• Based in College of Engineering, Information and Technology at the Adelaide CBD Campus
• Full-time, 12-month fixed term contract
• Salary Range: Level A (from step 6 - step 8), $102,024 - $109,307 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive. 

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters 

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research focused on advancing next-generation drug delivery technologies to improve the treatment of complex diseases and enhance patient outcomes.

Our team is undertaking innovative research at the intersection of biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences and nanomedicine, exploring novel approaches to targeted therapeutic delivery. Through collaboration across disciplines, we are developing advanced biomaterials and delivery platforms designed to overcome biological barriers and improve the precision, safety and effectiveness of emerging therapies.

In this role, you will contribute to a dynamic research program focused on the design, development and optimisation of innovative therapeutic delivery systems. Working alongside a multidisciplinary team of researchers, students and external collaborators, you will play a key role in advancing high-impact research, contributing to publications and research translation, and helping to shape future directions in this rapidly evolving field.

This opportunity is ideal for an emerging researcher with expertise in nanomedicine, biomaterials or drug delivery, who is passionate about scientific innovation, enjoys working in collaborative research environments, and is motivated to translate discovery into meaningful health outcomes.

The team 

This role will sit within the School of Chemical Engineering, in the College of Engineering and Information Technology. This role will have several stakeholder relationships, including the wider research team, internal and external stakeholders both nationally and internationally, as well as academic and professional staff across the University.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the School of Chemical Engineering.

Our people  

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

We are a dynamic and collaborative team working on nationally and internationally significant projects that address complex and impactful health questions.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience 

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will have the following skills and experience: 

Essential:

• A PhD in biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and characterisation, including encapsulation of nucleic acids (mRNA or siRNA).
• Proven experience in design and chemical synthesis of novel lipids and peptides, including pH-responsive and/or enzyme-responsive peptides for biomedical applications.
• Solid understanding of endosomal escape mechanisms and intracellular trafficking relevant to RNA delivery systems.
• A demonstrated track record of conducting high-quality, impactful research in a multidisciplinary environment, and evidence of publishing research in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with proven experience in collaborating with external agencies, industry stakeholders, and multidisciplinary research teams.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively to achieve project objectives, mentor students, and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Commitment to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, and ability to contribute to the diversity of the School community.

Desirable:

• Experience in confocal microscopy or flow cytometry techniques for studying intracellular delivery and endosomal escape.
• Knowledge of virus-inspired or biomimetic drug delivery strategies, including understanding of viral cell entry and endosomal escape mechanisms.
• Familiarity with microfluidics-based nanoparticle synthesis platforms and high-throughput screening approaches for LNP optimisation.
• Proven experience in leading research projects and co-supervising postgraduate students, demonstrating strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
  
  

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity 

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.  

Launch your future with Adelaide University now 

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload: 

• your current CV 
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role 

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address. 

Submit your application by 11:30pm Sunday 2 August 2026.

Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493220): 

Amra Delibasic
Talent Acquisition Adviser – Talent Acquisition
People and Culture
+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au 

Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.