Research Fellow in "Development of animal models of oral rare diseases and implementation of human studies for circadian oral and systemic disorders"

Role type: Full-time; Fixed-term for 12 months

Faculty: Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences

Department/ School: Melbourne Dental School

Salary: Level B - $124,656 - 148,023 p.a. plus 17% super

• Lead innovative research in rare orodental diseases / Integrate circadian biology with oral health / Develop precision diagnostics and treatments
• Apply now to drive cutting-edge research that will transform our understanding and treatment of rare orodental and craniofacial disorders
• Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

The University of Melbourne
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Your next career opportunity
As a Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne's Precision Health Lab, you’ll spearhead translational and clinical research on rare orodental disorders. You’ll integrate molecular, epigenetic, and circadian regulatory networks to develop novel biomarkers and precision-guided treatments. This role offers you the chance to work at the forefront of craniofacial biology, combining preclinical models with patient-focused studies to revolutionize the diagnosis and management of rare oral conditions.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Design Innovative Studies: Lead preclinical and clinical research in rare orodental and craniofacial diseases, focusing on circadian biology and oral phenotyping.
• Develop Biomarkers:Oversee biospecimen collection and analysis to discover and validate novel biomarkers in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid.
• Conduct Advanced Experiments:Utilize animal models, next-generation sequencing, advanced microscopy, and multi-omics approaches.
• Collaborate with Clinicians:Work closely with dental specialists to design and implement clinical protocols and longitudinal patient studies.
• Mentor Junior Researchers:Provide guidance and supervision to research staff and students while managing complex projects.

You may be a great fit if:

You are a passionate researcher with expertise in craniofacial biology and circadian rhythms, demonstrating a strong track record in both preclinical models and patient-focused clinical studies in oral health.

You may also:

• Hold a Ph.D. with demonstrated expertise in chronobiology, orodental tissue biology, and molecular mechanisms of disease pathogenesis.
• Have proven expertise in advanced circadian research techniques, including animal disease models and multi-omics approaches.
• Demonstrate experience with patient-based or clinical cohort studies focused on oral health outcomes or rare orodental disorders.
• Show excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaborating with diverse teams and writing manuscripts and grants.
• Have the ability to work autonomously and exercise judgment in solving complex research problems.
• Have experience in clinical cohort studies or patient-based research (desirable).
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to collaboration with other institutes and clinicians.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you!
We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:

• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page!

Your new team – Melbourne Dental School

www.dental.unimelb.edu.au

The Melbourne Dental School renowned for its excellence in dental and oral health education, clinical training, and translational research, with a strong tradition in dental research and an established international reputation in several research areas...

Be Yourself
The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation...

Visa sponsorship is available for this role.

A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required for all positions...

Join Us and unlock your career potential!
If this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
• The responses against the Selection Criteria (found in the Position Description)

Learn more about the application process, including tips and FAQs.

For recruitment queries, email Vanessa Phan at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au. Include the Position Number and Job Title in the subject line...

Applications close: 9 February 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.

Position Description: 3535839 PD_Research Fellow_Rare Disease.docx