Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (Identified role)

Join to apply for the Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (Identified role) role at UNSW

Overview

This is an identified Indigenous position. UNSW considers that being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander is a genuine occupational qualification under s 14 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW).

Responsibilities

• Make independent or original contributions to the research effort within the field of research expertise and to the First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) research program at the Black Dog Institute.
• Contribute to the holistic understanding of SEWB and lead strengths-based research aimed at developing initiatives that improve SEWB outcomes for First Nations individuals, families, and communities.
• Lead research areas including Workforce SEWB and Workplace Wellbeing, Child and Youth SEWB, Tertiary Student SEWB, First Nations Suicide Prevention, and Novel Treatments for SEWB.

Qualifications and Skills (Essential and Desirable)

• Identification as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.
• A PhD in a related discipline (e.g. psychology, public health, Indigenous studies), and/or relevant work experience.
• Experience in conducting research on First Nations SEWB with a track record of culturally relevant research.
• Ability to lead research teams and mentor junior researchers, with experience in culturally diverse or interdisciplinary settings.
• Strong understanding of cultural, social, and historical contexts that influence First Nations SEWB.
• Commitment to keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Proven track record of high-quality research with impact and leadership potential.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of collaboration with First Nations communities and stakeholders in research, ensuring co-creation of knowledge and solutions.
• Strong interpersonal and organisational skills to manage complex projects and timelines.

• Desirable: Experience investigating cultural healing interventions or novel therapies for improving SEWB; knowledge of First Nations suicide prevention strategies and community-led SEWB initiatives.

Benefits

• Remuneration: $155k - $178k base, plus 17% superannuation and leave loading; up to 10 days paid culture leave annually for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
• Location: Randwick NSW, with hybrid or remote work options.
• Other benefits: Flexible working, additional leave during Christmas, Indigenous language allowance, career development opportunities.

Remuneration and Term

Duration: Fixed Term until 30 June 2028. Full-time (35 hours per week).

How to Apply

Click Apply now to submit your application. Please include a resume and a separate cover letter addressing the main skills and experience listed in the position description. A copy of the Position Description is available on JOBS@UNSW.

Pre-employment Checks

• Verification of qualifications.
• The successful applicant will be required to provide Confirmation of Aboriginality documentation.

Enquiries

• Merita O\'Connell – Talent Acquisition Consultant, E: merita.oconnell@unsw.edu.au
• Natalie Chenell – Manager Indigenous Employment, E: n.chenhall@unsw.edu.au

Applications close

Sunday 28 September before 11:30pm, Sydney time.

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.