Research Assistant

• Based in the College of Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences, Adelaide City Campus West
• Part-time (0.4FTE) and Full-time fixed term positions until 28 February 2028
• Salary range: $81,293 - $109,307 pro rata per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the team in the School of Psychology. This position is responsible for undertaking research related activities to support the research program led by the Pro Vice Chancellor: First Nations Education in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing, mental health, and the social determinants of health.

The team

Reporting to the Pro Vice Chancellor, First Nations Education, this role is based within the School of Psychology. A dynamic and supportive team environment enable opportunities for growth and development while contributing to meaningful and impactful research which promotes mental health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The College of Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences is a driver for change, using analysis, communication and advocacy to meet the needs of our modern, connected and evolving world.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the College of Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences | Adelaide University

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role suits someone who enjoys working in a dynamic environment with a variety of tasks to complete and enjoys working in multidisciplinary teams to maximise our collective achievements. You’ll engage with Aboriginal Peoples, colleagues, students, and industry partners to contribute to innovative research contributions across.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

Qualifications:

• Honours or Post Graduate Research Degree in a Behavioural, Social Science, Social Work, Education, Health, Policy or related discipline.

Essential:

• Demonstrated understanding of the South Australian community sector and experience establishing and maintaining a network of contacts for collaborative activities relevant to Aboriginal community engagement.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain culturally-responsive relationships with the Aboriginal community.
• Research, policy or practice experience in a related area.
• Demonstrated understanding of qualitative research methods and ability to undertake qualitative data analysis and strong skills in understanding and critiquing the quality of published research studies.
• Demonstrated research writing skills, including an ability to locate, evaluate, compile, and edit relevant literature and research data.
• Excellent initiative, problem solving, time management and organisational skills, including experience in priority setting, the ability to perform multiple tasks, to work productively with limited supervision and within a team environment, and to work to deadlines.
• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills, with demonstrated ability to interact with a diversity of individuals both within and external to the University; and contribute to effective team processes and work in a collegial manner with other staff in the workplace.
• Demonstrated computing skills, particularly in the use of Microsoft office programs, statistical, qualitative, and bibliographic packages.
• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to equity and social justice within a tertiary educational context.

Desirable:

• Demonstrated experience in participatory research or co-design.
• Demonstrated understanding of quantitative research methods and ability to undertake quantitative data analysis.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Launch your future with Adelaide University now.

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:

• your current CV
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.

Submit your application by 11:30pm, Thursday 2 July 2026

Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493163):

Jessica Maslen

Team Lead – Talent Acquisition

People and Culture

+61 8 8302 1700| [email protected]

Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.

Appointment is subject to a satisfactory National Police Check (NPC) being obtained and maintained.

Pursuant to the Child Safety (Prohibited Persons) Act 2016 (the Act) and the Child Safety (Prohibited Persons) Regulations 2019 (the Regulations), this position has been deemed prescribed. This role will require the successful candidate to hold a current Working with Children Check.

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