Job Reference: 1700867

Are you a researcher with expertise in microbiology, biogeochemistry, geomicrobiology or mineral–microbe interactions? Join an innovative research project investigating how microbial processes can transform chrysotile and other magnesium-rich silicate asbestos minerals into more stable, less hazardous forms.

About the Role:
The Research Associate will contribute to the Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Project Microbial Detoxification of Chrysotile, led by Dr Navdeep K. Dhami, Senior Lecturer at Curtin University. Bringing together microbiology, geochemistry and mineral science, the project investigates how microbial communities, biofilms and microbial metabolic pathways influence the transformation of chrysotile and other magnesium-rich silicate asbestos minerals into more stable, less hazardous forms.

Working with the project lead and research collaborators, you will design and conduct experiments to investigate the biochemical, microbiological and molecular mechanisms underpinning microbial asbestos degradation, including mineral dissolution, elemental cycling and the formation of secondary mineral phases.

Your research will advance fundamental understanding of microbial mineral weathering and biomineralisation while exploring the potential of magnesium-rich transformation products for carbon dioxide (CO₂) capture and mineral carbonation. This interdisciplinary opportunity sits at the intersection of mineral transformation, environmental remediation and climate research, with the potential to contribute to safer asbestos management and remediation and broader net-zero emissions objectives.

Your responsibilities will include:

- Designing and conducting experiments to investigate microbial weathering mechanisms and reaction kinetics at the molecular level.
- Investigating microbe–mineral interactions and the biochemical, microbiological and molecular processes associated with asbestos mineral transformation.
- Characterising mineral transformation pathways and contributing to research on biomineralisation and mineral carbonation.
- Publishing research outcomes in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals and other appropriate research outlets.
- Disseminating research findings through academic seminars, workshops and conferences.
- Providing effective supervision to Honours, research Master’s and doctoral students.
- Contributing to competitive research funding applications as a co-investigator or chief investigator, as appropriate.
- Developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with researchers, professional bodies, industry, government departments and the wider community.
- Contributing to a collegial, supportive and inclusive research environment, as well as relevant academic service, leadership and administrative activities.
- Participating in appropriate professional development and mentoring opportunities.

Who We Are Looking For (Selection Criteria):
You are a capable and collaborative researcher with a strong foundation in relevant scientific disciplines and a demonstrated commitment to high-quality research. You can plan and conduct experimental investigations, communicate research findings effectively and contribute to multidisciplinary research teams.

To be successful in this role, you will also satisfy the following Essential Criteria:

1. A PhD (or with no more than ~6 months until completion at the time of interview) in Microbiology, Biogeochemistry, Geology, Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
2. Experience in microbial culturing and molecular identification techniques.
3. Experience with microscopic,



elemental and mineralogical characterisation techniques.
4. A strong record of research outputs in high-quality, Q1-ranked peer-reviewed journals or equivalent discipline-appropriate research outlets.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
6. The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Role Requirements:

- As this is a fixed-term contract, you will require current work rights in Australia that match the tenure of this role.
- Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction.
- Interstate and/or overseas travel may be required.
- Work outside normal office hours may occasionally be necessary.

Your new Team:
You’ll join the School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, working with Dr Navdeep K. Dhami and a collaborative team of researchers across environmental biogeotechnology, microbiology, geochemistry and mineral science.

Led by Dr Dhami, the ARC Discovery Project brings together expertise in microbial–mineral interactions, biomineralisation and geochemical processes to investigate innovative approaches to asbestos detoxification and safer disposal. The project also involves research collaborators Professor Allan Pring and Professor Carlos Rodriguez-Navarro, bringing complementary expertise in mineral science and mineral transformation.

You’ll be part of an interdisciplinary research environment tackling an important environmental challenge, advancing fundamental scientific knowledge while exploring opportunities for safer asbestos management and carbon capture.

To learn more about the school, please visit https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/learning-teaching/science-engineering/school-of-civil-mechanical-engineering/.

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace:
At Curtin University, we are passionate about fostering an inclusive, diverse and welcoming environment in which all people feel respected, valued and safe. Curtin is dedicated to promoting gender equity and inclusivity in all areas. We are proud of our achievements to date and recognise that there is more to do to improve employment outcomes for women and people of diverse gender identities, particularly in STEMM disciplines.

As an Athena SWAN accredited institution, we celebrate diversity and actively work to advance the representation of women and gender-diverse people in STEMM areas and empower individuals so they can thrive in their careers through a range of supportive initiatives, including leadership training, mentorship for early career progression and promotion, networking opportunities, and other professional development resources.

As reflected in the Athena Swan Charter, gender equality is a broader issue that extends beyond barriers affecting women alone, and we are committed to addressing these challenges holistically.

Additionally, we offer staff a competitive remuneration and benefits package, including but not limited to:

- 17% superannuation, plus a variety of salary packaging options.
- Paid Parental leave (26 weeks for the primary caregiver and 3 weeks for non-primary) subject to eligibility criteria outlined in the Enterprise Agreement; personal leave (14 days)



and annual leave (20 days)
- Enjoy 12 Public Holidays each year (including Easter Tuesday!), and 2 extra University Days over the Christmas/New Year Period (see EBA 51.1 and 51.9).
- Breastfeeding facilities and campus-based childcare (where priority of placement is given to Curtin staff and students)
- Flexible work arrangements including return to work provisions
- On-campus medical centre
- Academic Carer Support Scheme and other diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives detailed via the below link.

We believe that diverse perspectives fuel innovation and drive excellence, and we encourage women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of diverse gender, sex and sexuality, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to join us in shaping the future of STEMM together and making tomorrow better.

To find out more about our comprehensive diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives, please visit https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/values-vision-strategy/diversity-equity/gender-equity-and-inclusion/

About Curtin University
Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2026 rankings. We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page - https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-curtin/

What We Offer You:
This two-year fixed term, full-time ALA level role attracts a remuneration of $104,165 - $115 ,862 (ALA.5 – ALA.8) + 17% superannuation.

Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and a variety food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.

For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/

Join Us!
If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:

- Up-to-date Resume
- Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
- A document addressing the selection criteria for the role (noted above)

If you have any queries in relation to this prospect or the application process, please contact our careers team on *************@curtin.edu.au or 08 9266 90***(option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Applications will not be accepted via this email address, and late applications will not be accepted.

Applications close: 8pm (AWST), Wednesday, 11 November 2026

Please note we are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies at this time.

Curtin reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw from the recruitment process, remove the advert, not to make an appointment, or to appoint by invitation, at any time.

📌 Research Associate (Bentley)
🏢 Curtin University
📍 Bentley