Lecturer in Synthetic Chemistry

Category: Academic Level B

Salary: $117,226 – $139,207 plus 17% superannuation plus annual leave loading

Position: Full-time, Continuing

Location: Callaghan Campus

About the Role

The School of Science at the University of Newcastle is seeking a Lecturer in Synthetic Chemistry to contribute meaningfully to our mission of delivering excellence in education, research, and professional service. Working within the Discipline of Chemistry, you will take a leading role in establishing a sustainable research program that complements areas of existing research strength.

You will contribute to undergraduate teaching in key areas, with a primary focus on organic and analytical chemistry, as well as first year courses in general chemistry. This role requires a research track record commensurate with experience, and a clear vision for evolving a successful future research and innovation portfolio.

You will be joining a community of professionals who are passionate about creating a better future for our regions and the world. You will be supported by a dynamic and inclusive workplace culture that encourages growth, innovation, and meaningful impact.

About you

You are dedicated and forward-thinking with expertise in synthetic chemistry, ready to contribute to a thriving academic environment.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A PhD in Chemistry or equivalent relevant field, with specialisation in synthetic chemistry.
• Demonstrated record of publication or non-traditional research output in high-quality outlets including evidence of international and national research collaborations and/or partnerships.
• Demonstrated recent ability to achieve national recognition in the discipline and taking a chief investigator role (often in conjunction with more experienced researchers) in applications for external research funds.
• Skills in active supervision of Honours, Masters and/or Higher Degree by Research postgraduate research projects.
• Demonstrate recent ability to undertake high quality teaching as indicated by internal and external surveys and outcomes for students.
• Demonstrate recent ability to contribute at undergraduate, Honours and postgraduate levels, taking responsibility for the preparation and delivery of course modules and coordinating one or more courses, including collaboration in curriculum design and delivery where appropriate.

For the full list of essential and desirable selection criteria, please review the Position Description.

If you’re ready to join a university that’s committed to equity and excellence, and to contribute to a community that values your expertise and vision, we encourage you to apply.

About Us

The School of Science at the University of Newcastle is a dynamic and multidisciplinary academic community committed to solving the world’s most pressing environmental and biological challenges. The School provides a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate study options in areas such as biology, chemistry, environmental management, food science and nutrition, geology, climate science, marine and coastal studies and psychology.

The Discipline of Chemistry is committed to excellence in both research and teaching & learning. The Discipline contributes to the Bachelor of Science program by offering a RACI-Accredited Chemistry major focused on Advanced Materials, Medicinal and Organic chemistry, while also providing service teaching for multiple other degree programs. The Discipline is highly research active, contributing substantially to the overall research inputs and outputs of the School and College.

Our university

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader with a reputation for excellence in education and research. Ranking in the top 1% of global universities and among the top 40 for impact, our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and create a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. Our Looking Ahead 2030 Strategic Plan outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities.

We are proud to be one of the first two Universities in Australia to achieve SAGE Athena Swan Silver Accreditation for gender equity, diversity, and inclusion (GEDI). 

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas and extend respect to Elders past and present. We are committed to strengthening Indigenous higher education and supporting Indigenous students and communities.

For more information click here – The University of Newcastle

What we offer

The university offers a comprehensive and inclusive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing, career development, and work-life balance for all staff, including:

• 17% superannuation, access to salary packaging options and annual leave loading
• Generous leave entitlements, including:
• Additional University holidays
• Life Leave to support personal and family needs
• Cultural Leave
• Parental leave and support for carers
• Wellbeing and support programs that promote mental, physical, and emotional health
• Career development opportunities

For further information on our benefits and perks, please visit our website.

How to Apply

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can review the full Position Description and submit your application.  

Your application must include:

• Your ORCID ID.
• A URL link to your University Academic Profile (or equivalent).
• A Cover Letter and Statement (uploaded as a single PDF):
• Cover Letter (max. 1 page) outlining your interest in the role and providing details of 3 referees.
• Statement (max. 4 pages) addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria, as listed in the position description. 
• Your CV (max. 5 pages) tailored to your discipline

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. It’s important you read this information to ensure you are providing all the requirements of your application. 

Additional Information

For specific position enquiries, please contact Dr Robert Chapman, Senior Lecturer, School of Science at Robert.Chapman@newcastle.edu.au or on (02) 4985 4260.

Our assessment process

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

Reasonable Adjustments 

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application, please let us know. This information will help us understand how best to support you and ensure an equitable and inclusive recruitment process. 

Please be assured that anything you share will be treated respectfully and appropriately. Our goal is to provide the best environment for every candidate to demonstrate their suitable skills and experience.

Please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au if you are experiencing any difficulties or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments.

Application close date: Sunday 9 August 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you!

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

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