Postdoctoral Research Associate in Fungal Process Systems Engineering and AI at University of Sydney

The University of Sydney is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Fungal Process Systems Engineering and AI. Hosted within the prestigious School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, this full-time role offers an exciting opportunity to pioneer sustainable bioprocesses for plastic degradation by integrating mechanistic modelling, artificial intelligence (AI), and automated laboratory workflows.

Job Overview Table

Summary

Working under the supervision of Professor Ali Abbas, the successful candidate will work at the interface of biotechnology and artificial intelligence to advance circular bioprocesses and plastics biodegradation. The role encompasses developing hybrid AI models, deploying self-driving laboratory workflows for autonomous experimentation, validating predictions via wet-lab experimentation, and coordinating operational activities within the research group.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will drive computational and experimental workflows and support operational management across the research group. Key duties include:

• Model Development: Construct and validate mechanistic and hybrid AI models covering fungal growth dynamics, polymer degradation mechanisms, and overall bioreactor performance.
• Machine Learning & Optimisation: Apply advanced machine learning techniques to guide experimental campaigns and optimise fungal bioprocess conditions.
• Experimental Validation: Design and execute laboratory experiments in collaboration with analytical and biological researchers to validate in silico predictions.
• Autonomous Workflows: Establish automated, self-driving laboratory systems linking experimental planning, execution, data collection, and continuous model updating.
• Research Dissemination: Author high-impact journal publications, generate reproducible codebases, document open datasets, and contribute to milestone project reporting.
• Group Coordination & Operations: Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, coordinate equipment readiness, monitor consumable stocks, ensure safe operating protocols, and lead scheduling.
• Mentorship & Support: Provide hands-on guidance, onboarding, and training for PhD, master’s, and undergraduate students working in computational and experimental settings.
• Academic Contribution: Engage in relevant teaching or educational activities aligned with Faculty of Engineering workload requirements.

Eligibility & Qualifications

Candidates must fulfill the following essential and desirable criteria:

Essential Criteria:

• A completed PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Computational Science, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Proven background in mechanistic modelling, dynamic simulation, or mathematical optimisation applied to bioprocess or chemical systems.
• Practical experience leveraging AI or machine learning algorithms to resolve scientific and engineering challenges, accompanied by strong programming capabilities (primarily Python or equivalent languages).
• Demonstrated track record of experimental design and empirical validation against computational models.
• A solid record of research publications and outputs commensurate with career stage.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating project milestones, research plans, or laboratory activities.

Desirable Criteria:

• Prior research experience in fungal or microbial biotechnology, polymer/plastics biodegradation, or environmental bio-engineering.
• Experience with automated laboratories, robotic workflows, or autonomous closed-loop experimentation.
• Experience in higher education teaching or university-level tutoring/mentoring.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their application online through the University of Sydney careers portal. Applications should include:

• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A detailed Cover Letter outlining your suitability, technical expertise, and motivation for the role.
• Any relevant supporting documentation (e.g., degree certificates, sample publications).

Internal University of Sydney applicants should apply via their Workday account (Dashboard > Career > USYD Find Jobs). For confidential enquiries regarding the role or application adjustments, please contact Rebecca Astar or Cherie Goodwin at recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au.

Application Deadline

Last Date for Apply: Friday, 13 November 2026 at 11:59 PM AEST.

Official Application Link

To view the full position details, download the position description, and submit your official application, visit:

Apply Online – Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of Sydney