Senior Research Associate, First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing

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

This job is based in Australia.

• Employment Type: Full-time (35 hours per week)
• Duration: Fixed Term until 30 June 2028
• Remuneration: $155k - $178k base, depending on experience (+17% super and leave loading). UNSW offers up to 10 days paid culture leave annually for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff members
• Location: Randwick NSW, with hybrid or remote work conditions considered
• Opportunity to work within a collaborative academic community, rather than in isolation

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).

Make a Difference

Play a pivotal role in advancing research focused on First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB). The role will 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 the social and emotional wellbeing of First Nations employees and develop strategies to foster culturally supportive work environments.
• Child and Youth SEWB: Explore SEWB of First Nations children and youth, identifying cultural, social, and environmental factors that impact mental health and wellbeing and strategies for improvement of SEWB.
• Tertiary Student SEWB: Conduct research to improve understanding of SEWB challenges faced by First Nations tertiary students, focusing on enhancing support structures and outcomes to ensure higher retention and graduation rates.
• First Nations Suicide Prevention: Lead research that informs culturally responsive suicide prevention strategies, embedding First Nations knowledge and experiences in intervention design.
• Novel Treatments for SEWB: Examine traditional healing practices and other innovative treatments such as psychedelic Assisted Therapy to improve SEWB, developing culturally aligned solutions for mood and anxiety disturbances.

Some Key Skills Required

(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 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.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence and leadership.
• Demonstrated 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.
• Evidence of 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 improving SEWB, particularly with regards to treatment resistant impacts of trauma.
• Knowledge of or involvement in First Nations suicide prevention strategies and community-led SEWB initiatives.

Please read through the position description attached for full details.

UNSW Benefits And Culture

We offer a competitive salary and access to a range of 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
• Cultural duties performed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff members are recognised with reduced workload or additional allowance
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices

More information on staff benefits and culture can be found here.

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.

Pre-employment Checks Required For This Position

• 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. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.