Research Fellow 2

International Development - Education Research Fellow

Education Analytics, Research and Capability Building (EdARC) Program

·       Fixed term, full time (initial period 12 months with the option of extension)

·       Location flexible but must be within a 2-hour time difference to Melbourne, Australia.

About the Australian Council for Educational Research

The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) is one of the world's leading educational research and development organisations. As a not-for-profit research organisation, ACER is committed to improving learning for all by creating and sharing evidence-informed insights and tools so every learner can thrive.

ACER's Education and Development research program focuses on supporting education systems across the Asia-Pacific region through commissioned work for a range of international organisations and agencies, including the Australian government and other international development partners.

The role

An exciting new opportunity has opened and ACER is seeking a Research Fellow to join our Education and Development team to provide research support, project management, and client liaison expertise.  The position will primarily be responsible for leading and managing the DFAT funded EdARC program, that provides expertise and capacity building to support DFAT's education investments in the Asia-Pacific region.

The research fellow role will:

· Lead program planning, activity development, and reflection sessions for the EdARC program

· Contribute to setting the strategic direction of the EdARC program, including participating in the review and update of program strategy documents

· Respond to tasking notes from DFAT and collaborate on the development of Project Concept Notes as needed

· Develop, maintain, and monitor detailed workplans of program activities

· Implement program reporting, including preparing narrative reports for DFAT

· Facilitate program management meetings with DFAT

· Contribute to establishing and implementing effective monitoring, evaluation and learning arrangements

· Work with the Education and Development Communications specialist on research partnership strategies and initiatives.

· Actively contribute to and participate in program activities to enhance the delivery of education and development research outcomes at ACER

· Develop and build professional collegiality and networks through participation in events, forums, workshops and conferences at ACER and in the broader education and development research community

Experience and Qualifications

A relevant master's degree, ideally in education research, international development, or related field, as well as professional experience in the international education sector with international development or UN systems is required. At least 5 years of experience of working in the Asia-Pacific, or similar contexts is essential. Proven background in social research is required, with experience managing field operations for international research projects an added advantage. A high level of planning and organisational skills, problem solving, communication (written and verbal), and interpersonal skills are also required.

Salary and conditions

This position is initially offered as a one-year position with the option of extension for the right candidate.  Salary is in the range of $134,642 to $148,813 per annum (plus superannuation) commensurate with qualifications and experience. Candidates must be willing and able to travel for up to 3 months of the year.

Applications should include a concise cover letter (1-2 pages) and a detailed CV. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants must have the right to live and work in Australia. Interviews will be held on-line with a second step application process to be confirmed. The selected candidate will require a working with children check and may be required to provide a police check.

For further details and to apply, please visit our website.

Applications close 30th October 2025 but may be filled prior.