Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing

Overview

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

This role is based in Australia with hybrid or remote work options considered.

Responsibilities

• Play a pivotal role in advancing research focused on First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB).
• Make independent or original contributions to the research effort within the field of research expertise and to the First Nations 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.

Key Areas of Research Focus within the First Nations SEWB at Black Dog Institute include:

• Workforce SEWB and Workplace Wellbeing: Investigate factors influencing SEWB of First Nations employees and develop culturally supportive work environments.
• Child and Youth SEWB: Explore SEWB of First Nations children and youth, identifying factors impacting mental health and wellbeing and strategies for improvement of SEWB.
• Tertiary Student SEWB: Research SEWB challenges faced by First Nations tertiary students, focusing on enhancing support structures and outcomes to improve retention and graduation rates.
• First Nations Suicide Prevention: Lead research informing culturally responsive suicide prevention strategies with First Nations knowledge and experiences in intervention design.
• Novel Treatments for SEWB: Examine traditional healing practices and other innovative treatments to improve SEWB, developing culturally aligned solutions for mood and anxiety disturbances.

QualificationsEssential

• 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 producing high quality, culturally relevant research.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and mentor junior researchers, especially in culturally diverse or interdisciplinary settings.
• A strong understanding of the cultural, social, and historical contexts that influence First Nations SEWB.
• Commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Proven track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact and capacity for leadership.
• 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 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.

Location, Type, and Benefits

• Employment Type: Full-time (35 hours per week)
• Duration: Fixed Term until 30 June 2028
• Remuneration: $155k–$178k base, plus 17% superannuation and leave loading; UNSW offers up to 10 days paid culture leave annually for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
• Location: Randwick NSW, with hybrid or remote work options considered
• Indigenous language allowance and cultural duties recognition through workload adjustments or allowances

How to Apply

Please click on Apply now to submit your application. 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 can be found on JOBS@UNSW.

Pre-employment Checks

• Verification of qualifications
• Confirmation of Aboriginality documentation required from the successful applicant

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.

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