Postdoctoral Research Fellow Photobioreactor Automation

at  University Of Technology Sydney

The UTS Climate Change Cluster (C3) provides a deeper understanding of the world’s aquatic plant and microbe ecosystems that are critical to the wellbeing of the global community. We produce new insights that address the challenges of human and ecological interactions with the climate.
We conduct interdisciplinary research bridging physical, chemical, and life sciences to address climate change impacts on ecosystems. Our work generates critical knowledge and solutions to global challenges, including food and energy security, sustainability, ecological resilience, and the nexus of human and environmental health.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are recruiting for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Photobioreactor Automation to contribute to the commercialisation of algal technologies by translating laboratory innovations into industry-ready solutions, including elite strain development and scalable cultivation protocols.
The successful candidate will provide expertise in the automation of photobioreactors and in-line spectroscopic instrumentation to a multidisciplinary team of biologists, engineers, and data scientists to deliver cutting-edge automation solutions for the Algal Phenomics Facility.
In this role you will contribute to the continued growth of research areas, proactively engage with industry professionals, and supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students.

To be successful in this role you will have experience in algal cultivation, including working with various photobioreactor designs, chlorophyll a fluorescence measurement, and data analysis with advanced visualization techniques. Proficient in preparing custom growth media, maintaining good laboratory practices, and troubleshooting lab equipment such as photobioreactors and liquid handling robots. Other requirements include

• A PhD in biology with a focus on microalgae
• Experience working with microalgae and a good understanding of biological systems, cell biology, physiology of microorganisms
• Strong research publication track record
• Ability to secure competitive research grant