Lab Manager, X-ray Analysis and Particle Characterisation

Lab Manager, X-ray Analysis and Particle Characterisation

Location: St Lucia Campus

Time Type: Full time

Posted On: Posted 2 Days Ago

Job Requisition ID: R-43404

Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis

Position Type: Full-time, permanent position

Base Salary: $111,154 - $124,619 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 8)

About This Opportunity

Step into a pivotal leadership role at the Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis (CMM), where you will manage and oversee the X-Ray Analysis and Particle Characterisation laboratory, ensuring its smooth operation and continuous growth. Working closely with the Centre’s Director and Service Support Unit, you will lead strategic planning, support the Centre’s funding efforts, and guide a dedicated team of instrument scientists in delivering cutting-edge nanoscale characterisation services.

As Laboratory Manager, you will leverage your expertise in X-ray and particle characterisation to train new users, assist clients with experimental design, and contribute to the production of high-quality data. You will play a key role in enabling ground-breaking research by maintaining a state-of-the-art facility valued at over $6.5M, fostering new research opportunities, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to CMM's mission of delivering world-class training programs and providing expert advice that enhances the University of Queensland’s research community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the X-Ray Analysis and Particle Characterisation lab, ensuring efficient resource allocation, proper maintenance of instrumentation, and compliance with safety regulations.


• Lead and manage a small team of instrument scientists, providing direction, conducting performance appraisals, and fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.


• Train new users in the effective use of laboratory equipment, assist clients with experimental design, and provide expert guidance in data interpretation to ensure high-quality research outcomes.


• Collaborate with the Centre Director and Service Support Unit to develop strategic plans for the lab’s growth, secure ongoing funding, and manage the laboratory’s budget to support long-term operational success.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world.

Everyone here has a role to play. As a member of our professional staff cohort, you will be actively involved in working towards our vision of a better world. By supporting the academic endeavour across teaching, research, and the student life, you will have the opportunity to contribute to activities that have a lasting impact on our community.

Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:

• 26 weeks paid parental leave or 14 weeks paid primary caregiver leave


• 17% superannuation contributions


• 17.5% annual leave loading


• Access to flexible working arrangements including hybrid working options, flexible start/finish times, purchased leave, and a condensed fortnight


• Health and wellness discounts – fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family


• UQ Study for Staff


• On campus childcare options


• Affordable parking (from just $5.75 a day)


• Salary packaging options

About You

• Postgraduate qualifications in Chemistry, Physics, or Materials Engineering with a focus on Colloidal Science or Analytical X-ray methods, or equivalent experience in Particle Characterisation and/or Analytical X-ray methods.


• At least 2 years of hands-on experience in X-ray and particle characterisation techniques, with expertise in sample preparation, data processing, and equipment handling.


• Proven ability to manage and lead teams, including workload management, performance appraisals, and ensuring safety compliance in a laboratory environment.


• Strong experience in managing laboratory operations, including maintenance scheduling, troubleshooting equipment breakdowns, and working within a client-focused research platform.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise reports and effectively collaborate with both internal stakeholders and external research partners.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including right to work in Australia and a criminal check.

Work Rights: You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Roger Wepf at r.wepf@uq.edu.au

For application queries, please contact talent@uq.edu.au stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

• Cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section


• Resume

Other Information

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments.

Applications close: Thursday, 24 October 2024 at 11.00pm AEST (R-43404). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for the week of the 28th of October.