Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Overview
Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Indigenous Targeted) - Culturally Nourishing School (CNS) project at UNSW. The role focuses on quantitative education research to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through culturally focused, strengths-based whole-of-school change. The CNS project is a collaborative initiative between universities, schools, and communities, combining leadership, professional learning, and practice-informed research to reshape teaching, curriculum, and community engagement. We’re seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Quantitative) to help drive the next phase of CNS (2024–2027), supporting expansion across NSW, SA, and VIC.
Role Details
Location: Work from Kensington NSW, Adelaide, or Melbourne.
Employment Type: Full-Time (35-hour week).
Duration: Fixed-Term Contract until 31 December 2027.
Remuneration: Level B, $127,947 – $150,830 + 17% superannuation.
Other: Cultural Leave (for Indigenous People) and Indigenous Employee Network.
Responsibilities
Develop a research agenda and deliver high-quality reports and publications.
Apply quantitative education research methods and multivariate analysis.
Support the management of a large, multi-stakeholder research program.
Contribute to advocacy through data and policy-relevant insights.
Conduct high-quality research in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, both independently and within project teams.
Prepare and publish research outputs (journal articles, reports, books) and contribute to grant submissions.
Manage data, projects, and records in line with ethics, legal, and professional standards.
Present research at conferences and industry forums, and engage with external stakeholders.
Supervise HDR students where appropriate and contribute to project administration.
Qualifications
A PhD in Education, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Studies, Sociology, or related field (within the past 5 years, with allowances for career interruptions).
Proven scholarly writing skills and a developing publication record.
Strong quantitative research skills, including multivariate analysis (experience in combined/mixed-methods research is advantageous).
Experience conducting research in schools (preferred).
Excellent project management, organisational, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively in diverse teams, with a willingness to travel domestically.
About UNSW
UNSW is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. The university supports flexible work options and provides workplace adjustments for people with disability. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Benefits and Culture
Flexible working.
Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas period.
Access to lifelong learning and career development.
Progressive HR practices.
Discounts and entitlements.
Cultural Leave (for Indigenous people) and Indigenous Employee Network.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV, along with a cover letter, and an additional separate document that addresses your suitability in relation to each of the selection criteria (listed under “Skills & Experience” in the position description). A copy of the Position Description can be found on
Important Dates
Applications close: 11:30pm on the 5th of October, 2025.
Pre-employment and Aboriginal Identity
The successful applicant will be required to complete standard pre-employment checks prior to commencing. If the successful applicant has self-identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, confirmation of Aboriginality will also be requested.
Contacts
Get in touch: Nat Chenhall – Manager Indigenous Employment, For queries regarding the recruitment process, contact Lucy Gerondis, Talent Acquisition Consultant, UNSW:
Equal Opportunity
UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. The University provides workplace adjustments and flexible work options for eligible staff.
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