Research Fellow in Molecular Microbiology – University of Melbourne, Australia

Summary

The University of Melbourne is seeking a Research Fellow in Molecular Microbiology to join the Huston Lab within the School of BioSciences. The position focuses on translational molecular microbiology and next-generation infectious disease diagnostics, with particular emphasis on sexually transmitted infections. The successful candidate will develop and validate molecular diagnostic assays, apply genomics and bioinformatics approaches, publish research, and collaborate with clinical, public health, and industry partners.

Summary Table

Designation

Research Fellow in Molecular Microbiology

Research Area

• Molecular Microbiology
• Infectious Disease Diagnostics
• Translational Microbiology
• Sexually Transmitted Infections
• Molecular Diagnostic Assays
• Microbial Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Pathogen Detection and Characterisation
• Molecular Biology
• Biomedical Science

Location

School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science
University of Melbourne
Parkville, Victoria, Australia

Eligibility / Qualification

Applicants should:

• Hold a PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Have strong expertise in molecular microbiology techniques, including:
  • PCR
  • Sequencing
  • Microbial culture
  • Molecular cloning
• Demonstrate experience in developing, optimising, or validating molecular diagnostic assays for infectious diseases or related biomedical applications.
• Have a strong publication record and demonstrated ability to communicate research through manuscripts, reports, and conference presentations.
• Demonstrate effective project-management skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Have, or be able to develop, expertise in genomics, bioinformatics, or advanced molecular data analysis relevant to pathogen detection and characterisation.
• Hold current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Job Description

The Research Fellow will conduct innovative research in molecular microbiology and infectious disease diagnostics, with increasing research independence.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct molecular microbiology research, particularly in the area of infectious diseases and sexually transmitted infections.
• Design, develop, optimise, and validate novel molecular diagnostic assays.
• Integrate genomics and bioinformatics approaches into diagnostic and pathogen-characterisation research where appropriate.
• Translate microbial research findings into practical clinical and diagnostic applications.
• Publish high-quality research papers and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to competitive grant applications and research funding activities.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Support junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative research environment.
• Establish collaborations with clinical, public health, and industry partners.
• Develop professional research networks and contribute to impactful translational research.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit their application through the University of Melbourne’s online recruitment portal.

The application should include:

1. Updated CV/Resume
2. Cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience.
3. Responses to the Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description.

Applicants should also ensure they meet the Australian work-right requirements and other recruitment requirements.

Apply here: University of Melbourne – Research Fellow in Molecular Microbiology Application

For position-specific queries, contact Willa Huston at willa.huston@unimelb.edu.au.

For recruitment-process questions, contact Oliver Bukasa at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au.

Last Date for Apply

14 October 2026 at 11:55 PM (Melbourne time)

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