At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and analyse proteins for RNA modification using advanced microscopy techniques.
- Company: Join the University of Western Australia, a leader in molecular sciences.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous parental leave, competitive salary, and discounts on courses.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in structural biology research while collaborating with top experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in Structural Biology or related field; expertise in molecular biology required.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant, inclusive environment in one of the world's most liveable cities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 Β£ per year.
- 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
- 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
- 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
- Salary packaging options.
- 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
- 25% off UWA full fee courses, discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
- Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
Research Associate (Structural Biology)
Job no: 521306
Work type: Full Time
Location: Crawley
Categories: Science
- Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for two years.
- Base salary range: Level A, Step 8, $112,371 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.
About the area
The School of Molecular Sciences is home to the Structural Biology group of Prof Charlie Bond, alongside colleagues in chemistry, biochemistry and genetics, including Prof Ian Small. The Bond and Small groups collaborate on an Australian Research Council Discovery Project on structure-function studies of pentatricopeptide repeat proteins, an area where they have had consistent national competitive grant funding for 13 years.
The School is located in the Bayliss Building, on the main Crawley campus of the University of Western Australia, a purpose built facility with state of the art research infrastructure for all aspects of molecular sciences based research. The campus is located in Perth, Western Australia, one of the most liveable cities on the planet.
About the opportunity
- Design, overexpress, purify, and structurally analyse variant pentatricopeptide repeat proteins for controlled enzymatic RNA modification using cryo electron microscopy and crystallography.
- Work closely with project members on experimental design, data interpretation, and supervise students on a day-to-day basis.
- Collaborate with staff at the Centre for Microscopy and Analysis and actively participate in the CryoEM User Group.
About you
- A PhD in Structural Biology or a related discipline.
- Expertise in standard molecular biology and recombinant protein expression and purification methods.
- Expertise in sample preparation, data collection and structure analysis using cryoelectron microscopy (single particle analysis).
- Track record (relative to opportunity) of reporting research as evidenced by peer reviewed journal articles published in respected scholarly journals.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of an inclusive collaborative team.
Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria .
Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Monday, 27 October 2025
This position is open to international applicants.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.
If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.
If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.
Advertised: 19 Sep 2025 W. Australia Standard Time
Applications close: 27 Oct 2025 W. Australia Standard Time
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Research Associate (Structural Biology) employer: UWA
Contact Detail:
UWA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Structural Biology)
β¨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your field! Attend conferences, seminars, or even casual meet-ups. We all know that sometimes itβs not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Research Associate gig.
β¨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, donβt hold back! Share your expertise in structural biology and any cool projects you've worked on. We want to see your passion and knowledge shine through!
β¨Tailor Your Approach
Make sure you tailor your conversations and presentations to the specific role. Highlight your experience with cryo electron microscopy and protein purification. We want to see how you fit into their team and contribute to their research goals.
β¨Apply Through Our Website
Donβt forget to apply online via our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, weβve got loads of resources to help you nail those selection criteria. Letβs get you that Research Associate position!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Structural Biology)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Research Associate role. We want to see how you fit into our team and contribute to the exciting projects at UWA!
Address the Selection Criteria: Donβt forget to address the selection criteria in a separate document as mentioned in the job description. This is your chance to showcase your expertise in structural biology and related disciplines, so make it count!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for research shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about the work we do, especially in areas like cryo electron microscopy and protein analysis.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply online via the 'Apply Now' button on our website. Itβs the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you donβt miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at UWA
β¨Know Your Research
Make sure youβre well-versed in the latest developments in structural biology, especially around pentatricopeptide repeat proteins. Familiarise yourself with the work of Prof Charlie Bond and Prof Ian Small, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the teamβs research focus.
β¨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your expertise in molecular biology techniques, particularly recombinant protein expression and purification. Brush up on your knowledge of cryo-electron microscopy and crystallography, and be ready to discuss your previous research experiences and publications.
β¨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with project members and supervising students. Be prepared to share examples of how youβve successfully collaborated in the past, highlighting your ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
β¨Address the Selection Criteria
When applying, make sure to address the selection criteria in your submission. This is crucial! Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with what theyβre looking for, and donβt forget to provide specific examples to back up your claims.