The Role

The Directorate of Health Research seeks a motivated and organised EL1 Research Officer to deliver a significant and complex research activity, the ADF Life Course Study (ADFLCS). The ADFLCS is a longitudinal health research study that will monitor the health of ADF members during their time in service and transition to civilian life.

As the EL1 Research Officer, you will work with a variety of researchers and Australian Government agencies under the guidance of an EL2 to establish the various arms of this research study.

Your role will include:

• Planning and coordinating of the aspects of the ADFLCS, including development of appropriate research and data governance arrangements.
• Adherence to the standards that guide research conduct such as the Australian Code for the conduct of research.
• Engagement and communication with a broad range of stakeholders including expert advisory groups and ADF members.
• Ensure monitoring and reporting on research progress, expenditure.
• Draft high-level briefings for senior leaders and publications for publishing.
• Oversee and manage a small high performing team.
• Adhere to the APS Values, employment principles and code of conduct.

About our Team

Joint Health Command (JHC) is responsible for the delivery of military medicine and healthcare services to Australian Defence Force (ADF). Through the delivery of best practice health services, JHC enables a healthy, ready, and supported Force from enlistment through to transition. As part of Defence People Group, we make a direct contribution to the ADF’s operational capability and provide crucial support to the warfighter.

Health Protection and Policy Branch, has a broad range of functions including health surveillance, health research, development of prevention and health promotion programs, health policy and occupational psychology, that supports the Defence Health system and the health of ADF members.

The Directorate of Health Research is responsible for:

• Setting the strategic agenda for Defence health research.
• Reviewing and updating research governance structures processes so they align with best practice and the Australian Code for the responsible conduct of research.
• Conducting, commissioning and facilitating health research; including the establishment of the ADF Life Course Study.
• Creating internal and external research partners that enhance JHC's ability to deliver research and knowledge that enables Defence to achieve its strategic goals.
• Dissemination and translation of health research that improves the capability of the Defence Health System and the health of the ADF.

Our Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate is a highly motivated person who enjoys working independently and as part of a small, high performing research team, in a fast paced environment.

The candidate will have:

• A tertiary qualification in a health related discipline (e.g., Public Health or Epidemiology (highly desirable) or health science, allied health and medical disciplines).
• Possess excellent research management skills and experience in end-to-end delivery of research projects including the experience in research and data governance.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical ideas clearly and succinctly.
• Demonstrated ability to engage positively with broad range stakeholders and negotiate beneficial outcomes.
• Demonstrated people management skills and leadership of small high-performing teams.
• Be passionate about fostering evidence-based policy, programs and practice.
• Previous experience working in a Defence environment will be highly regarded.

Application Closing Date: Monday 4 August 2025

For further information please review the job information pack, reference DPG/05627/25 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=D8EC5605-E997-21DF-EB6A-E40323A6893E