Research Fellow: Rare Disease, Circadian Medicine and Oral Health

Research Fellow in "Development of animal models of oral rare diseases and implementation of human studies for circadian oral and systemic disorders" Role type: Full-time; Fixed-term for 12 monthsFaculty: Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health SciencesDepartment/School: Melbourne Dental SchoolSalary: Level B - $124,656 - $148,023 p.a. plus 17% super Lead innovative research in rare orodental diseases / Integrate circadian biology with oral health / Develop precision diagnostics and treatments Apply now to drive cutting-edge research that will transform our understanding and treatment of rare orodental and craniofacial disorders Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities The University of Melbourne We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website. Your next career opportunity As a Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne's Precision Health Lab, you'll spearhead translational and clinical research on rare orodental disorders. You'll integrate molecular, epigenetic, and circadian regulatory networks to develop novel biomarkers and precision-guided treatments. This role offers you the chance to work at the forefront of craniofacial biology, combining preclinical models with patient-focused studies to revolutionize the diagnosis and management of rare oral conditions. Your responsibilities will include: Design Innovative Studies : Lead preclinical and clinical research in rare orodental and craniofacial diseases, focusing on circadian biology and oral phenotyping. Develop Biomarkers : Oversee biospecimen collection and analysis to discover and validate novel biomarkers in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid. Conduct Advanced Experiments : Utilize animal models, next-generation sequencing, advanced microscopy, and multi-omics approaches. Collaborate with Clinicians : Work closely with dental specialists to design and implement clinical protocols and longitudinal patient studies. Mentor Junior Researchers : Provide guidance and supervision to research staff and students while managing complex projects. You may be a great fit if: You are a passionate researcher with expertise in craniofacial biology and circadian rhythms, demonstrating a strong track record in both preclinical models and patient-focused clinical studies in oral health. You may also: Hold a Ph.D. with demonstrated expertise in chronobiology, orodental tissue biology, and molecular mechanisms of disease pathogenesis. Have proven expertise in advanced circadian research techniques, including animal disease models and multi-omics approaches. Demonstrate experience with patient-based or clinical cohort studies focused on oral health outcomes or rare orodental disorders. Show excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaborating with diverse teams and writing manuscripts and grants. Have the ability to work autonomously and exercise judgment in solving complex research problems. Have experience in clinical cohort studies or patient-based research (desirable). Demonstrate a strong commitment to collaboration with other institutes and clinicians. For further information please refer to the attached PD. What we offer you We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including: Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work‑life balance Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance Health and well‑being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program For more information check out our benefits page Your new team - Melbourne Dental School The Melbourne Dental School renowned for its excellence in dental and oral health education, clinical training, and translational research, with a strong tradition in dental research and an established international reputation in several research areas. Research in the School is an integral component of staff and student activities underpinning both the undergraduate and graduate curricula. The major research activities of the school are conducted via three Divisions and four major research groups, which range from translational biomedical science to clinical studies and pedagogical research. The School is equally committed to providing exceptional dental education and training. With a focus on innovative teaching methodologies and a student‑centred approach, the School offers a Bachelor of Oral Health, Doctor of Dental Surgery, and Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (multiple specialisations). The curricula are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become competent and ethical dental professionals. Be Yourself The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child‑safe organisation. We believe the diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Discover more about Diversity and Inclusion at UniMelb. We're committed to a barrier‑free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing reasonable adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. For assistance, please contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at (subject: “Recruitment Adjustments”). Contact details for other enquiries are located at the bottom of this page. Find more information for applicants requiring reasonable adjustments. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Our Indigenous strategy, Murmuk Djerring outlines our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at for further information and support. Visa sponsorship is available for this role. A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required for all positions. If successful, we'll guide you through the WWCC application process during onboarding and reimburse the cost. Join Us and unlock your career potential If this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents: Resume Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience The responses against the Selection Criteria (found in the Position Description) Learn more about the application process, including tips and FAQs. For recruitment queries, email Vanessa Phan at Include the Position Number and Job Title in the subject line. Please do not send applications to this email address. For job-specific queries, refer to the contact details in the Position Description. Applications close: 9 February 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone. Position Description: PD_Research Fellow_Rare Disease.docx #J-18808-Ljbffr