Senior Research Fellow

Join JCU and Make a Difference in Rural Health!

• Work in a collaborative, supportive environment with strong community connections
• Enjoy the lifestyle and community of Emerald, QLD
• Full-time 36.25 hours per week | Fixed-term contract to 31 December 2026
• Academic Level C: $137,166 - $157,465 + 17% superannuation & excellent benefits

Make a real difference where it matters most

At James Cook University (JCU), we are committed to improving health outcomes for rural and remote communities. We are seeking a passionate and driven Senior Research Fellow to lead impactful research that strengthens workforce sustainability, improves service access, and advances health equity across Central Queensland.

This is a unique opportunity to shape and deliver a high-impact rural health research agenda while working closely with communities, clinicians, and policymakers.

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you will provide strategic leadership of CQCRRH’s research portfolio, aligning with the Commonwealth Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training (RHMT) Program and JCU priorities. You will:

• Lead and grow a high-impact rural and remote health research program
• Secure competitive research funding and deliver high-quality publications and translational outputs
• Build strong partnerships with health services, government, and community organisations, including Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations
• Mentor early career researchers, clinicians, and HDR candidates
• Drive co-designed research that informs policy, practice, and service innovation
• Oversee research governance, ethics, and reporting requirements

Why join us?

• Purpose-driven work with tangible impact on rural and remote communities
• Opportunity to lead innovative, multidisciplinary research programs
• Strong focus on collaboration, translation, and real-world outcomes
• Supportive environment to grow research leadership and mentorship capability
• Lifestyle benefits of living and working in regional Queensland

What you’ll bring

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant health or research discipline
• A strong track record in rural and/or remote health research
• Demonstrated success in securing competitive funding and publishing
• Experience leading multidisciplinary research teams
• A commitment to collaborative, community-engaged research
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
• Understanding of Australian rural health policy and RHMT programs

Special requirements

• Willingness to travel to rural and remote locations across Central Queensland
• Demonstrated cultural capability, particularly in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

Why join us?

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions
• 29 hour full-time working week
• 5 weeks pro rata annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Cash out annual leave
• Up to 12 months paid parental leave
• A range of flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Ongoing professional development support
• Corporate discount on health insurance
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)

How to Apply and Contact Details

At CQCRRH, you’ll be part of a passionate team making a real impact in remote communities.

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role. 

Further information is available by contacting Kehinde Obamiro on 0455 543 491 or via email to [email protected]

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