- Role to commence no earlier than 1 August 2026
- Full time opportunity
- Fixed Term for up to 3 years
- Level A Academic Research only
- Based at La Trobe University’s Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
- Work with inspiring people who are driven to make a difference
About the position
EPAS is seeking a Research Officer with expertise in sensory biology, capable of contributing to both field and laboratory components of an Australian Research Council funded project led by Dr Amanda Franklin. The project aims to uncover how animals with miniature brains can efficiently process multisensory stimuli. Using a powerful combination of techniques – high-resolution imaging, intracellular recordings and behavioural experiments – this project aims to uncover how beetles detect and respond to deep-red stimuli and infrared (heat) information. Results will provide new information about evolution and function of sensory systems and have the potential to unlock biological solutions for modern problems, including improved efficiency of sensors and image processing.
The Research Officer will lead field expeditions to collect insects, primarily based in the mallee regions of Australia (particularly Western Australia) and forests in North America or Europe. They will have the opportunity to contribute to anatomical (e.g. electron microscopy), physiological (e.g., electrophysiology), and/or behavioural experiments (e.g. field studies, controlled laboratory studies). The Research Officer will join a world-class team and benefit from collaboration and training with leading scientists across multiple institutions, including Dr Patricia Jusuf (University of Melbourne), Prof Gregor Belušič (University of Ljubljana), and Prof Kentaro Arikawa (Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI), with planned research visits to these groups during the project.
The role provides variety and flexibility. The successful candidate will be able to develop independent research directions, contribute to supervision of higher degree research students, analyse complex datasets, and lead the preparation of peer-reviewed publications. The research team highly values Open Science, collegiality, equity, diversity and inclusion.
Skills and Experience
To be considered for this position, you will have
- A completed or final stages of a PhD in sensory biology, neuroethology, physiology, entomology, behavioural ecology, or a closely related discipline. Please note, conferral date or expected graduation date in your cover letter. Must have completed and passed PhD prior to role commencement.
- Evidence of research experience in sensory physiology, microscopy or anatomical techniques, behavioral ecology, or insect ecology.
- Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyse biological data, and interpret results.
- A strong record of scientific writing, including lead authorship of publications in peer-reviewed international journals.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively, contributing to a positive and collegial research culture.
- Excellent organisational skills, including the ability to manage time, coordinate fieldwork, and meet research deadlines.
- Demonstrated experience conducting ecological fieldwork, including working in remote or challenging environments.
Welcome to Bundoora campus – Please click on the video link below:
https://f.io/KDo0ceng
Benefits:
- 17% employer contributed superannuation
- On site childcare facilities
- Flexible work arrangements
- Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses
How to apply
Closing date: By 11:55pm Sunday 1 February 2026
International applicants encouraged to apply. Visa application fee ONLY will covered by LTU, relocation assistance will not covered by LTU.
Position Enquiries: Amanda Franklin, Lecturer, Ecology
Email: A.Franklin@latrobe.edu.au
Recruitment Enquiries: Talent Acquisition Operations Officer, Yola El-hassanieh;
Email: Y.El-hassanieh@latrobe.edu.au
University closure between December 25, 2025 - January 4, 2026. Queries will be responded to in due course.
Please refer to the Position Description for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.
PD Research Officer.pdf
Please submit an online application ONLY and must include the following documents to be considered for this position:
- A Cover letter addressing your suitability for this position, and detailing your conferred PhD or expected date of PhD completion;
- An up to date resume; and
- Responses to the Key Selection Criteria dot points located in te PD under ‘Skills and Knowledge’
Please scroll down to apply.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants
We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates.
All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
Why La Trobe:
- Develop your career at an innovative, global university where you’ll collaborate with community and industry to create impact.
- Enjoy working on our inspiring and stunning campuses – the perfect hub for industry, students and academics
- Help transform the lives of students, partners and communities now and in the future
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