• Work closely with academia on research in Future Food Processing
• Full-time fixed term for 2 years with possibility of extension subject to funding
• Remuneration: $94,682 - $101,018 p.a., plus leave loading and up to 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation

About the opportunity 

The Centre for Excellence in Advanced Food Enginomics (CAFE) has been established at the University of Sydney in 2017. This centre aims to meet the food and health challenges of the 21st century creating and delivering nutritious and wholesome processed foods to improve human well-being. CAFE comprises a cross-disciplinary cluster of high profile and industry-focused researchers specialised in engineering, agriculture, business, science, molecular biology and medicine.

This centre will provide a unique opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment with experienced researchers and a broad range of biotechnology and food processing/manufacturing stakeholders. As such, you will be expected to be involved in a collaborative research across different disciplines.

About you

We are seeking to appoint a postdoctoral research associate with expertise in micro and molecular biology, in depth knowledge about gut microbiome,  research experience in the in vitro models of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) for the investigation of the interaction of nutrients, bioactives, pre- and probiotics with gut microbial communities as well as their physicochemical properties in the GIT. Suitably qualified scientists are invited to apply to lead targeted research in diet-microbiome-health interactions. The aims include identification of diet-driven microbial influence on health and development of predictive models for personalized functional foods.

You will be expected to:

• contribute effectively in all aspects of a broad-ranging, collaborative, fundamental and applied research program, aimed at addressing a range of interdisciplinary issues
• provide clear leadership and coordination across their particular field of research
• manage the day-to-day operations of several (up to 5) focused research projects; this will include honours and postgraduate student training and supervision
• coordinate the preparation and publication of high-quality conference and journal papers
• assist senior management in the preparation of competitive grant applications in line with the longer term aspirations of CAFE
• liaise closely with the other research themes in the centre;
• ensure that all aspects of the research program are conducted according to WHS regulations and principles.

To be successful in this position you will have:

• a PhD in molecular biology or microbiology (or a closely allied field) from a reputable institution
• a demonstrated experience in gut microbiota and development and/or application of in vitro gastrointestinal tract (GIT) to study the interaction of nutrients with gut microbial communities
• a demonstrated ability to independently design and budget a research plan
• demonstrated research skills together with a proven capacity for independently managing collaborative research projects
• experience in research training, including the supervision of honours students
• a strong record of achieving research outcomes (including conference and journal publications)
• a proven track record of working collaboratively across different research disciplines
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills with high level of competency in both written and spoken English.

Desirable criteria are:

• Expertise in nutrition, food chemistry or metabolite analysis
• demonstrated track record in supervision of postgraduate students
• a track record of success in obtaining competitive research funding.
• Experience in industry

The position is full-time fixed term for three years, with potential for extension subject to funding and is subject to the completion of a satisfactory probation period for new appointees. CAFE supports a flexible working environment; subject to visa restrictions, this opportunity is available as either a full-time or part-time position.

About us

Since our inception 160 years ago, the University of Sydney has led to improve the world around us. We believe in education for all and that effective leadership makes lives better. These same values are reflected in our approach to diversity and inclusion, and underpin our long-term strategy for growth. We’re Australia's first university and have an outstanding global reputation for academic and research excellence. Across our campuses, we employ over 7600 academic and non-academic staff who support over 60,000 students.

We are undergoing significant transformative change which brings opportunity for innovation, progressive thinking, breaking with convention, challenging the status quo, and improving the world around us.

How to apply

For more information on the position and University, please view the candidate information pack available from the job’s listing on the University of Sydney careers website.

All applications must be submitted via the University of Sydney careers website. Visit sydney.edu.au/recruitment and search by the reference number to apply.

Closing date: 11.30pm, Sunday 28 July 2019 (Sydney Time)

The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged.

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.