The Palaeodiet Research Lab is seeking to expand its existing excellence in the area of Biological Anthropology through a new appointment of a postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in dental histology. This position is linked to the Australian Research Council Discovery Project titled “From foraging to farming: Human adaptations during major transitions” (DP2401011081), where we are planning to reconstruct the diet, health and lifestyle of human populations from the Mediterranean area that lived through the Neolithic Revolution. The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to help in establishing a new laboratory in dental histology and to carry out leading-edge research in this specific area. The successful applicant should have already experience in dental histology and histomorphometry, preferably in human samples, and has demonstrated the ability to publish in high-ranked journals in the field of Anthropology, Biology and Archaeology. This position offers the opportunity to work in a highly dynamic environment and to interact with scientists from Monash University and with research collaborators from the University of Bologna, Tel Aviv University, La Sapienza University of Rome and from Southern Cross University. It is anticipated that the appointee will help with the supervision of PhD and Honours students and will assist with the organisation of an intensive training workshop in using dental anthropological methods. This position will be for three years and will have no teaching obligations.

Key responsibilities • The conduct of research under limited supervision either as a member of a team or, where appropriate, independently and the production or contribution to the production of conference and seminar papers and publications from that research • Involvement in professional activities including, subject to availability of funds, attendance at conferences and seminars in the field of expertise • Experimental design and operation of advanced laboratory and technical equipment or conduct of advanced research procedures • Attendance at meetings associated with research or the work of the organisational unit to which the research is connected and/or at departmental, school and/or faculty meetings and/or membership of a limited number of committees • Advice within the field of the staff member's research to postgraduate students • Supervise postgraduate and honours research projects • Other duties as directed from time to time

Key selection criteria • A doctorate qualification in Biological Anthropology, Archaeology or closely related discipline • Demonstrated analytical and manuscript preparation skills; including a track record of refereed research publications • Ability to solve complex problems by using discretion, innovation and the exercise diagnostic skills and/or expertise • Well-developed planning and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise multiple tasks and set and meet deadlines • Excellent written communication and verbal communication skills with proven ability to produce clear, succinct reports and documents • A demonstrated capacity to work in a collegiate manner with other staff in the workplace • Demonstrated computer literacy and proficiency in the production of high level work using software such as Microsoft Office applications and specified university software programs, with the capability and willingness to learn new packages as appropriate • Research experience in dental histology, histomorphometry and with tooth thin section preparation • Knowledge of dental tissue microstructure and dental morphology • Experience in working with transmitted light microscopy

Terms and conditions We offer a fixed-term position (full-time) of three years starting around August 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter. Diversity is one of our greatest strengths at Monash. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people with disabilities, neurodiverse people, and people of all genders, sexualities, and age groups. The salary range for a postdoctoral researcher (Level A Step 3) starts from $98,769 (AUD) per year, plus 17% superannuation contribution.

Application and deadline Complete the online application (link) and upload the following separate documents:

• Curriculum vitae, including education, employment history, publications and other skills relevant for the position • A letter of interest describing how you meet the selection criteria (1-2 pages maximum) • Names, positions and email addresses of two referees

Please refer to "How to apply for Monash Jobs".

Enquiries For specific questions about the position please contact Associate Professor Luca Fiorenza ([email protected])

Closing date Applications must be received by Sunday 31 March 2024, 11:55 pm AEDT. Interviews will be held online in April.