineer metabolic pathways in microbial hosts such as Yarrowia lipolytica, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Pichia pastoris.
• Develop and apply controls to validate engineered pathways for accuracy, stability, and performance.
• In collaboration with the Automation Specialist, develop and optimise automated protocols for strain engineering in yeast.
• Conduct microbial cultivation using established fermentation methods and contribute to the development of new fermentation strategies as needed.
• Coordinate and execute sample preparation workflows for downstream proteomics and metabolomics analyses.
• Generate high-quality experimental data and contribute to data interpretation and documentation.
• Assist in the design, development, and optimisation of research methodologies, protocols, and quality assurance standards.
• Prepare reports, present findings, and contribute to publications, including co-authoring scientific manuscripts and technical reports.
• Participate in the preparation of competitive research funding applications.
• Ensure robust implementation of standards and quality controls for reproducibility and reliability of outputs.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments to maintain optimal performance.

Supervision and Researcher Development:

• Provide training and technical support to students and research staff, including hands-on guidance in strain engineering and fermentation processes.
• Support the professional development of junior scientists, engineers, and technicians by sharing knowledge and best practices.
• Undertake supervisory responsibilities in line with UQ’s expectations for postdoctoral supervisors.
• Assist in fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment that supports skills development and mentoring.
• Actively contribute to the development of junior team members’ research capabilities and confidence.

Citizenship and Service:

• Assist in maintaining smooth daily operations of the research centre, including support for lab infrastructure and shared booking systems.
• Provide expert advice on experimental methods, equipment selection, risk assessments, quality assurance procedures, and chemical and biological waste management.
• Champion a proactive safety culture, assist with safety inductions, maintain training and equipment registers, and support compliance with UQ’s health and safety policies.
• Collaborate with colleagues to develop and implement continuous improvement strategies for lab safety and efficiency.
• Resolve conflicts and grievances in accordance with university policies and contribute to a respectful and supportive workplace.
• Perform other duties as reasonably directed by the IDEA Bio management team or research supervisor.
• Contribute to broader research centre activities, such as outreach, reporting, and engagement with industry or academic collaborators, where applicable.

This is a research-focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

About You

• Qualifications and Field of Expertise: Completion of a PhD in Systems and Synthetic Biology, Molecular Engineering, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Technical and Research Experience: Demonstrated experience in yeast engineering, with a strong preference for experience in Yarrowia lipolytica; Proficiency in synthetic biology tools and techniques such as PCR, modular cloning, Golden Gate assembly, USER assembly, and CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing; Sound understanding and practical experience applying the Design-Build-Test-Learn (DBTL) cycle, including the use of high-throughput methodologies and instrumentation to construct microbial cell factories; Practical experience in microbial cultivation, including yeast and bacterial systems, with demonstrated knowledge in media optimisation, strain screening, and growth kinetics.
• Analytical and Systems Biology Knowledge: A strong grasp of systems biology principles, including omics data interpretation and strain performance analysis.
• Automation and Computational Skills: Experience in implementing automation protocols for microbial strain engineering; Working knowledge of statistical analysis using programming languages such as Python or R.
• Communication and Organisational Skills: Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple tasks efficiently; Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams; Proven ability to produce clear and concise documentation, including experimental records and technical reports; Competence with Microsoft Office and a willingness to learn new digital tools (e.g., LabArchives, BioRender).