Exploring Career Paths in the School of Medicine and Dentistry at Griffith University

The School of Medicine and Dentistry at Griffith University stands as a beacon of excellence in health education and research within Australia. Nestled in the vibrant Gold Coast region, this school within Griffith Health offers a dynamic environment for professionals passionate about advancing medical and dental sciences. With state-of-the-art facilities like the AUD$150 million Griffith Health Centre, including a comprehensive dental clinic, the institution attracts top talent eager to contribute to innovative teaching, groundbreaking research, and community health outcomes. For those considering working at the School of Medicine and Dentistry at Griffith University, opportunities abound in academia, clinical practice, research, and support roles, all underpinned by a commitment to interprofessional collaboration and sustainable health practices.

Griffith University's emphasis on practical, simulation-based learning and partnerships with entities like Gold Coast University Hospital creates a rich tapestry for career growth. Professionals here engage in small-group teaching, mentor future dentists and doctors, and tackle real-world challenges in areas such as First Peoples Health and public health. The school's mission to improve health outcomes for all resonates deeply, making it an ideal workplace for dedicated individuals seeking impact.

Leadership and a Collaborative Team Environment

At the helm is Professor Julian Archer, Head of School and Professor of Paediatrics, whose expertise in medical education fosters a forward-thinking atmosphere. Supporting him are key figures like Professor Chris Carty, Deputy Head (Research), focusing on movement impairment and clinical technologies; Associate Professor Bernadette Sebar, Deputy Head (Learning and Teaching); Acting Dean of Dentistry Professor Roy George; and Dean of Medicine Professor S Niru Nirthanan. The school's manager, Lisa Cotterell, ensures smooth operations.

The staff directory reveals a robust team of associate professors, senior lecturers, and researchers specializing in anatomy, primary care, public health, and more. Notable contributors include Associate Professor Lakal Dissabandara, Chair of Anatomy, and Professor Simon Broadley in neurology-related fields. This multidisciplinary group collaborates across medicine, dentistry, paramedicine, and public health, promoting a culture where ideas flourish through shared governance and regular interprofessional activities. Working here means joining a network of over 100 academics and clinicians committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, particularly in supporting First Peoples employment and cultural safety.

The recent Australian Medical Council accreditation report for the Doctor of Medicine program highlights strengths in leadership and stakeholder engagement, creating a positive working environment despite recommendations for enhanced Indigenous representation in governance.

Diverse Academic and Teaching Positions Available

Academic roles form the core of working at the School of Medicine and Dentistry at Griffith University. Current and recent openings include Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Clinical Education for General Practice and Primary Health Care (part-time, Southport), Associate Professor in Clinical Education, and senior positions like Dean of Dentistry. These fixed-term and ongoing roles involve delivering innovative curriculum, supervising simulations, and assessing student progress in the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Bachelor of Dental Health Science, and postgraduate clinical dentistry programs.

Lecturers contribute to phases of the MD program, from foundational sciences to capstone clinical readiness blocks. Responsibilities encompass small-group facilitation, developing reflective practice skills, and integrating First Peoples Health content. Salaries for lecturers range from approximately AUD$108,000 to $129,000 base, plus 17% superannuation, with higher levels for senior roles up to $184,000 for associate professors. The school values educators who blend teaching with scholarship, offering pathways to promotion through demonstrated impact in curriculum innovation and student outcomes.

• Design and deliver lectures on anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical skills.
• Mentor undergraduate students in dental hygiene, prosthetics, and technology programs.
• Participate in interprofessional learning with paramedicine and public health peers.
• Engage in continuous professional development, including cultural safety training.

These positions appeal to early-career academics seeking to build portfolios while benefiting from Griffith's supportive mentorship structures.

Research Opportunities Driving Innovation

Research is a cornerstone, with the Deputy Head (Research) leading efforts in dentistry healing technologies, pre-eclampsia prevention, alcohol-related health economics, and dementia education. Recent NHMRC grants totaling nearly $3 million underscore funding availability. Higher Degree by Research (HDR) supervision thrives, supported by collaborations with the National Institute of Health Innovation.

Research fellows and professors investigate light therapy for post-dental healing, low-sodium alternatives for hypertension, and tobacco marketing bans' impacts. For researchers, working here offers access to cutting-edge labs in the Ian O'Connor Building, publication opportunities in high-impact journals, and 40-40-20 workload models allocating time for research. NHMRC Fellows like Dr. Leopold Aminde exemplify career progression, with roles blending investigation and teaching.

The accreditation report praises research integration into teaching, encouraging staff to pursue grants and scholarly activities. External links to Griffith Experts directory facilitate collaborations, positioning researchers at the forefront of health advancements. Explore the school's research strengths.

Clinical Education and Practitioner Roles

Clinical educators thrive in partnerships with hospitals and clinics, supervising placements in the General Practice Longitudinal Program (GPLP) and Rural Clinical School. Roles like Clinical Title Holders involve precepting students in real-patient care, from scale-and-cleans to implant rehabilitations at the Griffith Dental Clinic. The clinic, staffed by students and qualified dentists, provides hands-on training while serving the community affordably.

Dental assistants and prosthodontics specialists support operations, with salaries around $107,000 for dentists. The Tooth be told initiative trials needle-free dentistry, offering clinicians innovative platforms. Supervisors receive orientation, handbooks, and funded teaching time, ensuring high-quality placements across diverse sites including rural Toowoomba's new 2026 program.

• Orient students to clinical scenarios with simulated patients.
• Assess procedural skills like cannulation pre-independence.
• Contribute to health equity training for LGBTQIA+ and CALD patients.
• Participate in Rural Longlook for immersive experiences.

Support and Administrative Careers

Beyond academics, professional staff roles in school management, clinic operations, and student support are vital. The School Manager oversees daily functions, while project officers embed Indigenous content. These positions offer stability, salary packaging, and flexible arrangements, contributing to a holistic team dynamic.

Administrative professionals handle HDR enrichment, newsletter production, and alumni networks, fostering global connections. Griffith's commitment to First Peoples progression creates inclusive pathways, with confidential support for diverse applicants.

Comprehensive Benefits and Compensation

Griffith University provides competitive remuneration, with academic levels scaled progressively. Base salaries include super at 17%, salary sacrificing for health insurance, and four health plans. Generous leave, flexible work, and study programs support career longevity.

Corporate discounts, salary packaging, and wellness initiatives prioritize staff health. The 2025 salary rates document outlines increments, ensuring transparency. Learn more about Griffith employment benefits.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Culture

Glassdoor ratings average 4.0/5, praising friendly colleagues, work-life balance (3.9/5), and culture. Employees note supportive environments despite bureaucracy, with Gold Coast's beachside campuses enhancing lifestyle. Solution Squad addresses issues proactively, and 24/7 wellbeing lines support mental health.

Diversity thrives, with First Peoples mentoring and LGBTQIA+ allyship. Reviews highlight rewarding projects and community impact, though career progression varies by department.

Recent Developments Shaping the Future

2026 launches a dedicated rural medical program in Toowoomba, expanding opportunities. News highlights include dementia education calls (April 2026), pre-eclampsia studies (March 2026), and light therapy for dentistry (July 2025). The accreditation report commends facilities and wellbeing strategies, with actions like cultural training enhancing workplaces. Stay updated on school news.

Navigating the Application Process

Applications via Griffith's jobs portal require tailored CVs, addressing selection criteria. Casual, fixed-term, and continuing roles suit various stages. Networking through alumni events and experts.griffith.edu.au aids entry. Connect with Griffith experts.

Prepare for interviews emphasizing teaching philosophy, research vision, and cultural competency. Indigenous applicants benefit from targeted pathways.

Future Outlook and Growth Potential

With aging populations and health challenges, the school eyes expansion in dementia care, mental health integrations, and rural training. Professionals can anticipate leadership roles, grant successes, and global partnerships. Working at the School of Medicine and Dentistry at Griffith University promises purpose-driven careers amid Queensland's innovation hub.

Photo by W K on Unsplash