We have an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the molecular immunology of infectious and chronic diseases, within the Division of Tropical Health and Medicine (DTHM) at James Cook University (JCU). JCU is committed to creating a brighter future for life in the tropics world-wide through graduates and discoveries that make a difference. This full-time, fixed-term 3-year appointment will be based at the tropical Cairns campus.

Our Division

The roles reside in a newly-established health and medical research institute within DTHM, the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM). AITHM’s focus is on research in tropical health and medicine across a wide range of disciplines with a particular focus on northern Australia, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.

Your Role

This position offers the opportunity to expand on recent advances in molecular immunology and genomic based technologies to develop effective therapeutics or diagnostics against malaria and other chronic infectious diseases. A specific interest is to explore the mechanisms underlying immune responsiveness and vaccine efficacy, using samples from controlled human experimental infection studies, vaccination studies, or individuals naturally exposed to the disease, using innovative computational analysis of large scale datasets. A related interest is on omic-based technologies and rational vaccine design. An underlying concept is that development of optimally efficacious interventions against chronic infectious diseases such as malaria will need to improve on nature, and this can be accomplished by mining large-scale omic datasets to identify molecules and mechanisms underlying protective immunity. It is anticipated that this research will have broad application to a wide range of infectious and chronic diseases, withimportant implications for therapeutic vaccination and diagnostic development.

Applicants must possess a PhD or equivalent, a demonstrated proficiency to carry out high quality research, and a proven record of accomplishment. Expertise in cellular immunology is required. A background in systems immunology, immune regulation, host-pathogen interactions. genomics, proteomics and computational sciences is particularly desirable. Excellent computer, communication, and organisational skills are essential. Forward thinking, innovation and creativity are encouraged. 

Culture & Benefits

JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth as well as diverse career opportunities. JCU prides itself on being dedicated to teaching, learning and research that is not only of high quality, but also delivers practical benefits to the peoples and industries of the region.

• generous superannuation scheme with 17% employer contributions
• five weeks annual recreation leave
• flexible working arrangements
• attractive options for salary packaging

How to Apply

If you are an established professional looking to contribute to our research outcomes, please apply online via the jobs@jcu website:  https://www.jcu.edu.au/careers-at-jcu/vacancies

vacancy reference number: 16264

Applications close: Sunday 11 March 2018