Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Neuroscience

• Queensland Brain Institute
• Full-time (100% FTE), fixed-term position for 12 months commencing ASAP

• Base salary will range from $85,373 to $113,660 (Academic Level A) + 17% Super
• Based at our vibrant St Lucia campus

We are seeking a motivated and driven Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our world-leading Queensland Brain Institute. Our laboratory works at the forefront of using low intensity ultrasound and improved anti-tau antibodies to develop therapies for Alzheimer’s disease. A critical issue for anti-tau antibodies is to reach their intraneuronal target in the brain.

In this research-focused role, you will contribute to the development of novel monoclonal antibody therapies for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to optimizing a novel modified monoclonal antibody for increased intracellular uptake in vivo, the role includes increasing the specificity of this antibody for neuronal uptake using innovative approaches. Working within a collaborative and high-performing neuroscience team, you will design and conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to validate antibodies targeting tau and help translate innovative discoveries into therapeutic outcomes.

Join a vibrant research community of leading scientists, researchers and students dedicated to advancing neuroscience and creating meaningful impact through world-class discovery and translation.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Research: Design and conduct research to improve and functionally validate antibodies targeting tau in neurodegeneration in vitro and in mouse models, undertake data analysis, prepare manuscripts, publish high-quality research and present findings at laboratory, institutional, national and international meetings, and prepare reports for the funders.
• Funding and Research Development: Apply for independent and collaborative research funding, maintain familiarity with relevant scientific literature and contribute actively to the disciplined academic environment of the laboratory and institute.
• Supervision and Researcher Development: Contribute to the supervision and development of junior researchers and students, support responsible research practices and help enable the smooth running of the laboratory.
• Citizenship and Service: Contribute to a safe, inclusive and collegial laboratory environment, participate in priority activities for the laboratory and institute, and uphold University values, policies and responsible research practices.

• Completion of a PhD in Biochemistry, Protein Engineering, Neuroscience or any relevant discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in protein chemistry, recombinant protein expression and cell culture.
• Demonstrated proficiency in oral and written communication.
• Publication(s) in reputable refereed journals and presenting at conferences.
• Experience contributing to meaningful internal service activities, collaborative research environments or external engagement.

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged. As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Jürgen Götz, NHMRC Leadership Fellow, at j.goetz@uq.edu.au or Dr Esteban Cruz, antibody development leader e.cruz@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number R-69089.

Please note, the contract end date is based on an interim analysis of the project outcomes. Discussions will occur prior to this date as to the continuation of this funding and this position.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter including responses to the ‘About You’ selection criteria above. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.

Pre-employment checks will include verification of the right to work in Australia and your qualifications. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

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 criterion 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 29th November 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (Job Reference Number: R-69089).