Postdoctoral Fellow - DNA nanotechnology

This Job is based in Australia

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best
  
  
  

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

The DNA Nanotech Lab at UNSW Sydney is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join a team working at the interface of supramolecular chemistry, DNA nanotechnology, and biomaterials science. The successful candidate will build functional, responsive systems from the bottom up using DNA and RNA self-assembly, under the supervision of Dr. Felix Rizzuto.

This is a hands-on research role with significant intellectual freedom. The appointee will design and execute programs that leverage the chemistry of small and light-activated molecules for non-equilibrium DNA systems; characterise materials using advanced imaging (AFM, TEM), fluorescence spectroscopy, and biostructural tools; and collaborate with a diverse team of students and researchers across chemistry, biology, and materials science. Opportunities exist for the fellow to supervise students, collaborate with industry partners on translational research, contribute to grant development, and establish new lines of inquiry within the group’s broader mission. For more info on the group, see https://www.rizzutogroup.org/..

About The Role

• $113K - $121K plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 2 years
• Full-time (35 hours per week)
  
  
  

The role reports to Scientia Senior Lecturer Dr. Felix Rizzuto and has no direct reports.

About Us

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged, and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

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

Specific Responsibilities For This Role Include

• Contribute independently or as a team member in collaborative research with a focus to enhance the quality of research outcomes in the discipline area.
• Conduct research (as per the norms of the discipline) and/or enable research teams to create scholarly output that is recognised by peers.
• Undertake specific research project/s under the guidance of a research leader and contribute to development of research activities.
• Support the dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets.
• Undertake discipline-appropriate research activities, e.g. surveys, literature reviews, data gathering and/or recording of results using appropriate research methods.
• Participate in and/or present at conferences and/or workshops relevant to the project as required.
• Assist with the supervision of research students in the research area where required.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.
  
  
  

About The Successful Applicant

(Selection Criteria)

To Be Successful In This Role You Will Have

• A PhD in Chemistry, Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, or a related discipline.
• Strong prior experience in DNA nanoscience and/or DNA origami synthesis and characterisation.
• Previous experience with non-academic and industry projects is desirable.
• Demonstrated expertise in supramolecular chemistry, computational modelling, and/or biochemistry is desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Evidence of supervision or mentoring of students.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills, ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety 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:

Felix Rizzuto

E: f.rizzuto@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: August 12th, 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.