• Fixed Term, full-time appointment (3-years, commencement in July 2025)
• Level A: $93,065 - $109,033 + 17% Superannuation
• Molecular Horizons Research Institute, University of Wollongong

The School of Science (SSCI) has a global research presence facilitated by its strengths in the both the Molecular Horizons Research Institute and Environmental Futures Centre. SSCI staff have global research connections providing multi-faceted opportunities for knowledge growth and development.

The Molecular Horizons Research Institute at the University of Wollongong is a world-class centre dedicated to unravelling the molecular mechanisms of life through cutting-edge imaging and interdisciplinary research. Our scientists work at the forefront of structural biology, biochemistry, and biophysics, using state-of-the-art technologies such as cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and single-molecule fluorescence imaging to address fundamental biological questions.

The Lewis and Spenkelink lab is part of the Molecular Horizons Research Institute at UOW and is dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair. Our research combines structural biology, biochemistry, and advanced imaging techniques to investigate the mitochondrial replisome’s architecture and function.

About the role

As an Associate Research Fellow you will drive forward projects focused on the biochemical and structural characterisation of mitochondrial DNA replication. Specifically, we use cryo-EM and single-molecule fluorescence imaging to visualize DNA replication machinery in action.

You will play a key part in generating and analysing molecular tools, requiring significant expertise in protein expression and purification, nucleic acid biochemistry, and biochemical assay development. Experience in single-molecule fluorescence microscopy or cryo-EM sample preparation is highly desirable. You will work closely with a collaborative and interdisciplinary team, contributing to pioneering research that will deepen our understanding of mitochondrial genome maintenance.

What you will be doing

• Express, purify, and characterise mitochondrial DNA replication proteins.
• Design and produce nucleic-acid substrates for biochemical and imaging experiments.
• Perform single-molecule fluorescence and cryo-EM experiments to visualize DNA replication mechanisms.
• Develop and optimise biochemical assays for studying protein-DNA interactions.
• Analyse and interpret data, contributing to high-impact publications.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers, both within the institute and with external partners.

What you will bring

• Extensive experience in protein expression, purification, and biochemical characterization, particularly of nucleic-acid processing enzymes.
• Knowledge in advanced imaging techniques, such as single-molecule fluorescence microscopy or cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM).
• Ability to independently design, execute, and analyse experiments, while also contributing to collaborative research efforts.
• A strong track record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals.

How to apply

Applicants are requested to submit a detailed CV and cover letter. The cover letter should include a summary of your skills and experience as they relate to each of the selection criteria located in the position description.

For further information about this position, please contact Dr Jacob Lewis, Senior Lecturer of Cell and Molecular Biology (ARC DECRA Fellow/NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow) via email [email protected] or Dr Lisanne Spenkelink, Senior Research Fellow (NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow) via email: [email protected]

Learn more about the research team and group leaders

• https://scholars.uow.edu.au/jacob-lewis
• https://scholars.uow.edu.au/lisanne-spenkelink

Position Description

Closing Date: Tuesday 29 April 2025, 11:59 PM

This position is not suitable for remote work in accordance with the UOW Remote Working Guidelines.

Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Only candidates with valid work rights in Australia are eligible to apply

The University of Wollongong is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion. We value and acknowledge the importance of our people’s diverse experiences, talents and cultures that they bring to work with them each day. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of attracting and retaining talent in our workforce. The creation of a diverse and inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential, enhance our success and achieving our vision of being in the Top 1% of universities globally.

About Us

The University of Wollongong was born with a mission to transform our region: to educate and empower the people of the Illawarra. Our commitment to a better future has shaped our direction and impact since our inception.

Over the years, we have grown to be a global diverse and inclusive civic university, working to solve global challenges and promoting harmony and social cohesion. We are proud to be a globally recognised and respected university, opening doors for our students, staff and partners.