Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Plant Virology and Vector Biology

Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Plant Virology and Vector Biology

Locations: Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Time Type: Full time

Posted On: Posted 18 Days Ago

Time Left to Apply: End Date: November 13, 2024 (9 days left to apply)

Job Requisition ID: R000017157

Primary Detail

• Build your academic networks and access cutting-edge facilities and technology
• Full-time, 3 years fixed term with a possibility of renewal subject to funding
• Work Location: Macquarie University and Central Coast Primary Industries Centre, Ourimbah, Australia

Macquarie University is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on a Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) funded project focused on understanding the impact of plant viruses on the growth and fitness of cereals, pulses, and canola in Australia. This position will combine expertise in plant virology, vector biology, and molecular diagnostics to develop effective virus management strategies that enhance crop productivity and resilience.

This postdoctoral position offers a unique opportunity to work on a high-impact project that will address pressing challenges in virus management for the Australian grain industry. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team and contribute to developing sustainable solutions for managing plant viruses in key crops. The successful candidate will be located at Macquarie University, Sydney, and Central Coast Primary Industries Centre, Ourimbah, Australia.

Key Accountabilities

• Conduct research on plant-virus-vector interactions, particularly focusing on virus transmission by insect vectors in cereals, pulses, and canola.
• Utilize molecular biology techniques to detect and test for the presence of plant viruses in crops and vectors.
• Design, implement, and analyse experiments assessing the impact of plant viruses on the growth, development, and fitness of various grain crops.
• Collaborate with agricultural stakeholders, including farmers, industry representatives, and government agencies, to translate research outcomes into practical virus management solutions.
• Develop integrated virus management strategies, incorporating genetic resistance, cultural practices, and vector control.
• Prepare reports, scientific papers, and presentations to communicate research findings to both scientific and industry audiences.
• Contribute to the supervision and mentoring of undergraduate and postgraduate students involved in the project.

Selection Criteria

To be considered for this position, applicants must address the selection criteria below and attach your CV (including a list of two referees), a statement of research interests and achievements.

• A PhD in plant virology, vector biology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in plant-virus interactions, molecular diagnostics, and working with plant pathogens.
• Expertise in vector biology, particularly in the transmission dynamics of plant viruses.
• Experience in designing and conducting field or laboratory experiments to assess the impact of plant diseases on crop growth and fitness.
• Strong analytical skills, including proficiency in statistical data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team and with external stakeholders.
• Ability to assist supervising postgraduate students.
• Experience of presenting research results at seminars and/or scientific meetings.
• Excellent written communication skills demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications.

Desirable:

• Experience with agricultural systems, particularly cereals, pulses, and canola.
• Knowledge of integrated pest and disease management practices.
• Familiarity with GRDC priorities and Australian grain cropping systems.

Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term for a period of 3 years with a possibility of further extension subject to funding.

Salary Package: From $106,089 (Level A, Step 6) to $113,697 per annum, plus 17% employer superannuation. Appointment level will be determined based on successful candidate's experience and skills.

Enquiries: Dr Piotr Trebicki via email piotr.trebicki@mq.edu.au

If 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: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close: 12/11/2024 11:59 PM

Diversity and Inclusion

Innovation and ingenuity thrive at Macquarie University when diversity, equity and inclusion take centre stage. At the University, we embrace a culture where diversity of background, experience and perspective are fundamental to our success.

We do not discriminate on gender identity, age, culture, disability, sexuality, Indigeneity, family and caring responsibilities or religion. See our journey towards leadership in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education.

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.

About Us

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation 54 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. Connect with us today.