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Postdoctorate Research Fellow in Bacterial Genetics

Employer
MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY - SYDNEY AUSTRALIA
Location
Sydney, Australia
Closing date
17 Apr 2019

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Academic Discipline
Biological Sciences, Life sciences
Job Type
Academic Posts, Postdocs
Contract Type
Fixed Term
Hours
Full Time
  • Salary Package: (Level A Step 6), From $91,991 to $98,588 p.a., plus 17% employer superannuation and annual leave loading
  • Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term for 2 years, with possibility of extension
  • Macquarie University (North Ryde) location

The Role

An exciting role has become available in the Department of Molecular Sciences (MolSci) at Macquarie University, Sydney, in the laboratory of Dr Amy Cain. We are currently seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Fellow with molecular microbiology and genetics experience to contribute to an NHMRC-funded research project examining the effects of metal stress on the nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii during host infection. This project is part of an international collaboration with the University of Adelaide and the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research, Germany.

Macquarie is a young and dynamic university, focused on fostering collaboration between students, academics, industry and society, encouraging all to traverse the boundaries of their own perspective and effect change. In Macquarie's Faculty of Science and Engineering you'll join passionate researchers and educators blazing new trails in the spirit of discovery and exploration. MolSci is located on a beautiful, serene and green campus in northern Sydney. Click here to find out more about the Department of Molecular Sciences.

About the Project

Acinetobacter baumannii is a WHO priority pathogen that causes life-threatening hospital infections, is frequently multidrug resistant, and is increasingly responsible for a major disease burden globally. The ability of A. baumannii to colonise, survive and thrive within hospital environments has been well documented, but its behaviour during infection and its interaction with the host immune system remains poorly understood. An important factor to success during infection is its ability to maintain metal ion homeostasis in the face of host-defence stresses and varying environments, but how A. baumannii deals with transitioning between conditions inducing metal starvation and intoxication remains unknown.

In this project, we aim to comprehensively dissect the metal ion sensing and homeostatic mechanisms of A. baumannii in order to identify a weakness in the A. baumannii metalloregulatory network that can be exploited for novel treatment strategies. We will use a combination of post-genomic functional approaches, including transposon insertion sequencing, and laboratory-based molecular biology to achieve these goals.

Selection Criteria

To be considered for this position, applicants must address the selection criteria below, and attach your CV (including a list of two referees), a statement of research interests and achievements (1 pg max).

Essential

  • PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics or a related discipline
  • Strong background in microbiology and molecular biology techniques
  • A strong research track record evidenced by first-authored publications in high quality conference and journal publications
  • Experience working both as an independent researcher and in a team-based environment.
  • Excellent communication skills, with an ability to relate to and engage with other staff and students.

Desirable

  • Previous work with A. baumannii and/or the effects of metal ions on microorganisms and/or animal infection models
  • Experience with genomics, transcriptomics and/or bioinformatics
  • Experience supervising graduate students

Specific Role Enquiries: Dr Amy K. Cain on +61 29850 6277 or email amy.cain@mq.edu.au

General Enquiries: Anne Kumanan at anne.kumanan@mq.edu.au

Applications Close: Wednesday 17th April 2019 at 11:55 pm AEST

Macquarie University is committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. We value individual difference and recognise the strength of a vibrant, diverse and inclusive workforce where the backgrounds, perspectives and experiences of our staff are a driving force for collaboration, innovation and impact.

We work to ensure genuine equality of opportunity for people regardless of their gender, age, cultural background, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability and/or family status, and we encourage you to apply for a position at Macquarie University.

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