Research Associate

About The Team

The Sustainability discipline within the School of HASS is a thriving teaching and research hub that contributes to Murdoch University’s Strategic Theme of Sustainability and has strong connections to two other strategic themes; the First Nations and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

The Just Transitions and Critical Minerals Project, which reflects all three of Murdoch’s strategic themes, is an exciting new initiative established in collaboration between Murdoch University and the Mineral Policy Institute (MPI). The Collaboration is more than academic, with a translational research approach that engages with community, business and policy audiences. Part local (WA and Australia) and part global, the collaboration will focus on how the energy transition materials (ETM’s) required for local and global energy transitions can be accessed, processed, utilised and distributed in a just, equitable and sustainable manner, in keeping with a strong understanding of sustainability.

Your New Role

The position undertakes activities relating to the above project, and supports the Chief Investigator, associated researchers, and the MU-MPI collaboration. You will be supported to actively engage in original research, research translation, communications, stakeholder engagement and project administration, working closely with experienced researchers. The role presents a rare opportunity in translational and impactful research that will develop the portfolio and experience of prospective or early career researchers.

Your key responsibilities will include
- Conducting high-quality research in support of the project.
- Prepare research outputs tailored to diverse audiences, including research summaries, reports, media articles, policy briefs, and submissions for Government or industry stakeholders.
- Contribute to stakeholder engagement activities, including liaising with community groups, industry partners, and government representatives to support knowledge exchange and impact.
- Undertake collaborative research on key thematic areas which may include:

- Technospheric mining,
- Critical minerals in WA,
- The ethics of a Critical Minerals-powered energy transition,
- Critical minerals mining and processing.
- Support the coordination and administration of project activities.
- Participate in scholarly activities such as scholarly reviews, data collection and analysis, academic writing, and the preparation of publications and conference presentations.

Please refer to the

Position Description

for further details.

What We Offer You

An 18-month fixed term position (ending 12/2026) | Part Time FTE 0.8, negotiable (30 hours per week) attracting a remuneration of $76,000 - $103,000 (pro rata) (depending on experience, skills and qualifications) plus 17% employer superannuation contributions.

You’ll join a dynamic and talented team where diversity and innovation thrive. Our Bronze
- tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index reflects our commitment to LGBTIQA+ inclusion, equity and creating a safe, welcoming environment for all. We strive to be the university of choice for First Nations peoples, honouring Indigenous knowledge. Sustainability is central to our community and guided by clear, confident leadership, we are working toward an ambitious future with goals of net zero emissions and zero waste by 2030.

As well as the flexibility to maintain a work life balance, our staff enjoy a vibrant, natural campus with world-class facilities, along with a variety of benefits, including:

- Periodic salary increases between 1 July 2025 to 1 July 2026 totalling an 6% increase
- Flexible work arrangements
- Cultural Load and allowance - providing up to $8,944 per year to First Nations employees who are contributing cultural knowledge and perspectives beyond the scope of their role
- Indigenous Language Allowance
- Salary packaging options - such as purchasing leave, gym membership, car parking permit
- Employee Assistance Program
- On-campus services and facilities, such as a Childcare Centre, Gym, Vet Hospital, and Chiropractic Clinic

For further information, check out our

benefits and services page



Join us
- A cover letter including a statement addressing the selection criteria (with reference to the Position Description)
- Your most recent resume (CV)

Selection Criteria:

- Completion of a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in sustainability, geography, natural resource management, science and technology studies, environmental science or related field.
- Knowledge of the Western Australian mining sector, politics or related community issues with relevant experience or knowledge related to mining, natural resources, related technologies, impact assessment or regulatory processes.
- Experience in conducting research activities, such as literature reviews, basic qualitative and/or quantitative data collection, and initial analysis and synthesis or information.
- Ability to engage with a range of st