"Research Associate in Synthetic Biology of Phages"

Position Details

• Fixed Term for five years | Full Time
• Academic Level A | $88,842 - $107,666 pa plus 17% Super
• Location: Bedford Park / Kaurna Country / Australia
• View Position Description

About the Position

The Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration (FAME) is seeking a Research Associate in Synthetic Biology of Phages with expertise in bacterial genetics and molecular biology. This position will contribute to pioneering work in developing designer bacteriophages from metagenomic sequences, with the goal of combating antimicrobial resistance and advancing microbiome research.

The Research Associate will:

• Apply advanced molecular biology techniques (e.g., Gibson assembly, Golden Gate cloning, CRISPR-Cas) to engineer and manipulate bacteriophages.
• Collaborate with Chief Investigator, students, and research partners to design and deliver high-impact research outcomes.
• Contribute to publications, grant applications, and the development of new research collaborations at national and international levels.

About You

You are a motivated and innovative early career or emerging researcher with a background in microbial genetics, synthetic biology, or molecular microbiology. With strong technical and analytical expertise, you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of phage therapy and microbiome science.

As the successful candidate, you will demonstrate:

• Completion of, or significant progress towards, a PhD in Microbial Genetics, Synthetic Biology, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in molecular cloning and genome editing tools, with desirable experience in phage biology.
• An emerging track record of research outputs.

About the Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration (FAME)

The Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration (FAME) is an exciting new research group at Flinders University, bringing together world-leading experts to push the boundaries of microbiome and metagenomics research. FAME works across disciplines to explore how microbial communities shape our world, offering hands-on experience with cutting-edge techniques in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and data analysis—an ideal environment for early-career researchers eager to make an impact.

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?

• Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide.
• Ninety per cent of Flinders research has been ranked at ‘world standard or above’ by Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
• 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options
• Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to wellbeing through our Thriving@Flinders initiative
• Wide range of professional development activities, funds and services, such as Flinders University’s Researcher Development and Leadership Programs.
• 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).

Prescribed Conditions for Employment

A valid National Police Certificate which is satisfactory to the University will also be required before the successful applicant can commence in this position.

How to Apply and Information

As well as a CV, you are required to submit a Suitability Statement of no more than 3 pages, addressing the Key Position Capabilities of the position description.

For more information regarding this position, we strongly encourage you to contact Professor Robert Edwards.

Applications to be submitted before 10:00 pm (ACST) on Friday, 26 September 2025.

Please note, late applications and applications sent via agencies will not be accepted.