THE ROLE
An exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral research fellow exists in the School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University and Loop Hydrometallurgy. This project will be undertaken alongside Loop Hydrometallurgy, a fast-growing startup operating out of the Macquarie University DeepTech Incubator. Loop is developing clean minerals processing technology to unlock Australia’s vast critical minerals resources. We are seeking a qualified postdoctoral research fellow to join a team with an international reputation for producing high quality research outcomes in the area of hydrometallurgy.
The successful candidate will undertake an 18-month research project for the application of ion exchange technology to a unique hydrometallurgical process. This could include (but not necessarily be limited to identification/development of:
suitable ion exchange resins for the extraction of target metals from process liquors;
suitable washing and elution protocols;
recovery processes for the metal(s) from the IX eluates;
multi-cycle load-wash-elution performance;
IX resin rejuvenation;
scale up from laboratory size for commercial application.
We very much look forward to hearing from applicants who have demonstrated excellence in their past research, have several of the technical skills required to match the demands of this project, and who are keen to engage in a project that involves collaboration with academic and industry partners.
About Us
The Faculty of Science and Engineering is a young and dynamic faculty driven by the spirit of discovery. Here we nurture the next generation of science and technology innovators. From a handful of students on the University’s first day, the Faculty now serves over 8,000 students across all our courses.
The School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University was established on 1 January 2022 through the amalgamation of the Departments of Biological Sciences, Molecular Sciences, and Earth and Environmental Sciences. The School is the largest in the Faculty of Science and Engineering and is a vibrant community of educators, researchers and students working across a wide range of biological, biomolecular, biomedical, chemical, environmental and geoscience disciplines.
Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation in 1964, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
How to Apply
To be considered for this position, applicants must address the selection criteria below in a separate document and attach their CV (which includes a list of two referees), a statement of research interests and achievements.
Essential Selection Criteria
A PhD in inorganic chemistry or a related discipline and/or relevant experience with combination of qualifications and skills;
A track record in self-managed research;
Previous experience in ion exchange process development;
Previous experience with chloride hydrometallurgy;
Demonstrated capacity to work independently and as part of a team;
Excellent oral and written communication skills; and
Possess an ability for analytical thinking and independent problem solving.
Note: Applicants must have valid work rights in Australia for the duration of the employment
Specific role enquiries: Dave Sammut at dave@loophydromet.com.au
For general enquiries: A/Prof. Koushik Venkatesan at koushik.venkatesan@mq.edu.au
Submission of Applications Open Until: Thursday 8 January 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (AEDT)
*** Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date. We also reserve the right to close the advertisement early if a sufficient number of qualified applicants is received.
Why Work at Macquarie?
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability.
Our prime location is just a short walk from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre. Enjoy the benefits of working at a campus that offers:
17% Superannuation
Subsidised onsite parking options
Flexible working options
Training and professional development
Onsite childcare facilities
Discounted health insurance (Medibank)
Onsite vacation care
Employee Assistance Program
Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.
Applications Close:
08/01/2026 11:59 PM
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.