Postdoctoral Researchers in Plant Biology

• Looking for up to 4 high-calibre researchers with an interest in Plant Genetics and Genomics focusing on plant-pathogen interactions and disease resistance genes
• Multiple Level A and B positions available at full-time on a fixed term appointment for 3 to 5 years
• Base salary range: $103,202 – $128,404 p.a. plus 17% superannuation, depending on qualifications, skills and experience

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

About the team

The School of Biological Sciences is internationally recognised for its strong teaching programmes in the natural sciences and biology and has an enviable research track record. The School has broad expertise across marine biology, ecology, conservation biology, evolutionary biology, computational biology, plant and animal physiology, and genomics. The School also leads UWA’s program in Science Communication. Our research programmes involve a diverse array of taxa, from microbes through animals and plants.

The Batley lab studies genetics and genomics on a range of crop, plant and pathogen species, including canola, Brassica species, subterranean clover, soybean, wheat, banana and chickpea. Research projects include identification and functional characterisation of blackleg disease resistance genes in canola, investigating the role of structural variation in the Brassica genomes, specifically in relation to disease resistance and understanding the evolution of disease resistance genes. A new project, funded through a prestigious Australian Research Council Laureate aims to further this research through characterising evolution of resistance genes across the plant kingdom. In conjunction with this our lab continues to work on development of genomes and pan genomes.

About the opportunity

We have multiple new postdoctoral appointments in Plant genetics and genomics which will enhance your research career. You will be mentored in the laboratory of Professor Jacqueline Batley, and engage in collaborative research projects with key research teams and scientists. You will take part in supervising other research team members as well as be involved in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate level courses or units.

Specific projects you could be focused on include:

• Identification and characterisation of disease resistance genes
• Plant-pathogen interactions and evolution of disease resistance genes with a focus on crop plants
• Molecular and evolutionary biology to study disease resistance genes across different plant species
• Lab management and research in plant-pathogen interactions and evolution of disease resistance genes

To be considered for one of these positions, you must hold a completed or near completion (3 months or under for submission) a PhD in plant genomics, plant pathogen interactions, or plant molecular biology, or a relevant combination of experience and education/training. You will also have advanced skills in computing and programming languages such as R, plant genomics and data mining. You will possess the ability to work both independently and co-operatively with collaborators and as part of a team.

About your application

In preparing your application, you are asked to demonstrate clearly that you meet the selection criteria and indicate your particular focus and relevant skills in a two-page cover letter and a current curriculum vitae in support of your application.

Full details of the position's responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position descriptions: PD - Topic One - Research Associate 517284.pdf; PD - Topic Two - Research Fellow 517286.pdf; PD - Topic Three - Research Fellow 517366.pdf; PD - Topic Four - Research Fellow (Lab Operations) 517283.pdf

You may also submit an additional statement (1 page max) outlining any personal circumstances which should be considered when assessing your application. Applicants who have experienced periods of academic/professional interruption or other relevant events can include a description of achievements relative to opportunity in this statement.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Friday, 21 June 2024

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Professor Jacqueline Batley at [email protected]

This position is open to international applicants.

Application Details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We celebrate difference and believe diversity is fundamental to achieving our goals as a globally recognised Top 100 educational and research institution. We are committed to creating a safe work environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community and people living with disability.

• We have a globally competitive, gender neutral parental leave policy with 26 weeks paid leave after 12 months service and 36 weeks after 5 years.
• We have on-campus childcare facilities for children aged 6 weeks to kindy.
• We facilitate flexible working, with part-time and job-sharing arrangements considered.
• We have an ongoing partnership with Pride in Diversity and were recently awarded a Bronze Employer status for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
• We have Athena SWAN Bronze accreditation and actively work to improve gender equity.

Should you have any queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, contact the Talent team at [email protected] with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number and a member of the team will respond to your enquiry.