Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Supramolecular Chemistry

• School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
• Full-time (100%), fixed term position for up to 2 years  
• Base salary will be in the range $85,372 to $113,659 + 17% super (Academic Level A)
• Based at our St Lucia location 

About This Opportunity  

Join a collaborative and impact-driven research environment and contribute to an Australian Research Council funded project investigating supramolecular chemistry and flexibility in molecular crystals. You will undertake original research spanning molecular synthesis, crystal growth and advanced characterisation, while building experience in diffraction techniques, including work at major facilities. Supported by a connected community of researchers, you will be encouraged to contribute ideas, develop your research profile and help create meaningful change through globally relevant discovery.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Research: Conduct high quality, original and collaborative research in supramolecular chemistry, with a particular focus on flexible molecular crystals. Undertake molecular synthesis, crystal growth and advanced characterisation, develop and implement diffraction methods, including at major facilities, and communicate findings through high-quality publications, reports, seminars and conference presentations.
• Supervision and Researcher Development: Contribute to the effective supervision and development of Honours and Higher Degree by Research students, as appropriate, while supporting a responsible and inclusive research culture.
• Citizenship and Service: Demonstrate UQ values through collaboration, active participation in priority activities, internal service and engagement, and the responsible implementation of University policies and procedures.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.  

About You  

Essential

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in a relevant area of chemistry.
• An emerging profile in research in the discipline area.
• Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis and purification of molecules, ideally related to the field of supramolecular chemistry, as well as experience in advanced molecular characterisation methods.
• Demonstrated capability to produce, publish and communicate high quality research through publications in refereed journals and presentations at conferences.
• Proven success at working collaboratively and effectively in a high-performing setting.
• Evidence of contributions towards successfully obtaining external research funding.

We recognise that candidates may bring different strengths and experiences. The following criteria are desirable rather than essential, and we encourage you to highlight any relevant experience in your application:

• Single crystal diffraction and advanced diffraction methods.
• Density functional theory calculations.
• Python programming, or a willingness to learn.
• Higher degree student supervision.
• Strong initiative, resourcefulness and the ability to work effectively to deadlines.

About UQ  

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.  

Interested?  

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Jack Clegg at j.clegg@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.  

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted. 

Other Information   

Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia and 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 criteria 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 14 October 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R- 68675). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for early in the week commencing 26 October 2026.