• School of Mathematics and Physics
• Full-time, fixed-term position for up to 3 years
• Base salary will be in the range of $80,448.78 - $107,104.10 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)
• Based at our St Lucia location

About This Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Optical Micromanipulation Lab at The University of Queensland, working under the leadership of Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop. The successful candidate will contribute to an innovative project exploring the physics and applications of optical micromanipulation and optical tweezers, with a specific focus on complex biological systems.

The project aims to apply highly controlled optical trapping techniques to investigate cell-fluid interactions during macropinocytosis ("cell drinking"). This includes using structured light and angular momentum transfer to manipulate nano- and micron-sized particles in and around cells. By developing new methods to generate quantitative measurements of biophysical properties within cellular environments, the project addresses a major gap in current biological and biophysical research. Optical tweezers, with their non-contact and high-resolution capabilities, offer a promising approach to probing cellular mechanobiology and viscoelastic properties of fluids with sub-cellular precision.

The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will take the lead in maintaining and advancing the lab's Rotating Tweezers apparatus, designing experimental strategies, and carrying out high-precision measurements. The role also includes contributing to student supervision and broader research activities that support the development of a nationally recognised research profile in the field of optical micromanipulation.

Key responsibilities will include:

Research

• Conduct research and develop a research program in experimental Rotating Optical Tweezers for studies of complex biological systems.
• Innovate and pursue the aims of the Discovery Project on this subject, including conducting mechanobiological quantitative measurements in order to elucidate behaviour between microscopic cells and their environment by determining forces, positions and torques acting within these systems. In particular the Research Fellow will investigate the process of micropinocytosis, the drinking cells, and study mechanics and forces on cellular level during this process.
• Produce quality research outputs consistent with discipline norms by publishing or exhibiting in national research journals, other appropriate refereed publications and conference publications, with a lead role in some outputs.
• Participate in applications (usually in conjunction with more experienced researchers) for competitive research funding to support projects and activities, including early-career fellowship applications.
• Review and draw upon best practice research methodologies.
• Present research at department and group meetings and aim to present at national and international conferences.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ's Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

About You

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in the discipline area.
• An emerging profile in research in the discipline area.
• Experimental skills relevant to the laboratory projects with a strong record of achievement and evident expertise in the research area
• Evidence of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences.
• Evidence of contributions towards successfully obtaining external research funding.
• Some experience in meaningful internal service roles and contributions towards external activities

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia and education check.

Option One: You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop via [email protected]. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Resume
• Cover letter addressing the 'About You' section

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact [email protected].

Other Information

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don't meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close 16 July 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-53418). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for late August.