ARC Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Philosophy of Biology)

About the role

Macquarie University is recruiting an ARC Postdoctoral Research Fellow for its ARC Discovery Project on Health, Biological Fitness and Environmental Diversity. The fellow works with Dr Bourrat (Macquarie University, Philosophy), Professor Raubenheimer (University of Sydney, Charles Perkins Centre), Emeritus Professor Griffiths (University of Sydney and Macquarie University, Philosophy) and collaborators to build a framework for understanding how the organism-environment interface shapes biological fitness, adaptation and health. The position is full-time, fixed-term for three years, based at the Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde.

Key responsibilities

• Develop an integrative framework for different measures of biological fitness.
• Develop a framework for understanding the role of the environment in explanations of adaptation.
• Explore the implications of these frameworks for understanding health.
• Contribute to all aspects of the project in close collaboration with the research team, combining philosophy and biological sciences.

Required profile

• PhD in Philosophy (awarded) or another field relevant to the research project.
• Demonstrated expertise in Philosophy of Biology and/or Theoretical Biology, with a focus on evolutionary biology.
• Strong publication record in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals at the intersection of philosophy of biology and evolutionary biology.
• Proven ability to conduct highly interdisciplinary research, bridging philosophical theory with empirical findings from the biological sciences.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with evidence of working effectively in an interdisciplinary team and meeting project deadlines.

The position is based in the Theory and Methods in Bioscience group, led by Dr Bourrat, within the Philosophy Discipline and affiliated with the University of Sydney's Charles Perkins Centre. It requires a criminal history/police check and an academic qualification check; international applicants are welcome.

What we offer

• Annual salary package from $127,138 (Level B.1), plus 17% employer superannuation and annual leave loading.
• Subsidised onsite parking, flexible working options and training and professional development.
• Onsite childcare facilities, discounted health insurance, onsite vacation care and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Subsidised membership at the Sport and Aquatic Centre, and onsite GP, imaging and physio clinics.

To apply, submit an online application with a resume (including two referees) and a separate cover letter addressing the selection criteria. Applications close on 22 November 2026.