Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Neuroscience

The Queensland Brain Institute works to understand the development, organisation and function of the brain. We aim to understand the neural circuits in the brain, how their function results in behavioural outcomes, and how dysfunction of these circuits leads to disorders such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia. We aim to (1) Develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat disorders of neural function and (2) Use our understanding of brain function to improve learning in classrooms and in the workplace.

Established in 2003, QBI (www.qbi.uq.edu.au ) is housed on the St Lucia campus of UQ. It is home to more than 450 staff and students, including 41 group leaders.

Over the past decade QBI has become known as one of the world’s leading neuroscience research institutes. It played a key role in contributing to UQ attaining the highest possible score of 5 for neuroscience, in both the 2010, 2012, and 2015 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) reviews, one of only two universities in Australia to achieve this.

Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory

The lab (led by Dr Adam Walker) focuses on molecular, cellular and mouse model studies of the causes and potential treatments for motor neuron disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia. We are an enthusiastic, cooperative, dedicated and ambitious group working towards finding cures for disease. For more information please visit qbi.uq.edu.au/walkergroup and walkerneurolab.org.

The role

This position will involve conducting and analysing experiments to understand molecular mechanisms and identify potential treatments for motor neuron disease and frontotemporal dementia, with a focus on cellular stress responses, protein aggregation and novel pathogenic biochemical pathways. You will use techniques including biochemistry, primary cell culture, immunohistochemistry, advanced molecular biology and microscopy, lentiviruses and AAVs, analysis of human tissues, and transgenic mouse surgery, behavioural analysis and pre-clinical testing, to identify and understand new potential therapeutic targets.

The person

Applicants must have a PhD in a relevant area of research, such as neuroscience or cell biology. You will have demonstrated expertise in techniques involving biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or mouse models of neurological disease. A deep understanding of molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration with particular focus on MND and FTD will be an advantage. You will have a strong desire to make important scientific discoveries, to build new research directions and to apply your expertise and develop new skills to advance our research goals. Your record of high-profile first-author publications in neuroscience or cell biology together with your record of success in competitive funding schemes, and prizes and awards for research, will make you an ideal candidate for this position.

The University of Queensland values diversity and inclusion and actively encourages applications from those who bring diversity to the University. Please refer to the University’s Diversity and Inclusion webpage (https://staff.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/human-resources/diversity) for further information and points of contact if you require additional support.  

Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to the contact person listed in the job advertisement.

Remuneration

This is a full-time, fixed term appointment at Academic Research Level A. The remuneration package will be in the range $81,545 - $87,535 p.a., plus employer superannuation contributions of up to 17% (total package will be in the range $95,407 - $102,416 p.a.).

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Dr Adam Walker via email adam.walker@uq.edu.au

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below.