Research Associate - Chemistry

Overview

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work. THIS ROLE IS LOCATED IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA.

The School of Chemistry teaches more than 2000 undergraduate students each year from many different faculties and offers four undergraduate programs leading to majors in chemistry taught across five teaching laboratories focusing on First Year, Synthetic, Analytical and Physical Chemistry. The Research Associate position is expected to contribute to the research effort of UNSW and to develop their research expertise in single molecule localisation microscopy combined with electrochemistry. This position is located in the Smart Materials and Surfaces research group in the School of Chemistry and is part of an ARC Discovery grant on the combination of electrochemistry and super-resolution light microscopy.

About The Role

• Salary: $113K – $121K plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Term: Fixed Term – 12 months
• Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)

The role of Research Associate reports to Scientia Professor Justin Gooding and has no direct reports.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a Discovery research project focused on combining fluorescence microscopy with electrochemistry to control fluorophore properties.
• Contribute independently or as a team member in collaborative research to drive the grant\’s success and enhance research outcomes.
• Design and execute experiments to understand the impact of electrochemistry on the fluorescent properties of fluorophores and exploit this to develop new microscopy methods based on single molecule counting.
• Analyse experimental data, interpret results, and support dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets.
• Prepare and present findings at internal meetings, external project updates with collaborators, and scientific conferences and workshops.
• Assist with supervision of research students as required.
• Align with and demonstrate the UNSW Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with health and safety policies and procedures and ensure actions do not compromise health and safety.

About The Successful Applicant

To Be Successful In This Role You Will Have

• A PhD in optical physics or cell biology with a strong emphasis on fluorescence microscopy
• Demonstrated expertise in fluorescence microscopy, immunolabeling and single molecule localisation microscopy
• Demonstrated experience or interest in electrochemistry
• Commitment to staying up to date with discipline knowledge and developments
• Ability to undertake high-quality academic research and conduct independent work with limited supervision as well as teamwork
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publications and conference presentations
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and build effective relationships
• Highly developed interpersonal skills
• Ability to communicate with a diverse range of stakeholders and students
• Understanding of UNSW’s aims, objectives and values and related policies
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to relevant training

You should systematically address the selection criteria in your application. Please apply online — applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact

Justin Gooding
E: justin.gooding@unsw.edu.au

Applications close

October 2, 2025

Find Out More

Find out more about working at UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ communities, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged. The University provides workplace adjustments for people with disability and flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.