Overview

Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (Identified role) at UNSW. This role offers an opportunity to make a difference by advancing research focused on First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB). The role involves independent or original contributions to the research effort within the First Nations SEWB research program at the Black Dog Institute, contributing to a holistic understanding of SEWB and leading strengths-based research aimed at developing initiatives that improve SEWB outcomes for First Nations individuals, families, and communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to research within the First Nations SEWB program, including topics such as Workforce SEWB and Workplace Wellbeing, Child and Youth SEWB, Tertiary Student SEWB, First Nations Suicide Prevention, and Novel Treatments for SEWB.
• Develop culturally aligned research approaches, embed First Nations knowledge and experiences in intervention design, and translate findings into initiatives that improve SEWB outcomes.
• Mentor junior researchers, lead research teams, and collaborate across disciplines while building effective relationships with First Nations communities and stakeholders to co-create knowledge and solutions.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• 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.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting research on First Nations SEWB with a track record of high-quality, culturally relevant research.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and mentor junior researchers in culturally diverse or interdisciplinary settings.
• Strong understanding of the cultural, social, and historical contexts that influence First Nations SEWB.
• Commitment to keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments; evidence of high-quality, impactful research with leadership potential.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships; experience collaborating with First Nations communities and stakeholders in research.
• Highly developed interpersonal and organizational skills with the ability to manage complex projects and timelines.

Desirable

• Experience investigating cultural healing interventions or novel therapies for improving SEWB, particularly regarding treatment-resistant trauma.
• Knowledge of or involvement in First Nations suicide prevention strategies and community-led SEWB initiatives.

Benefits and Culture

UNSW offers a competitive salary and benefits, including:

• 17% Superannuation and leave loading
• Flexible working
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period
• Up to 10 days paid culture leave annually for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff members
• Indigenous language allowance
• Recognition of cultural duties with reduced workload or additional allowance
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices

Remuneration and Conditions

Employment Type: Full-time (35 hours per week)

Duration: Fixed Term until 30 June 2028

Location: Randwick NSW, with hybrid or remote work options considered

Remuneration: $155k – $178k base, plus 17% superannuation and leave loading

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).

How to Apply

Please click on Apply now to make an application. Applications should not be sent to the contact listed below. Provide a resume and a separate cover letter addressing the main skills and experience listed in the position description. A copy of the Position Description can be found 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

Closing Date

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.