Postdoctoral Research Fellow - 3 year fixed term - School of Chemical Sciences

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our multidisciplinary team developing a novel multiplex biosensing platform for biomarkers, designed to be adaptable across multiple sectors. This innovative platform will enable rapid in-field testing and point-of-care diagnostics, removing the need for complex fluid handling, specialised equipment, or highly skilled operation.

To demonstrate the platform’s versatility, we will develop prototype devices across three key applications:

• Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease
• Multi-drug detection for workplace and roadside testing
• Quality control in winemaking through rapid, on-site analysis

These applications directly address pressing needs identified by our industry partners, including winemakers, forensic toxicologists, clinicians, and police, each highlighting the demand for diagnostic tools that are user-friendly, accurate, and rapid, thereby enabling timely and informed decision-making.

Ngā Haepapa Matua | Key Responsibilities (not limited too):

• Develop and integrate biomolecular recognition elements for targeted analytes.
• Design, fabricate, and test microfluidic biosensing devices for biomarker detection.
• Collaborate across disciplines to optimise device performance and validation.
• Engage with industry partners to translate research outcomes into practical applications.
• Contribute to publications, patents, and the dissemination of research outcomes.

For more information on the role, please view the Position Description 

This is a full-time (40 hrs per week), 3-year fixed-term role

The remuneration is from $99,788 per annum, and will be dependent on skills and experience

He kōrero mōu | About you

We are seeking applicants who have:

Essential

• A PhD in Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following: biosensors, microfluidics, electrochemistry, or analytical device development.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication skills and a track record of research excellence (e.g., publications, presentations).

Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team

You will be joining a collaborative research group bringing together experts in microfluidics, synthetic chemistry, biomolecular design, and biosensor development, building on established intellectual property in these technologies. The project spans multiple institutions and international partners, combining strengths in research, translation, and commercialisation.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities. 

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services. 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 25th January 2026 to be considered.

The application must include:

• Cover Letter and CV, including a list of publications and preprints, a summary of teaching and service contributions, and the names of some people who can provide academic references.

Please contact Jadranka Travas-Sejdic (Professor, Chemical Sciences) at [email protected] for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.