- Join the Australian Centre for RNA Therapeutics in Cancer.
- Contribute to innovative RNA research with real-world cancer impact.
- Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 21 months.
- Base salary range: Level B, $122,876 – $145,404 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.
About the area
The Australian Centre for RNA Therapeutics in Cancer (ACRTC) is an RNA production and innovation node in Western Australia dedicated to developing cancer treatments. We aim to integrate RNA technology with cancer research strengths in Australia to translate discoveries into the clinic. We will bring together multidisciplinary groups involving RNA technologists, oncologists, consumers, and patients advocates to design, synthesise, test and improve RNA drugs; and tackle aggressive and hard to treat cancers as use cases to develop RNA drugs and platform approaches to treating cancers.
The ACRTC is funded by the Cancer Research Trust (CRT) in collaboration with UWA, Therapeutics Innovation Australia (TIA), the WA Government, Cancer Council of WA, Harry Perkins Institute, Telethon Kids Institute and Curtin University. The ACRTC includes a dedicated mRNA production facility (‘RNA Innovation Foundry, RIF’), funded through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Scheme (NCRIS) to TIA. As the WA-node of a National network of TIA-supported RNA production facilities, the ACRTC will form a critical role in the National RNA ecosystem.
The ACRTC is hosted by the UWA School of Human Sciences.
About the opportunity
- Contribute to designing mRNA Therapeutics that would confer optimal characteristics for clinical use, in terms of stability, translational efficiency, regulation and endosomal escape.
- Co-supervise PhD students and research associates conducting a range of aligned research projects.
- Collaborate and build relationships with multiple research groups, in Australia and overseas.
About you
- A PhD in molecular biology, or biotechnology.
- Demonstrated experience in RNA biology, synthetic biology, computational biology and molecular biology techniques.
- Demonstrated experience in mRNA sequence design, in vitro transcription, high throughput cell screening, next generation sequencing and flow cytometry
- A strong research track record, including peer-reviewed publications in high-quality journals.
- Excellent research, analytical, problem-solving, written communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- The ability to manage multiple projects, contribute positively to team and school activities, and supervise or mentor students.
Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.
Position description: PD - Research Fellow (524056).pdf
To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Adela Foo at adela.foo@uwa.edu.au
For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Maddy Chaplin at maddy.chaplin@uwa.edu.au
How to apply
Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.
You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.
Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Monday, 3 August 2026.
This position is only open to Current UWA staff.
About the University
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.
Learn more about us.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.
If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.
If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.