• School of Architecture, Design and Planning - Faculty of EAIT
• Artificial Heart Frontiers Program (AHFP)
• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 2 years
• Base salary will be in the range $80,448.78 - $107,104.10 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
• Based at our St Lucia Campus, Brisbane

About This Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Officer to join the Design Innovation Research Lab at The University of Queensland. Our Design team at UQ is at the forefront of translating groundbreaking research into commercial opportunities, with a strong focus on enhancing the quality of life for patients.

Within this role, you will specifically focus on the design aspects of Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) devices as part of the Medical Research Future Funds (MRFF) grant, working closely with the Professor of Design leading this critical component.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Research: You will be responsible for conceptualising, designing, and implementing research protocols, with a particular emphasis on qualitative research methods and the translation of insights into design considerations. The position involves all phases of the product development process - from early-stage research and market analysis through to prototyping, virtual presentations, and the dissemination of design outcomes.

You will also be expected to:

• Coordinate study timelines and lead progress reviews.
• Write and contribute to academic publications in high-impact formats.
• Actively contribute to the research culture and activities of the Design Innovation Research Lab, housed within the School of Architecture, Design and Planning at UQ.

• Supervision and Researcher Development: Demonstrate effective supervision and researcher development by providing feedback, coaching, and professional growth opportunities. Lead and support supervisee performance, manages research support staff in line with University policies, and addresses conflicts or grievances promptly and appropriately.

• Citizenship and Service: Demonstrate citizenship aligned with UQ values through collaboration, active participation in unit priorities, and supporting colleagues during absences. Contribute to internal service roles, decision-making, and committee work, while also engaging in service activities beyond the immediate unit. Begin building external relationships with industry, government, professional bodies, and the broader community.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ's Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

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.

About You

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in a relevant disciplinary area aligned with the project context (e.g., Health Design, Design, Human-Centred Design, or a related field).
• A growing research profile and demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary, applied, or clinical research contexts.
• A developing reputation with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at recognised academic and/or professional conferences.
• Evidence of successful project management, including the coordination of research activities and delivery of outputs.
• Experience collaborating within interdisciplinary research teams and engaging with external stakeholders (particularly in healthcare settings) is highly desirable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check, mandatory immunisations, etc.

Work Rights
You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Cara Wrigley via [email protected]. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Responses to the 'About You' section

Other Information

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 do not 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 are dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We are committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to [email protected] for accessibility support or adjustments.

Applications close on Thursday, 3 July 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-52215).