Postdoctoral Fellow - Protein Crystallisation in Microgravity

Kura Hanga Otinga | School of Product DesignTe Kura Pūhanga | Faculty of EngineeringLocated in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New ZealandFull-time 37.5 hours per weekFixed term (2 years) positionSalary range $80,000 - $85,000Kia hiwa rā, kia hiwa rā!He hiahia, he pūkenga nōu ki te mahi a Postdoctoral Fellow? Nāia te pōwhiri nā Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha kia tono mai i te tūranga nei.Āu Mahi | What You Will DoOur Microgravity Research team is offering an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Fellow to contribute to our MBIE-funded research programme developing protein crystallisation facilities for space stations.We seek a highly motivated individual with a research background in protein crystallisation, X-ray crystallography, and protein biochemistry. In this role you will undertake research to develop high-throughput protein crystal screening experimentation in microgravity. Specifically, you will work to develop and validate methods for high-throughput protein crystal screening for a wide range of proteins and perform X-ray crystallography and structure determination of resulting protein crystals. The fellowship is externally funded for 2 years. You will have completed a PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, or a closely related subject.To be successful in this role you will have excellent communication skills and written English, strong quantitative and data analysis skills, the ability to work creatively and independently, and a strong research background.You will be mentored by A/Prof Sarah Kessans and located within the School of Product Design. The position will also involve extensive collaboration with project partners across New Zealand and the United States of America.Mōu | Who You AreTo be successful in this position you will ideally have the following:a PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, or a related discipline.expertise across protein biochemistry, protein crystallisation, and X-ray crystallography is essentialexpertise in protein crystal screening is essentialexpertise in macromolecular X-ray crystallography data collection and structure determination is essentialexpertise with microfluidics systems is an advantagestrong quantitative and data analysis skillsa publication track record as well as experience with preparation and delivery of quality oral presentations to a wide range of audiences is essentiala proven ability to communicate complex ideas and concepts (both orally and in writing) to a wide variety or groups including scientific and non-scientific audiencesthe ability to work creatively and independently.Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work WithThe School of Product Design is committed to excellence in teaching, research and creative practice at the forefront of product design, and producing versatile, innovative graduates who can contribute to New Zealand's future economic growth and social wellbeing. We aim to continually improve our teaching and research programmes by attracting and retaining highly-skilled academic and support staff, expanding our facilities, and growing our national and international links with other leading design schools and employers.For more information about the School of Product Design and our team, please visit us here.Ngā Painga o UC | Why UCTangata Tū, Tangata Ora - Engaged, Empowered, Making a Difference.The University of Canterbury is committed to accessible higher education, service to community and the encouragement of talent without barriers of distance, wealth, class, gender or ethnicity. The University explicitly aims to produce graduates and support staff who are engaged with their communities, empowered to act for good and determined to make a difference in the world.What We OfferFlexible working arrangementsSupportive working environmentGenerous annual leave provisions and competitive salaryProfessional development opportunitiesA unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to UC facilities such as the recreation centre and Staff club at discounted rates plus onsite café’s and eateries, and moreFor more information, please visit: http://www.canterbury.ac.nz/joinusFor more information about Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, please visit www.canterbury.ac.nzThe closing date for this position is: Sunday, 7 December 2025 (midnight, NZ time)Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place before the Close Date.Pēhea te tono mai | How You ApplyApplications for this position must be submitted on our careers website and should include a cover letter and resume. Please note, we do not accept applications by email, however we are happy to answer your queries in relation to the application process, please forward these to WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nzFor further information specifically about the role, please contact: Associate Professor Sarah Kessans, sarah.kessans@canterbury.ac.nz to discuss the opportunities associated with this position.For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website, to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand.