Shape Indigenous research leadership at UQ in a newly established senior role
Fixed-term appointment for up to five years, split 50/50 between the Office of the DVC (Indigenous Engagement) and a relevant Faculty or Institute
This position is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates only, as a genuine occupational requirement reflecting the responsibility for Indigenous research leadership, ethics and engagement
Based at our picturesque St Lucia Campus
The University of Queensland (UQ) acknowledges the Traditional Owners and their custodianship of the lands on which UQ operates. We pay our respects to their Ancestors and their descendants, who continue cultural and spiritual connections to Country. We recognise their valuable contributions to Australian and global society.
The University of Queensland (UQ) is seeking an outstanding academic leader to join the University in a newly established and strategically significant role as Associate Professor / Professor, Research & Innovation (Indigenous). This role is central to advancing UQ’s Indigenous Research Strategy and strengthening Indigenous research capacity, ethics and innovation across the University. Working closely with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement), and in partnership with the research portfolio and Faculties, the successful candidate will help shape the direction, governance and impact of Indigenous research at UQ.
The position is split equally between leadership within the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) and research activity within a Faculty or Institute aligned to your primary discipline. It offers a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of strategy, research leadership and institutional influence, while continuing to build your own internationally recognised research profile. In this role, you will provide senior leadership in Indigenous research and governance, support researcher development, lead major research initiatives, and represent UQ in key internal and external forums, with significant scope to shape and grow the portfolio.
For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.
The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.
As part of our team, you'll have access to cultural leave, allowing you to maintain and celebrate your cultural responsibilities. You'll also have the opportunity to connect with vibrant staff networks, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Be part of an organisation that respects and champions Indigenous voices, your journey starts here!
UQ is committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ learning, discovery and engagement. The University’s Strategic Plan outlines strategies aimed at increasing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, which are supported through the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy. Here in Australia, we especially want to play a leading role in reconciliation as advocates with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
The University of Queensland considers that to perform this role, it is essential that the person is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld). The position is therefore only open to Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. The successful candidate will be required to provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.
You will hold a PhD with significant senior leadership experience (or equivalent) and a strong record of research excellence, including grant success and postgraduate supervision. You will bring demonstrated leadership in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander matters, extensive experience in higher education, and advanced knowledge of relevant legislative frameworks. Highly developed communication and stakeholder engagement skills, together with a strong commitment to integrity, equity and collegial leadership, are essential.
The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia and education check
If you’re relocating for this opportunity, we may support you with a relocation support package. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Paige Willemse or Maddy Flaherty at talent@uq.edu.au stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:
Resume
Cover letter
Responses to the ‘About You’ section outlined in the appointment booklet
UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.
We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments.
Your cultural identity will be respected, valued, and embraced in this role.
Applications close Sunday 29 March 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-59647).