About QIMR Berghofer:

QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute focused on improving health by developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies, specifically in the areas of Cancer, Infection and Inflammation, Mental Health, and Population Health. Based in Herston, Brisbane and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and non-research staff.

About the Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory:

The Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory has identified genetic and environmental risk factors for a range of psychiatric conditions, including substance use disorders, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We have shown that: 1) genetic and environmental risk factors overlap across psychiatric disorders; 2) large phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity exists within psychiatric disorders. Our research aims to achieve a better understanding of the nature of psychiatric symptoms by modelling (longitudinal) relations. Ultimately, improved understanding of individual genetic and environmental risk factors (and their interactions) will translate to more effective treatment of psychiatric disorders.

For this specific role, we are seeking a candidate with a background in psychology, epidemiology, statistics, data science, or a related quantitative discipline, who is interested in developing and applying quantitative models to symptom level and diagnostic data from large-scale biobanks. No previous experience with genetic analyses will be required, although it will be considered as a strength.

The successful candidate will join this highly productive team as a (senior) postdoctoral researcher. You will have the opportunity to pursue your own research interests as well as contribute to the ongoing work of the team.

The Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory offers an inclusive, supportive, and positive work environment.

Role Purpose / Responsibilities:

Your role includes the development and application of quantitative modelling approaches, such as Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), network analyses, and/or latent growth curve analyses. Methods will be applied to large scaled datasets such as UK Biobank and All of Us, with longitudinal data collected through surveys, wearables, physical measurements, and electronic health records (EHRs) in hundreds of thousands of participants. The project will achieve a better understanding of how genetic and environmental risk factors, and their interactions, influence trajectories of psychiatric symptoms.

You will be encouraged to develop and pursue your own independent research interests and will be given the opportunity to (further) develop your leadership skills.

You will contribute to the supervision of Undergraduate and PhD students.

About you:

The successful applicant will possess a PhD in Psychology, Statistics/Biostatistics, Computer Science, Epidemiology, Genetic Epidemiology, or other relevant discipline with a strong quantitative research background.

• You will have experience with quantitative modelling of high-dimensional data (e.g., network analyses, structural equation modelling, or latent class/latent growth curve analysis)
• You will be able to work within a team, while also independently developing your own research interests and skills
• You will have excellent communication and organisational skills; and good attention to detail.
• You enjoy working in a diverse and inclusive environment.
• Preference will be given to applicants with a very good publication record relative to opportunity.

Remuneration: Salary range is $96,100 to $128,721 plus super and salary packaging. This is a full-time appointment for 1 year, with possible extension. The duration of the contract can be flexible for the right candidate. Salary will be determined on qualifications and experience.

For further information: please contact Professor Eske Derks (she/her) by email [email protected]

Closing Date: 26 August 2025

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process.

To submit an application: use the APPLY button. All applicants must supply the following documents: Resume and Cover letter addressing the selection criteria outlined in the Position Description.

What we offer:

• Salary Packaging
• State of the art facilities
• Stimulating work setting focussed on cutting edge medical research
• Supportive/collaborative team environment
• Parental Leave Provisions