The Faculty of Science is a leading provider of education across the spectrum of the sciences. It offers a diverse range of specialisations, research programs and facilities, and an extensive liaison with international institutions. The School of Biological Sciences is a core part of the Faculty dedicated to producing world-class research teaching and research programs in Biology.

The School is currently seeking a results-driven Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct research into a project that will determine the mechanisms by which ants and honeybees solve dynamic problems when foraging. This will be achieved through the use of experiments in which ant and honeybee colonies are confronted with food sources that change in quality, disappear or (re-)appear.

This project is part of a larger interdisciplinary project funded by the Human Frontier Science Program Optimization in natural systems: ants, bees and slime moulds. The aim of this project is to understand solution construction mechanisms in biological systems by studying the processes that underlie the ability of natural systems (ants, bees and slime moulds) to adapt to changing conditions.


This is a unique opportunity for the appointee to become part of an interdisciplinary research team spread over four different countries: Australia (ants and bees), Sweden (mathematics), Germany (computer science) and Japan (slime moulds).

To succeed, the appointee will have a relevant PhD, an interest in evolution, and experience in animal behaviour. A background handling ants and/or honeybees will be highly advantageous, as will an ability to attract grant funding.

This role is suited to an innovative and mature individual who is capable to self-manage their workload. Joining a team of international scientists, the appointee will benefit from training available in interdisciplinary research in problem solving and potentially take on a leadership role that will shape the future direction of the project.

The position is full-time fixed term for three years, subject to the completion of a satisfactory probation period for new appointees. Membership of a University approved superannuation scheme is a condition of employment for new appointees.

Remuneration will be commensurate with the applicants experience and qualifications.

Remuneration package: $73,772 - $79,190 (which includes a base salary Level A $62,339 - $66,917 p.a., leave loading and up to 17% employers contribution to superannuation)

Remuneration package: $83,363 - $98,993 p.a. (which includes a base salary Lecturer Level B $70,443 - $83,651 p.a., leave loading and up to 17% employers contribution to superannuation)

Contact: All applications must be completed online; please visit http://positions.usyd.edu.au and search by reference number 101485. Specific enquiries about the role can be directed to Fabrice Noël on (+61 2) 9036 7295.