Senior Research Assistant (Identified s25)

• Institute for Social Science Research

• Full-time, fixed-term position for up to two years

• Base salary will be in the range $85,451 - $94,983 + 17% super (HEW Level 5)

• This position is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates only, as a genuine occupational requirement

• Based at Long Pocket only 10 minutes from St Lucia Campus

The University of Queensland (UQ) acknowledges the Traditional Owners and their custodianship of the lands on which UQ operates. We pay our respects to their Ancestors and their descendants, who continue cultural and spiritual connections to Country. We recognise their valuable contributions to Australian and global society. 

The UQ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Graduate Program has been designed to develop the graduate’s practical skills, by building on theoretical knowledge learned through a bachelor’s degree.

You will join a purpose-driven, collaborative research environment where you will contribute to impactful Indigenous-led projects that create meaningful change for communities. As a Senior Research Assistant within the Institute for Social Science Research, you will play a vital role in supporting the SPIRIT initiative, a global program focused on strengthening child and maternal health through intergenerational Indigenous traditions. Working alongside experienced Indigenous researchers and community partners, you will help deliver culturally grounded, high-quality research that has local, national and global significance.

Whether you are looking to build your research experience and explore a future career in academia, or are considering a research career, or are simply looking to gain a taste of academic life – this role will provide valuable hands-on experience, the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research and exposure to the broader academic environment.

Key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: 

• Providing high-level research and administrative support, including coordinating engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and stakeholders.

• Supporting the development and implementation of research project materials and contributing to literature reviews and data-informed insights.

• Facilitating meetings, including leadership, data sovereignty and Cultural Authority Team engagements, ensuring strong community accountability practices.

• Contributing to collaborative partnerships with community organisations and participating in national and global SPIRIT program activities.

For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.

We are seeking a motivated, organised, and enthusiastic individual to join our multidisciplinary team and contribute to Indigenous-led research projects that deliver meaningful practical and theoretical outcomes. You will bring strong administrative, coordination, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to effectively prioritise competing tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment. Excellent organisational and time management skills are essential.

In this role, you will work in a manner that reflects and respects local and national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander protocols, cultures, and worldviews. We are looking for someone who is passionate about making a positive impact and is committed to driving meaningful change through creative, collaborative, and applied research.

Essential

The University of Queensland considers that to perform this role, it is essential that the person is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld).

The successful candidate will be required to provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree within the past three years (the degree must be awarded prior to commencing the Graduate Program). Relevant degrees may include, but are not limited to, Social Science, Public Health, Health Sciences, Social Work, Community Development, Psychology, Allied Health, Community Services, or a related discipline.

• Demonstrated skills in providing a high level of Aboriginal community engagement, including effective interpersonal and communication skills.

• Demonstrated high level of proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite.

• Experience working as a team member in a busy cross-cultural environment.

• Working knowledge of university administrative systems, policies and procedures or the capacity to rapidly acquire this knowledge.

• Have the ability to travel, including field work, interstate and international.

As part of the UQ community, you will work alongside bright minds from around the world, united by a shared commitment to creating a better world. Excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued, and staff are supported through a wide range of benefits, including up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% superannuation, 17.5% leave loading, flexible and hybrid working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on‑campus childcare, free parking at our Long Pocket Campus, salary packaging, and cultural leave.

UQ is committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ learning, discovery and engagement, and to playing a leading role in reconciliation in Australia. Guided by our Strategic Plan, Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy, we work in partnership with communities to embed reconciliation across our operations. You will be supported to connect with vibrant staff networks, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network, and your cultural identity will be respected, valued and embraced.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Kathryn Gilbey at [email protected]. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line. 

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.

Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia, criminal history checks and Blue Card checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing [email protected] or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close Sunday 30 August 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-64859)