Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Synthetic Biology

Macquarie University; Council of the City of Sydney; On-site; AUD 106,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Australian university is seeking a Research Fellow to join a multi-disciplinary team in the Australian Genome Foundry. This role involves developing genome engineering approaches and leading research initiatives. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in genome engineering or a related field and has strong collaborative skills. Join a vibrant team pushing the boundaries of synthetic biology and contribute to impactful research outcomes. Applications close on January 5, 2026.

Benefits

17% employer's superannuation

Flexible work environment

Opportunity for impactful research

Qualifications

• Completed PhD in genome engineering, synthetic biology, or related discipline.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and lead research in the Australian Genome Foundry.
• Develop novel genome engineering approaches.
• Identify and apply for research funding.

Skills

Genome engineering

Synthetic biology

Verbal and written communication

Collaboration

Microbial strain engineering

Education

PhD in genome engineering or related discipline

Job description

## **PRIMARY DETAIL**- Salary Package: From $106,089 (LEVEL A.6) to $141,790 (Level B) p.a. plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading - Appointment Type: Full-time, 2 years fixed term - Location: Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus (North Ryde)Join a multi-disciplinary team pushing the boundaries of synthetic genomics.**The Role**The School of Natural Sciences is currently seeking a suitably qualified Research Fellow to join a multi-disciplinary team within the Australian Genome Foundry. This multifaceted role involves showcasing high-throughput biofoundry technology in the development of new genome engineering approaches and construction of synthetic chromosomes. The primary role of the position is to help coordinate and lead research in the Australian Genome Foundry alongside the Chief Scientist and Scientific Director.The successful applicant will work with Dr Briardo Llorente and Distinguished Professor Ian Paulsen to:* Develop novel genome engineering approaches* Build synthetic chromosomes* Establish and showcase cutting edge biofoundry workflows, including ultra-high-throughput screens for desired phenotypes* Co-supervise HDR students and work with biofoundry staff on the above areas of research* Initiate and maintain academic and industry collaborations, and apply for research funding* Communicate research findings in scientific journals and at conferences**About You**You will have completed a PhD in genome engineering, synthetic biology, or a closely related discipline. You will enjoy contributing to impactful research outcomes and working effectively as part of an international research team. Your collaborative approach to working with others will ensure you perform effectively within a multi-disciplinary environment. If you are an excellent communicator with a proactive nature and are flexible and resilient in your approach, then this is a role you will thrive in and a team you will enjoy working with.Located at and within the , the is a high-throughput strain engineering facility with a highly automated workflow. This means rather than having a researcher building one strain at a time manually, the same researcher could build hundreds or thousands of strains in parallel using our robotic platforms. The is capable of synthesizing complete eukaryotic chromosomes and consists of modular robotic platforms capable of automated construction and analysis of synthetic microbial strains.Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. .**How To Apply***To be considered for this position, please apply online by submitting your CV and a separate cover letter that demonstrates how you meet the following selection criteria:***Selection Criteria:*** PhD in genome engineering, synthetic biology, or related discipline* Exceptional verbal and written communication skills* Ability to work collaboratively and work independently without close supervision Relevant experience with microbial strain engineering and evaluation, especially with yeast, plants, and bacteria* Ability to devise and implement synthetic biology approaches Experienced at molecular and microbiology protocols**Desirable*** Experience supervising higher degree research students* Understanding of standard flow cytometry procedures* Understanding of the fundamentals of bio foundry automation* Experience with plant research (genetic engineering, molecular biology, phenotype characterisation)***We welcome applications from international applicants.******\*Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received on a rolling basis, and we reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.\******Role Enquiries:** Briardo Llorente, Chief Scientific Officer, Australian Genome Foundry via e-mail [e-mail]**Applications Close**: Monday 5th of January 2026 at 11:59pm AESTIf you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.**Applications Close:**06/01/2026 11:59 PM **A Place Where You Belong** At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our .**Flexible Work** At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our page.