• Make a meaningful impact on regional growth and development.
• Be part of a supportive and forward-thinking research team.
• Part time 14.5 hpw | Fixed term to 31 December 2026
• Based in Cairns where you can enjoy a career and a tropical lifestyle
• Acad B $106,593 - $125,774 + 17% Superannuation (prorata)

Are you passionate about driving positive change and fostering sustainable regional growth? The Cairns Institute at James Cook University invites you to be part of their dynamic team as a Senior Research Officer, Regional Development (Part-Time).

WHAT YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH IN THE ROLE

In this pivotal role, you will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research initiatives that shape the future of regional development across Northern Australia. Your expertise and insights will play a crucial role in developing strategies and policies that promote economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the development and implementation of regional development research projects including drought resilience, climate change, economic transitions and workforce.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, and local communities, to identify research priorities and translate findings into actionable solutions.
• Develop and implement research projects, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and research excellence.
• Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through publications, presentations, and engagement with policymakers and practitioners.
• Mentor and support early career researchers and students, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and professional development.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

• Advanced qualifications and/or recognised experience or track record in applied regional or community development, business development, policy development environment and natural resource management, or similar disciplines relevant to regional and community development research in North Queensland.
• Proven track record of conducting high-quality research in regional development or related fields.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, including grant writing and report preparation.
• Commitment to ethical research practices and a passion for advancing sustainable regional development.

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.

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/personal/carers leave per year
• Cash-out annual leave and time in lieu options
• 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

HOW TO APPLY

This part-time position offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of Northern Australia's regions. Join The Cairns Institute at James Cook University and be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking research community.

For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact Professor Hurriyet Babacan on 0413 819 884 or via email [email protected]

Applications close on Sunday 25 May 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.