Group Leader Epigenetics
- The University of Adelaide
- Australia, SA
- Jul 10, 2026
Job Description:
- Based in the College of Health, Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences (AHMS) Building
- Salary per annum: Level B ($117,100-$138,515), Level C ($142,789-$164,207) plus 17% Superannuation
- 1 Grant Funded Researcher position available (Level B or Level C)
- Full-time (1.0FTE), fixed term contract for 3 years.
At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.
We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.
Work that matters
We invite applications from outstanding early‑to mid‑career researchers (up to 10 years post‑PhD, inclusive of career disruptions) to join the Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics (ACE) as a Research Group Leader specialising in advanced epigenomic technologies and their development.
Our people
Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.
About the Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics (ACE)
ACE is a leading interdisciplinary research centre focused on understanding epigenetic and gene‑regulatory mechanisms in health and disease. The Centre fosters a collaborative, technology‑driven research culture and is embedded within the South Australian Health and Medical Research Precinct, with strong national and international partnerships spanning discovery, translational, and clinical research.
Role Overview
This role is designed for researchers establishing or consolidating independence who demonstrate excellence in epigenetic research, alongside a strong commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. The successful candidate will build a high‑quality, externally funded research program while contributing to ACE’s collective technical and scientific capability.
Why Join ACE and Adelaide University?
Adelaide University is a Group of Eight institution renowned for research excellence. ACE provides access to state‑of‑the‑art genomics, imaging, and computational infrastructure, a supportive mentoring environment for early independence, and strong links to clinical, industry, and translational partners.
This role offers an outstanding opportunity for an emerging research leader to build a globally competitive single‑cell and spatial epigenomics program, while contributing meaningfully to a collaborative and forward‑looking research centre.
Experience
Please address the following 5 selection criteria by uploading a separate document:
To be successful at Level B you will need:
Qualifications and Technical Expertise
- Hold a PhD (or equivalent, within 10 years of completion (career disruptions considered)) in a relevant discipline, with demonstrated expertise in specialised epigenetic and molecular methodologies, including strong capabilities in experimental design, data generation, and interpretation.
Emerging Research Excellence and Publications
- A developing track record of high‑quality publications as first author (relative to opportunity) including contributions to reputable field‑specific journals and high‑impact journals.
Technical Innovation and Capability Development
- Evidence of, or clear potential for, innovation in the development, optimisation, or application of advanced molecular or epigenetic techniques, with an interest in contributing to shared research capabilities.
Funding Potential and Research Independence
- Strong potential for securing competitive research funding, with an understanding of national funding schemes (e.g. NHMRC) and the ability to contribute to grant development.
Collaboration and Research Training
- Evidence of effective collaboration and contributions to multidisciplinary research, alongside experience or potential in supervising or mentoring students and early‑career researchers.
Or, to be successful at Level C you will need:
Qualifications and Advanced Technical Leadership
- A PhD (or equivalent, within 10 years of completion (career disruptions considered)) with extensive expertise in specialised epigenetic, single‑cell, and molecular methodologies. A demonstrated ability supervised researchers and conceptualise and lead projects.
Strong and Sustained Publication Record
- An established and sustained track record of high‑quality publications, as first and/or corresponding, in leading field‑specific journals and top-tier, non‑field‑specific journals, demonstrating national and/or international recognition.
Innovation and Technical Advancement
- A proven track record of leading the development, optimisation, or adaptation of advanced experimental or analytical techniques, with clear impact on research quality, reproducibility, and innovation within a research environment.
Competitive Funding Success and Leadership
- Demonstrated success in securing competitive peer‑reviewed funding as a lead or senior investigator (e.g. NHMRC or equivalent), with evidence of leadership in grant development and engagement in peer‑review processes.
Research Leadership, Collaboration, and Mentorship
- Demonstrated ability to conceptualised, lead and sustain collaborative research programs, mentor students and staff effectively, and contribute to a collegial, high‑performance research culture, including fostering partnerships nationally and internationally
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Launch your future with Adelaide University now.
Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:
- your current CV
- a cover letter that outlines your suitability for the role.
- a document addressing the above selection criteria (Level B or Level C)
Submit your application by 11:30pm Monday 10 August 2026
Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.
For further information about the Group Leader Epigenetics position, contact:
Professor Jose Polo
Director, Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics
College of Health
E: [email protected]
For queries related to the application process, contact (quoting reference number 492696):
Georgia Viola
Talent Acquisition Adviser
E: [email protected]
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