Research Associate - Super Resolution Microscopy

Join to apply for the Research Associate - Super Resolution Microscopy role at UNSW. One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities, UNSW offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion. Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best.

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 different undergraduate programs leading to majors in chemistry that are taught in five teaching laboratories specialising in First Year, Synthetic, Analytical and Physical Chemistry.

The Research Associate position is expected to contribute towards 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

• $110K - $117K plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 12 months
• Full-time (35 hours per week)
• The role of Research Associate reports to Scientia Professor Justin Gooding and has no direct reports.

Specific Responsibilities For This Role Include

• 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 with a focus to drive the success of the grant and enhance the quality of research outcomes.
• Design and execute experiments to understand the impact of electrochemistry on the fluorescent properties of fluorophores and exploit this understanding for developing new microscopy methods based on single molecule counting.
• Analyse experimental data, interpret results, and support the dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets.
• Prepare and present findings at internal meetings, external project update meetings with the collaborators and scientific conferences and workshops.
• Assist with the supervision of research students in the research area where required.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.

About The Successful Applicant (Selection Criteria)

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.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed above 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: July 17th, 2025.

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