The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will contribute to a collaborative and inquisitive research environment within the research group of Professor Mark Blaskovich at UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience. This research‑focused role supports the discovery and development of novel therapeutic leads to treat bacterial and fungal infections, with a strong emphasis on medicinal and chemical biology approaches to antibiotic innovation. Working alongside senior academics and multidisciplinary collaborators, the appointee will progressively build autonomy while advancing an emerging research profile aligned with UQ’s purpose of creating change together.
This opportunity sits within a globally connected research ecosystem, complemented by UQ’s recent advances in antimicrobial innovation, including work on virus‑fighting surface technologies that demonstrate the University’s strength in translational bioscience research.
Key responsibilities will include:
Supporting the management of the chemistry research group and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
Designing, synthesising, and fully characterising derivatised antibiotics and lipids and hybrid therapeutic compounds.
Coordinating pharmacological, biophysical and biological assays to drive drug discovery and structure‑activity relationship studies.
Preparing research publications, reports and presentations, contributing to grant applications, and collaborating with colleagues and postgraduate researchers.
This is a full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 6 months at Academic Level A.
Completion of a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or Chemical Biology.
Demonstrated capability in small molecule, peptide and lipid design, synthesis, purification, and characterisation.
Experience conducting structure‑activity relationship studies and troubleshooting complex synthetic pathways.
A developing track record of publishing research findings in peer‑reviewed journals.
Well‑developed laboratory, communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.
Ability to build effective professional relationships and represent the research area within the University and broader scientific community.
An interest in contributing to supervision of Honours or Higher Degree by Research students, as appropriate.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Mark Blaskovich at m.blaskovich@imb.uq.edu.au For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarizing how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section.
Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia and qualifications check. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.
We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.
Applications close Tuesday May 26th 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-63659). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for the week commencing June 8th 2026.
