Postdoctoral Research Fellow Queensland Brain Institute

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 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)/motor neuron disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia. We are an ambitious, enthusiastic, cooperative, and dedicated 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 ALS/MND and FTD, with a focus on cellular stress responses, protein aggregation and novel pathogenic biochemical pathways. You will use techniques including transgenic mouse surgery, behavioural analysis and pre-clinical testing, as well as biochemistry, primary neuronal cell culture, immunohistochemistry, advanced molecular biology and microscopy, lentiviruses and AAVs, and analysis of human samples, to identify and understand new potential therapeutic targets. You will work both independently and cooperatively, with access to a dedicated support network and superb neuroscience research facilities, to forge new research directions, make important discoveries, and publish high-profile findings.

The person

Applicants must have a PhD in a relevant area of neuroscience research. You will have demonstrated expertise in techniques involving mouse models of neurological disease, and in biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology. A deep understanding of molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration with particular focus on ALS/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 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.).

Position Description

504865_3042190_Postdoctoral Research Fellow.pdf

Enquiries

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

For information on completing the application process click here.