Postdoctoral Research Fellow

The Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Group at the Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR) is looking for a motivated researcher to join our brain tumour research program, with a particular focus on Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG) and Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).

Our research aims to better understand why these aggressive brain tumours are difficult to treat and to identify new approaches that can improve the effectiveness of radiation therapy and other treatments.

The group works across cancer biology, genetics, immunology, tumour metabolism, hypoxia and treatment resistance. We also undertake pre-clinical radiation and drug testing, drug screening and studies using pre-clinical models of glioblastoma and DMG. A key aim of our work is to identify promising treatments that can ultimately progress towards clinical trials.

About the Role

• The Mikalya Vibes Research Fellow will develop and lead research focused on the biological and clinical basis of DMG, with a particular emphasis on improving treatment outcomes.
• The role requires someone who can work independently, develop new research ideas and build collaborations across research and clinical disciplines. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop an independent research program and contribute to the broader goals of the Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Group.
• Depending on experience and research track record, the position may be offered at the level of Postdoctoral Research Scientist, Research Scientist or Senior Research Scientist.
• The position reports to the Program Lead of the Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Group.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Develop and lead research projects focused on DMG/DIPG and translational cancer research.
• Design and conduct pre-clinical studies investigating tumour biology and treatment response.
• Identify new research opportunities relevant to radiation therapy and cancer treatment.
• Develop collaborations with researchers, clinicians, hospitals and industry partners.
• Prepare research grant applications and contribute to securing competitive funding.
• Manage research projects, laboratory resources and research budgets.
• Supervise and mentor students, postdoctoral researchers and other research staff.
• Publish research findings in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to the translation of research findings towards clinical applications.
• Contribute to WIMR committees, research activities and the broader research community.
• Work in accordance with WIMR requirements for research integrity, ethics, safety, equity and inclusion.

Skills and Experience

We are seeking a researcher with:

• A PhD or equivalent qualification in cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, immunology or a related biomedical field.
• At least two years of postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience independently conducting animal experiments and pre-clinical research.
• A strong publication record appropriate to career stage.
• Experience developing and managing research projects independently.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior researchers.
• The ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary research teams.
• Experience developing research collaborations, particularly in cancer or translational research.
• Experience applying for competitive research funding, with external funding experience expected for more senior appointments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to work effectively with academic, clinical and industry collaborators.
• Experience in brain tumour research, radiation biology, tumour biology, treatment resistance or translational oncology would be highly relevant to the position.

About the Research Environment

• The Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Group is part of WIMR's broader cancer research program. Our research brings together laboratory-based cancer biology with pre-clinical treatment studies, with the aim of developing findings that can ultimately benefit patients.
• The group works closely with researchers and clinicians across WIMR, the Westmead Health Precinct, affiliated hospitals, universities and external research partners.
• This provides an opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment with access to clinical expertise, research infrastructure and specialist core facilities.

About WIMR

The Westmead Institute for Medical Research conducts research aimed at addressing major health challenges and improving patient outcomes. Our research spans cancer, neurological conditions, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, infectious diseases and other areas of health.

WIMR works closely with hospitals, universities and industry partners to move research discoveries from the laboratory towards clinical application.

What We Value

• We value scientific excellence, integrity, collaboration, respect and inclusion.
• We support an environment where researchers can develop their ideas, work across disciplines and contribute to the development of future research leaders.

This position provides an opportunity for a researcher with an interest in DMG and translational cancer research to develop an independent research program while working within an established radiation biology and oncology research team.

Initial appointment: 12 months, with potential for renewal and longer-term appointment.