About the Role

The Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA) is seeking a visionary senior researcher to lead a pioneering program investigating bioenergetic insufficiency as a driver of neurodegeneration in optic nerve diseases, particularly glaucoma. This role offers the opportunity to translate fundamental discoveries into clinical interventions that preserve vision and improve patient outcomes.

About the Team

At CERA, we are dedicated to advancing eye research that has real-world impact. Our collaborative environment brings together clinicians, scientists, and industry partners to tackle the most pressing challenges in eye health. We value innovation, excellence, and a commitment to improving lives through research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Innovative Research: Develop and direct a cutting-edge research program focused on the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and bioenergetic deficits in optic nerve neurodegeneration.
• Translational Focus: Drive the translation of laboratory findings into clinical applications, including the development of neuroprotective therapies for glaucoma and related conditions.
• Collaborative Engagement: Foster interdisciplinary collaborations within CERA and with external partners to enhance research impact and facilitate the progression from bench to bedside.
• Mentorship and Leadership: Provide mentorship to emerging researchers and contribute to the strategic direction of CERA's research initiatives.
• Funding and Dissemination: Secure competitive research funding and disseminate findings through high-impact publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential

• Academic Qualifications: PhD in neuroscience, ophthalmology, or a related field, with a strong publication record in top-tier journals.
• Research Expertise: Demonstrated expertise in mitochondrial biology, neurodegeneration, and bioenergetics, particularly as they relate to optic nerve diseases.
• Translational Experience: Proven track record in translating basic research into clinical applications, including involvement in clinical trials or therapeutic development.
• Leadership Skills: Experience leading multidisciplinary research teams and managing complex research projects.
• Communication Abilities: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Desirable

• Commercialisation Experience: Experience in the commercialisation of research findings and collaboration with industry partners.
• International Collaboration: Established international collaborations and recognition in the field of neurodegeneration and ophthalmology.

About CERA

The Centre for Eye Research Australia is an independent medical research institute affiliated with the University of Melbourne. Located in East Melbourne, CERA is at the forefront of eye research, striving to eliminate vision loss and blindness through innovation and collaboration.

Employee Benefits

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Supportive of work-life balance with flexible working options.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
• Salary Packaging: Generous salary packaging options to increase take-home pay.
• Health and Wellbeing: Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), annual flu vaccinations, and regular wellness initiatives.

How to Apply

Please submit your current resume and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and suitability for the position. Applications will be accepted until 11:59pm 4 June 2025.

For more information about the role, please contact [email protected] using the subject line: Senior Researcher - Mitochondrial Neuroprotection in Optic Neuropathies (Level E) enquiry via EthicalJobs.

CERA is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, people with CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, people from the LGBTQIA+ community, and women and gender-diverse people.

If you require an adjustment to the recruitment and selection process or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our HR team.