Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing

Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (Identified role) – UNSW Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.

Location: Randwick NSW, with hybrid or remote work conditions also considered. 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).

Applications: 1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants.

• Play a pivotal role in advancing research focused on First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB). Contribute independent or original research within the field and to the First Nations SEWB research program at the Black Dog Institute.
• Lead strengths-based research aimed at developing initiatives that improve SEWB outcomes for First Nations individuals, families, and communities.
• Lead research areas within the First Nations SEWB program, including workforce SEWB and workplace wellbeing, child and youth SEWB, tertiary student SEWB, First Nations suicide prevention, and novel treatments for SEWB.

• Essential: 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 work.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and mentor junior researchers, especially in culturally diverse or interdisciplinary settings.
• Strong understanding of the cultural, social, and historical contexts influencing First Nations SEWB.
• Commitment to ongoing knowledge updates in the discipline; demonstrated research excellence and leadership.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships; evidence of collaboration with First Nations communities and stakeholders.
• Highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills with the ability to manage complex projects and timelines.
  • Desirable: Experience investigating cultural healing interventions or novel therapies for SEWB, particularly related to trauma treatment resistance.
  • Knowledge of or involvement in First Nations suicide prevention strategies and community-led SEWB initiatives.
  Benefits
  • 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
  • Indigenous language allowance
  • Recognition of cultural duties with reduced workload or additional allowance
  • Access to lifelong learning and career development
  • Progressive HR practices
  How to Apply

Please click on Apply now to make an application. Applications should not be sent to the contact listed below. Please 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.

• Verification of qualifications.
• Confirmation of Aboriginality documentation.

• 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 28th September before 11.30pm, Sydney time.

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of 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.