Creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally, and globally, James Cook University (JCU) is looking to appoint a Health Economist, FNQ Connect within the Cairns Institute, Division of Research.

This position is offered on a Full time, fixed term basis to May 2027 and is based at our Cairns Nguma-bada campus. ACAD Level C the salary is $129,607 - $148,787 + up to 17% employer superannuation contributions.

ABOUT THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH

The Research Division plays a pivotal role in the University by developing and implementing research strategy and policy, identifying and fostering research strength, delivering research services including grants, ethics and commercialisation, managing research infrastructure and promoting and coordinating collaboration with governments, industry, publicly funded research agencies and other universities.

ABOUT FNQ CONNECT

FNQ Connect was created in response to a groundswell of interest and concern from FNQ people with lived experience of disability, their families and communities, together with stakeholders responsible for supporting them. They expressed an urgent need for service reform: current supply of services is outweighed by needs and is well below national standards; inaccuracies in national data conceal these inequities.

WHAT YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH IN THE ROLE

The Health Economist, FNQ Connect provides an opportunity to embed a health economist in local-level evaluation. The Health Economist will focus on evidence-based decision making and on developing and implementing an economic evaluation plan to assess the impact of FNQ Connect.

• Design and implement an economic evaluation plan for FNQ Connect, focusing on social return on investment (SROI).
• Prepare comprehensive business cases, research proposals and secure funding for projects that align with FNQ Connect priorities.
• Design and implement monitoring systems to track FNQ Connect’s health and social outcomes over time, ensuring alignment with the objectives and key performance indicators for FNQ Connect and contributing organisations to inform iterative improvements.
• Tailor evidence and provide high-level economic analyses and advice, to the members of the cross-sector leadership table on cost-effectiveness, resource allocation, and financial sustainability of FNQ Connect.
• Collaborate with FNQ Connect stakeholders, to present findings and recommendations in accessible formats through community outreach, workshops, and public lectures.
• Build capability in program planning, monitoring, and evaluation across FNQ Connect, through training programs, tools, and frameworks that support the application of health economics principles.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

• A PhD or equivalent advanced education, or substantial leadership experience within health, disability, or community development sectors.

• Proven ability to conduct economic evaluations, including cost-effectiveness and SROI assessments.
• Advanced analytical skills, including proficiency with statistical and economic modeling tools (e.g., R, STATA, Excel).
• Strong track record in translating complex data into actionable insights for policy and investment decisions.

• Results-driven with a commitment to driving change through evidence-based solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to engage and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government, and academic partners.

WHY JCU?

JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/carers leave per year
• Up to 12 months paid parental leave
• Cultural leave and flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development support
• Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes, gym and childcare.

WHAT MATTERS TO US AT JCU?

Our People – Our staff, students, and the communities we serve

Our Education – Knowledge has the power to change lives

Our Place – the Tropics and beyond

Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation

HOW TO APPLY

If you are a passionate academic interested in contributing to this valuable area of our university, please obtain further information and apply via the JCU website by clicking ‘apply for this job’ below.

For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact either:

Ruth Barker (Project Lead) on 0402 216 786 or email [email protected]

Katrina Bird (Deputy Lead) on 0419 891 618 or via email [email protected]

Applications close 11 April at 11.59pm

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.