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The School of Chemistry is internationally recognised for its excellence in research and teaching. Our mission is to nurture students to become leaders who will generate societal, economic, and environmental benefits. The School is one of the largest and most prestigious schools in Australia for thriving research programs. Our School’s QS ranking for 2025 is #49 globally and the highest in Australia. For further information on the School go to https://www.unsw.edu.au/science/our-schools/chemistry

The Senior Research Associate is a central role within the ARC funded Industry Laureate project, leading independent and collaborative research focused on advanced aptamer-based sensor technology. The position involves coordinating electrochemical investigations to develop electrodes to enable deeper insights into sensor development and facilitate their transition toward commercial applications. This role requires a high level of technical expertise, innovative thinking, and a proven track record in electrochemical research to drive the project’s success.

About the role

• $127K - $150K plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 3 years
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

The role reports to Scientia Professor Justin Gooding and has no direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

• Design, perform and supervise experiments in electrochemical evaluation of sensors.
• Supervise and mentor students and colleagues, fostering a collaborative and productive research environment.
• Write and maintain laboratory notebooks detailing all experimental procedures, observations, and results.
• Successfully complete experiments and on-time provision of analysis on results.
• Analyse and write results of experiments in a format suitable for publication in peer reviewed journals.
• Contribute to the authorship of scientific papers and reports for international journals and progress reporting to other researchers and industry partners.
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposal submissions to funding bodies and actively seek collaboration with industry partners as appropriate.
• Lead the coordination of research activities and actively contribute to research outputs to meet project milestones.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences, representing the project at a high professional standard.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Ensure hazards and risks psychosocial and physical are identified and controlled for tasks, projects, and activities that pose a health and safety risk within your area of responsibility.

About the successful applicant
(Selection Criteria)

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A PhD specialising in electrochemistry.
• Proven commitment in the development of aptamer-based sensor technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement electrochemical procedures for surface characterisation.
• Extensive experience in performing electrochemical measurements with precision and reliability.
• Significant experience in interfacial design and the development of new surface chemistries.
• Proven success in a research environment, including mentoring and supervising PhD and Honours students, fostering academic growth and research excellence.
• Established record of delivering high quality research outputs, and capacity to conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
• Exceptional communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Strong interpersonal and organisational skills.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed above in your application.

Please apply online - applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:
Justin Gooding
E: justin.gooding@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: November 5^th, 2025

Find out more about working at UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.