Research Associate – Chemistry

Research Associate – Chemistry

Job no: 515191
Work type: full time
Location: Sydney, NSW
Categories: Post Doctoral Research Associate

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At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

The School of Chemistry at UNSW is recognised nationally and internationally, for producing world-class fundamental and applied research in the field of Chemical Sciences to address real-world challenges. The School’s research strengths include Health, Energy, Advanced Materials, Sustainability as well as understanding fundamental molecular properties.

The role of the Research Associate will be to work on a project related to prebiotic chemistry that seeks to synthesize peptides for self-assembly and nonenzymatic template-directed peptide synthesis. Peptides will initially be synthesized using standard solid-phase automated techniques. Template-directed peptide synthesis will require development and optimization of appropriate aqueous-phase activation chemistry for peptide bond formation. Analysis of the reaction will require physical organic and supramolecular experimental techniques. Later stages of the project will also involve synthetic RNA oligomers.

About the role

$100K – $107K plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading

Fixed Term – 2 years

Full-time (35 hours per week)

The Research Associate reports to Dr Albert Fahrenbach and has no direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

Solid-phase synthesis and characterization of peptides.

Carrying out and analysing template-directed peptide synthesis using techniques like HPLC, NMR spectroscopy and LC-MS.

Contribute to the design of research protocols, analysis of the literature and the acquisition, interpretation, and analysis of data.

Mentor junior researchers and students and provide guidance on quantitative research methods to enhance their contributions, development, and careers.

Prepare and author research manuscripts and reports for publication in quality peer reviewed journals.

Present papers at conferences and workshops.

Develop research project grant applications and seek research funding.

Align with and actively demonstrate the UNSW Values in Action: Our Behaviours and the UNSW Code of Conduct.

Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.

About the successful applicant
(Selection Criteria)

To be successful in this role you will have:

A PhD in organic/peptide chemistry or a related field.

A working knowledge of biochemistry is required; an undergraduate (or masters) degree in biochemistry or a related field is preferred.

Expertise in solid-phase peptide synthesis is required; experience in supramolecular chemistry is preferred; experience in RNA solid-phase synthesis is preferred.

Expertise in NMR spectroscopy, HPLC and LCMS is preferred.

Demonstrated track record in peer reviewed publications.

Skills in the analysis of quantitative data using appropriate analysis software.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills with the ability to build and manage professional working relationships.

Demonstrated experience in research environment and in training research students.

An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.

Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed above in your application.

Please apply online – applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:
Albert Fahrenbach
E:  

Applications close: April 14th, 2023

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Advertised: 17 Mar 2023 AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 14 Apr 2023 AUS Eastern Standard Time