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 a 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 options considered

Note: 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).

Role overview

Contribute to the First Nations Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) research program at the Black Dog Institute. Make independent or original contributions to research within the field, aiming to advance SEWB understanding and lead strengths-based research to develop initiatives that improve SEWB outcomes for First Nations individuals, families, and communities.

Key research focus areas

• 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 cultural, social, and environmental factors that impact mental health and wellbeing and strategies for improvement.
• Tertiary Student SEWB: Improve understanding of SEWB challenges faced by First Nations tertiary students, focusing on enhancing support structures and outcomes to support retention and graduation.
• First Nations Suicide Prevention: Lead research informing culturally responsive suicide prevention strategies.
• Novel Treatments for SEWB: Examine traditional healing practices and innovative treatments to improve SEWB, including culturally aligned solutions for mood and anxiety disturbances.

Key skills and qualifications (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 researching First Nations SEWB with a track record of high-quality, culturally relevant research.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and mentor junior researchers in culturally diverse or interdisciplinary settings.
• Strong understanding of the cultural, social, and historical contexts influencing First Nations SEWB.
• Commitment to staying up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Evidence of high-quality research outcomes and leadership potential.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships.
• Experience collaborating with First Nations communities and stakeholders in research, ensuring co-creation of knowledge and solutions.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills to manage complex projects and timelines.

Desirable

• Experience investigating cultural healing interventions or novel therapies for improving SEWB, especially related to treatment-resistant trauma.
• Knowledge of or involvement in First Nations suicide prevention strategies and community-led SEWB initiatives.

Please read the position description attached for full details.

UNSW Benefits and Culture

• 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
• Indigenous language allowance
• Recognition of cultural duties with reduced workload or additional allowance
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices

How to apply

Please click 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 .

Pre-employment checks

• Verification of qualifications
• The successful applicant will be required to provide Confirmation of Aboriginality documentation

Enquiries

• Merita O'Connell – Talent Acquisition Consultant, E:
• Natalie Chenell – Manager Indigenous Employment, E:

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 and flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.