Research Associate in Synthetic/Medicinal Chemistry

School of Molecular Sciences

• An opportunity to you use your chemistry expertise to make a positive change for cancer patients
• Seeking 1–2 researchers to join our team
• 1-year fixed term full time opportunity, with potential for extension
• Base salary range: Level A $74,236 – $99,905 p.a. (pro rata) plus 17% superannuation

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked amongst the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research-intensive universities.  With an enviable research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to ‘innovate and inspire’, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

About the team 

UWA's School of Molecular Sciences comprises the disciplines of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, and Genetics, providing a fertile and vibrant environment for research at the interface of chemistry and biology. Research strengths include medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, structural biology, crystallography, bionanotechnology, catalysis, chemical ecology, epigenetics, genomics, lactology, materials chemistry, molecular electronics, molecular plant sciences, natural products, proteomics, synthetic biology, and systems biology. The School occupies the beautiful Bayliss building, housing world-class laboratories and meeting spaces, and ready access to cutting edge equipment and instrumentation.

About the opportunity 

As a Research Associate in the Piggott research group, you will play a key role in supporting a program of research on the discovery and development of small molecule immuno-oncology drugs, with the aim of increasing the proportion of cancer patients that benefit from immunotherapy.

You will contribute to the design of target compounds, and execute their synthesis, purification and characterisation. The role involves working closely with collaborators, including the Lesterhuis group at the Telethon Kids Institute (cancer biology), and the Vrielink group in SMS UWA (structural biology). You will also regularly present results, and write reports and manuscripts.

To be considered for this role, you will demonstrate:

• A PhD (or nearly completed PhD) in synthetic organic chemistry
• Experience in the synthesis, purification and characterisation of organic compounds, particularly using NMR spectroscopy.
• Demonstrated aptitude for research, with a sound publication record, relative to opportunity
• Ability to work both independently and co-operatively in a multi-disciplinary research-based team environment and
• An interest in training and mentoring junior colleagues

About your application

Full details of the position's responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position description:  PD 510131.pdf

You are required to address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 14 August 2022

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

Application Details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce. We celebrate inclusion and diversity and believe gender equity is fundamental to achieving our goals.

• We have child friendly areas on campus, including childcare facilities. Flexible work arrangements, part-time hours and job sharing will all be considered
• UWA has been awarded Bronze Employer Status for being a Top Ten Employer for LGBTI Inclusion by the Australian Workplace Equity Index (AWEI -2021)
• UWA has also been awarded Athena Swan Bronze Accreditation in 2020

UWA is committed to inclusive recruitment and is happy to adjust the recruitment process for your accessibility requirements. If you have queries in relation to the application process, please contact talent-hr@uwa.edu.au referencing the 6-digit job reference number and type of communication you