Research Fellow- School of Medical Sciences

·       Full time, fixed term ending 30 June 2029

·       Research fellow role studying Rett Syndrome with the School of Medical Sciences

·       Base Salary $132,533 + 17% superannuation 

About the opportunity
The School of Medical Sciences is recognised as one of the leading centres for medical science education in the world. With over 100 years of excellence in education, we are proud to be training the next generation of medical scientists who will be leading members of the medical research community with an innovative integrated curriculum. Our team of researchers lead key internationally competitive research from molecules to medicines, from patient to policy across a range of therapeutic areas.   

 

We are seeking a Research Fellow to support Professor Wendy Gold and the team in developing gene therapies and improving diagnosis, treatment options, and quality of life for individuals with rare and ultra-rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders including Rett Syndrome. The team is focused on better understanding the natural history of many rare diseases through biomarker studies and patient registries.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• conduct high-quality, independent research aligned with the laboratory's strategic objectives in neurodevelopmental disorders and therapeutic development
• design, perform, and analyse experiments using appropriate molecular, genetic, cellular, and preclinical methodologies

• contribute to the development of competitive research grant applications and secure external funding.

• publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences.

• supervise and mentor higher degree research students, research assistants, and junior laboratory staff.

• maintain accurate research records and ensure compliance with ethical, biosafety, and regulatory requirements.

• collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary researchers, clinicians, industry partners, and external collaborators.

• contribute to the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, including equipment management, protocol development, and quality assurance.

• participate in research translation activities, including engagement with stakeholders, industry, and consumer groups where appropriate.

• contribute to the academic and research culture of the institution through collegial service, professional development, and fostering an inclusive research environment.

About you

• PhD in neuroscience, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline
• demonstrated expertise in developing gene therapies and molecular therapeutics for neurodevelopmental disorders
• strong genetic and molecular understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders
• experience conducting independent, high-quality research and leading projects from conception through to publication
• demonstrated experience in experimental design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation using contemporary scientific methodologies
• experience with behavioural testing and phenotyping of animal models of neurodevelopmental disorders expertise in preclinical disease modelling, molecular biology, gene editing, viral vector technologies, and translational neuroscience research
• a strong track record of publications in high-quality peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences
• demonstrated success in securing competitive research funding and contributing to grant applications
• experience supervising and mentoring higher degree research students, honours students, research assistants, and junior research staff
• sound understanding of research ethics, biosafety, animal ethics, regulatory requirements, and good research practice
• demonstrated ability to establish and maintain productive collaborations with multidisciplinary researchers, clinicians, industry partners, and external stakeholders
• excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with scientific, clinical, industry, and consumer audiences

Work Rights

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

As this position is located on an NSW Health site, it is a regulatory requirement to complete compulsory employment checks prior to starting in this position. For more information and instructions, please visit:NSW Health employment requirements

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. 

 

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard.  Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

 

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Cecilia Blamey, Recruitment Operations by email to [email protected].

 

© The University of Sydney

 

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
© The University of Sydney

Click to view the Position Description for this role.

Applications Close

Wednesday 12 August 2026 11:59 PM