Associate Professor of Molecular Diagnostics

• Build world-class partnerships with industry and government
• Shape solutions for agriculture, biosecurity and the environment
• Access purpose-built molecular research facilities and infrastructure

The role

• Full Time, Fixed Term (5 years from appointment)
• Level D - $167,348 to $184,243 pa (plus 17% superannuation)
• On site: Albury-Wodonga

Join Charles Sturt University's Gulbali Institute and lead the development of a nationally recognised molecular diagnostics research program addressing some of Australia's most significant agricultural, environmental and biosecurity challenges. This is a rare opportunity to establish and grow a cutting-edge capability applying molecular ecology, environmental DNA (eDNA) and emerging molecular technologies to deliver practical outcomes for communities, industry and government.

Working within a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment, you'll secure competitive research funding, build strategic partnerships and mentor the next generation of researchers. Backed by significant investment in purpose-built molecular laboratories and research infrastructure, you'll help shape the future of applied molecular diagnostics while strengthening the University's reputation as a leader in regional and globally relevant research. Success in this role will be reflected in the lasting research capability, partnerships and environmental impact you create.

About you

• You are an ambitious and collaborative research leader who is driven to build a nationally recognised research program with lasting environmental and societal impact.
• You have a proven ability to attract competitive research funding and develop sustainable partnerships across government, industry and the research sector.
• You thrive on building and mentoring high-performing, inclusive research teams, creating opportunities for the next generation of researchers to succeed.
• You are passionate about translating molecular science into practical solutions that inform environmental policy, biosecurity and natural resource management.
• You bring a strong track record of scientific excellence and are motivated to grow Charles Sturt University's reputation as a leader in applied molecular diagnostics through innovation, collaboration and research impact.

About us

We are a university of the land and people of our regions. True to the character of regional Australia we have gumption, we have soul and we collaborate with others. We develop holistic, far-sighted people who help their communities grow and flourish.

The Wiradjuri phrase yindyamarra winhanganha means the wisdom of respectfully knowing how to live well in a world worth living in. This phrase represents who we are at Charles Sturt University – our ethos. It comes from traditional Indigenous Australian knowledge, but it also speaks to the mission of universities – to develop and spread wisdom to make the world a better place.

Harnessing technology, we thrive as a distributed yet connected community, welcoming and engaging with people across Australia and the world.

Learn more about the Gulbali Institute here.

Visit our website to learn about our great range of employee benefits.

Charles Sturt University is committed to building a diverse workforce as shown through our Athena Swan Bronze Award, our Australian Workplace Equality Index Bronze Award and our membership of a range of diversity focused organisations including Diversity Council Australia and Pride in Diversity. We encourage applications from First Nations people, carers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, neurodivergent people, and people of all age groups, genders and sexualities for all roles.

To apply

Click the Apply button and complete your application online, submit a 2 page “statement of suitability” demonstrating your skills, knowledge and/or experience relevant to the position (referencing the selection criteria in the position description) and upload your CV. If you experience difficulties applying online or for further information on completing the application process please visit our how to apply page or contact us.

This position is open to Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents; or applicants who hold a current valid work visa commensurate with this position.

Further information

Additional information is available in the position description or by contacting:

Job specific enquiries: Professor Lee Baumgartner | Executive Director, Gulbali Institute | lbaumgartner@csu.edu.au

Closing Date: 11pm, 27 August 2026