Research Associate in Chemistry/Materials Science, Flinders University, Australia

Last Date: 24 Sept 2023.

Position Details

  • Fixed term until 2026 | Full-Time
  • Academic Level A | $83,500 – $101,192 p.a.
  • Location: Bedford Park / Kaurna Country
  • View Position Description

About the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation:

We are the leading Australian research and training centre tackling biofilm-related challenges.

The ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation, led by Flinders University, is a 5 year, $7.8m research and training program, bringing together 5 universities, 10 industry partners and key industry and regulatory bodies to deliver innovative research and biofilm solutions to tackle important issues for the maritime and water industries.

Biofilms grow on all surfaces and environments, from catheters to drinking water pipes and ships. They are complex organisations of cells that grow on both living and inert surfaces and are both viscous and elastic in nature. They can be made up of a single species or comprise several species of different types of microorganisms, including those that pose a threat to either human health or our environment. Biofilm attachment and development cannot be prevented completely thus they cost billions each year to those attempting to eradicate them.

By working with industries to develop innovative solutions that meet their needs and alleviate their biofilm-related problems, the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation aims to: transform biofouling management strategies for maritime platforms; train the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists and engineers; and to develop biofilm management strategies across the defence and water industries to address evolving regulatory stringency.


About the Role

Flinders University is seeking a Research Associate in Chemistry/Materials Science to join the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation.

Working under the direction of the Chief Investigator, Professor Mats Andersson, and partner investigators at Sparc Technologies Ltd, the Research Associate will assist in leading the design and execution of the research project which aims to develop and access conducting marine antifouling coatings.

As the Research Associate you will be required to:  

  • Assist in supervising and training students involved in the research project, according to the University’s policies, practices and standards.
  • Contribute to the planning and execution of research by offering new ideas, reviewing relevant literature and other sources of information, actively participating in the production of data and attending seminars, meetings and conferences.
  • Contribute to ethical, high quality and innovative research and evaluation through activities such as scholarship, quality publication, external grant acquisition and presentation that aligns with the College areas of research strength and focus.

About You

The successful Research Associate will have the ability to deliver project targets on time and critically review the literature in relevant fields. You will be an excellent communicator as you establish and maintain effective relationships, proving you can collaborate and engage with diverse stakeholders and industry partners.

As the Research Associate in Chemistry/Materials Science you will demonstrate:

  • A PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field or significant progress toward completion of a PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
  • Proven experience in performing electrochemical characterisation of materials.
  • Demonstrated experience in preparing coated electrodes for electrochemical experiments.
  • Demonstrated experience in working with polymeric materials.

Life at Flinders

We’re transforming and investing in people and facilities to create contemporary, stimulating, and satisfying learning and work environments that reflect our core values of excellence, innovation, courage, and integrity. Flinders is refocusing its strategic priorities with the aim of elevating its performance to be a top ten Australian university, and amongst the top 1% in the world.

Reaching beyond the limits of buildings, borders, and backgrounds, ours is an inclusive culture that believes absolutely in equality and opportunity for all. We don’t just accommodate differences; we embrace and celebrate them. So, why work at Flinders?

  • 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Wide range of professional development activities and services
  • We embrace diversity and promote equity and inclusion for all students and staff
  • Vibrant campus life and amenities including on campus health care servicesgym and childcare centre (Bedford Park, South Australia).

Prescribed Conditions for Employment

  • Potentially attain, and maintain, an Australian Security Baseline clearance level as determined under the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF).
  • A valid National Police Certificate which is satisfactory to the University will also be required before the successful applicant can commence in this position.
  • A valid Australian Drivers License will be required.
  • Please note that you may be required to provide evidence that you are up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, in line with the Flinders University COVID-19 Vaccination Policy 

How to Apply and Information

  • You are required to submit a Suitability Statement of no more than 3 pages, addressing the Key Position Capabilities of the position description available on page 2-3.
  • For more information regarding this position, please contact Professor Mats Andersson

Certification

Applications to be submitted before 10.00pm:24 Sept 2023

At Flinders we embrace and celebrate diversity and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Flinders. Fearless.

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