"Research Assistant (HEO5) or Research Associate (Level A) - Computational Biology/Pharmacology"

Position Details

• Fixed Term – 2 Years | Full-Time
• Higher Education Officer Level 5 | $82,657 - $91,222 p.a.
• Academic Level A | $88,842 - $107,666 p.a.
• Location: Bedford Park / Kaurna Country
• HEO5 Position Description
• Level A Position Description

The successful candidate will be appointed to either the HEO5 or Level A position. Please indicate on your application which position(s) you would like to be considered for.

College of Medicine and Public Health

At the College of Medicine and Public Health, we deliver clinical, population and laboratory-based research, integrated teaching programs and high-quality clinical services. Our footprint reaches out from our world class teaching hospital at the Flinders Medical Centre in South Australia to multiple rural clinical locations all the way to Darwin in the Northern Territory. Our research and teaching equip the next generation of leaders and innovators with the skill, commitment, and vision to protect vulnerable communities and truly advance health outcomes. It is at the heart of everything we do.

About the Research Assistant Role (HEO5)

As a Research Assistant within the College of Medicine and Public Health, you will contribute to an NHMRC-funded project exploring the genetic diversity and therapeutic potential of targeting trace amine receptor 1 (TAAR1) for psychiatric disorders. Working under the guidance of the Chief Investigator and alongside a collaborative research team, you will assist in the design, coordination, and implementation of innovative pharmacology research. This role offers the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge computational methodologies, contribute to high-quality publications, and foster partnerships across academia and industry.

• Assist in designing and implementing computational approaches integrating chemical, biological, and structural data.
• Collaborate with the research team to achieve project milestones and contribute to scholarly outputs, including journal publications.
• Support planning and execution of research activities, including literature reviews, data production, and participation in seminars and conferences.
• Contribute to coordination and engagement with industry partners to deliver collaborative project outcomes.

About You

You will bring a solid foundation in pharmacology or a related discipline, coupled with experience in advanced computational techniques. Your ability to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and contribute innovative ideas will be key to supporting the success of this research project. A proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to high-quality research outcomes will set you apart.

• A degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Demonstrated experience in molecular modelling, simulations, and applying AI/ML techniques to protein research.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and industry partners.
• Proven ability to critically review literature, manage research tasks, and deliver project milestones on time.

About the Research Associate Role (Level A)

This Research Associate position in Computational Biology/Pharmacology offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to an NH&MRC-funded project investigating the genetic diversity and therapeutic potential of targeting trace amine receptor 1 (TAAR1) for psychiatric disorders. Working under the guidance of the Chief Investigator, you will play a key role in designing and implementing computational methodologies, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, and driving innovative research outcomes. The role also involves contributing to publications, engaging with industry partners, and supporting postgraduate students.

• Assist in the design and implementation of computational approaches integrating chemical, biological, and structural data.
• Collaborate with the research team to deliver project milestones and contribute to high-quality publications.
• Support coordination of project tasks, including engagement with industry partners and supervision of postgraduate students.
• Establish and maintain research collaborations at institutional, national, and international levels to enhance outputs and impact.

About You

You are an emerging researcher with a passion for computational biology and pharmacology, ready to contribute to innovative projects in psychiatric disorder research. You bring strong technical expertise, collaborative skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes.

• A PhD (or near completion) in Computational Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related field.
• Experience in molecular modelling, simulations, AI, and machine learning applied to proteins.
• A track record of research outputs, including publications and presentations at national or international level.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and industry partners.

Life at Flinders

We're transforming and investing in people and facilities to create contemporary, stimulating, and satisfying learning and work environments that reflect our core values of excellence, innovation, courage, and integrity. Flinders is refocusing its strategic priorities with the aim of elevating its performance to be a top ten Australian university, and amongst the top 1% in the world.

Reaching beyond the limits of buildings, borders, and backgrounds, ours is an inclusive culture that believes absolutely in equality and opportunity for all. We don't just accommodate differences; we embrace and celebrate them. So, why work at Flinders?

• 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options
• Flexible working arrangements
• Wide range of professional development activities and services
• We embrace diversity and promote equity and inclusion for all students and staff
• Vibrant campus life and amenities including on campus health care services, gym and childcare centre (Bedford Park, South Australia).

How to Apply and Information

• To apply online, please visit the Jobs@Flinders website via the job portal.
• You are required to submit a CV, along with a Suitability Statement as a separate document. This should be no more than 3 pages, and address the Key Position Capabilities of the HEO5 Position Description or Level A position description
• For more information regarding this position, please contact Dr Pramod Nair

Applications to be submitted before 10.00pm: 20 Jan 2026