Academic Specialist in Protein Production

Role type: Full Time (1.0 FTE); Fixed Term for two years Faculty: Faculty of Science Department/ School: School of Chemistry Salary: Level of appointment is subject to qualification and experience Level B: $124,656 - $148,023 p.a. plus 17% super Level C: $152,695 - $176,065 p.a. plus 17% super Drive structural genomics research outcomes. Apply now to lead high-impact protein production workflows and help enable world-class structural genomics discoveries. Investing in you – 17% superannuation, benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities. The University of Melbourne We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website. Your next career opportunity You will lead high-throughput protein expression and purification workflows that underpin a major structural genomics program, collaborating with interdisciplinary partners and supporting the development of cutting-edge methods for structural and functional studies. You will also contribute to training scientists and advancing experimental capability within the team. This two-year fixed-term role provides access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and national research networks. What you will deliver: Lead design, optimisation and execution of recombinant protein expression and purification pipelines for diverse structural genomics targets. Establish robust high-throughput protein production and quality control workflows, improving yield, stability and reproducibility across target portfolios. Collaborate with internal and external partners to prioritise targets, troubleshoot challenges and deliver fit-for-purpose protein samples. Provide specialised training, supervision and mentoring in protein production techniques for students, researchers and technical staff. Contribute to laboratory management, reporting, grant applications and broader School activities, including outreach and engagement events. You may be a great fit if you: Hold a PhD in Biochemistry or a closely related discipline. Demonstrate a strong track record in recombinant protein expression, purification and characterisation, evidenced by high-quality publications. Develop and optimise protein production workflows, including high-throughput pipelines and rigorous quality control processes. Build productive collaborations with researchers, industry partners and facilities, both nationally and internationally. Secure or contribute to external research funding, and manage multiple projects to successful, timely outcomes. Supervise and train students or staff in laboratory settings, developing clear protocols, SOPs and training materials. For further information please refer to the attached PD. What we offer you! We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfilment, including: Build future financial security with 17% superannuation Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs, such as Academic Women in Leadership, and learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance and well-being, including leading parental leave, gender affirmation leave and cultural leave Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, and access to unique cultural and recreational benefits such as discounts for the Melbourne Theatre Company Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program For more information check out our benefits page! Your new team – The School of Chemistry The School of Chemistry at The University of Melbourne is one of the largest and oldest in Australia with a distinguished history in teaching and research. The first lectures in chemistry in The University of Melbourne were given in 1856, only three years after the University was founded. Since then, the school has grown and developed and there are presently over 2500 undergraduates enrolled in Chemistry subjects, with more than 150 BSc (Hons), MSc and PhD research students. It has an excellent international reputation in research and an outstanding record of achievement in attracting external research funding. Research in the School of Chemistry covers a wide spectrum from the design, synthesis, and properties of new materials through to protein structure and chemistry. Many research programs sit at interdisciplinary boundaries with physics, engineering, and biology. Science at Melbourne is a global leader across discovery and applied scientific research and education. Science begins with curiosity, and we are dedicated to understanding the universe from the level of sub-atomic particles to the solar system. We aim to be leaders who positively impact the community locally and globally, addressing major societal issues from climate change to disease. Our discoveries help build an understanding of the world around us. Be Yourself The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Discover more about Diversity and Inclusion at UniMelb. We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. Learn more about how we support an accessible recruitment process. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at oied-hr@unimelb.edu.au. Application essentials: Visit "apply with us" to learn more about the process, including tips and FAQs. You must have current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role. A Working with Children Check is required for all positions. If successful, we will guide you through the process and reimburse you. Please upload your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and experience as part of the application process. Please upload your responses to the Selection Criteria, found in the Position Description. Want to know more? For queries related to this specific position, contact Prof. Megan Maher at megan.maher@unimelb.edu.au For questions related to our recruitment process email Oliver Bukasa at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au For recruitment adjustments contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments'). Apply today, and join a community that's shaping the future. Applications close: 4 June 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone. Position Description: JR-013224 - Academic Specialist in Protein Production - PD.docx JR-013224 - Academic Specialist in Protein Production - PD.pdf Explore leadership opportunities to shape the future and growth of the University of Melbourne - Executive Opportunities Welcome to the University of Melbourne – where our vision for positive societal change creates impact. Join our community of world-class thinkers, where innovation thrives, and your ideas shape the future. Why choose us? You'll work among the best, pushing the boundaries of knowledge with passion. Whether you're driving groundbreaking research, inspiring the next generation through teaching, or providing essential professional services, we empower you to excel. At the University of Melbourne, your potential is our priority. Elevate your career, make a real difference, and be part of a diverse community that values your unique contribution. Your journey to professional and personal growth starts here. Discover more at - https://about.unimelb.edu.au/ At the heart of our mission is a commitment to enriching society through education and research. Through our strategy "Advancing Melbourne," we're not just shaping our own future; we're shaping the future of the state, the nation, and our global community. Together, we propel Australia forward, positioning it as an ambitious, forward-thinking leader on the world stage. Our staff play a key role in elevating Australia's reputation and influence globally. Your contributions are the driving force behind our ambition to be a leading force for positive change. Join us, and let's advance Melbourne – and the world – together. Discover more The University has committed to a strategic vision which aims to create a thriving, fair and diverse university community, working together respectfully to make a difference to each other and in the world. Join us on our journey to build a future where everyone in our community can feel a strong sense of belonging, and diverse perspectives fuel success. Discover more Want to know more about us, our processes, or future opportunities? We would love to connect with you! Get in touch with our friendly Talent Acquisition team at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au