Position Vacant: Academic Administrator (Research)

2 April 2026

Whitley College is seeking an Academic Administrator (Research) to support and strengthen the research life of the College.

This role sits at the heart of Whitley’s research community, working closely with the Dean of Research to ensure the effective coordination, communication, and administration of research activity. It is a role that enables scholarship to flourish, supports faculty and research students, and contributes to the wider academic life of the College.

If you are an organised and relational administrator who values the role of research in shaping theology, ministry, and public life, we invite you to consider this opportunity.

About the Role

The Academic Administrator (Research) provides primary administrative support to the Dean of Research, enabling the effective operation of research activities at Whitley College. This is a part-time position (up to 0.6EFT), with a two-year fixed term.

The role also supports Faculty and College Academic Committee processes and, during peak periods, may provide administrative assistance to the Academic Registrar.

Key Responsibilities

Administrative Support to the Dean of Research:

• Provide administrative support across research management and coordination
• Maintain research databases, records, and filing systems
• Coordinate research seminars, workshops, public lectures, symposia, and conferences
• Assist with budget monitoring and invoice processing
• Undertake additional duties as directed

Communication and Liaison:

• Act as a key point of contact for research-related enquiries
• Support research communications including newsletters and updates
• Coordinate communication between the Dean of Research, faculty, and HDR students

Support for Academic and Registry Functions:

• Provide administrative support to the Student Registry Office during peak periods
• Support Academic Dean with committee processes including minute-taking

Faculty Meetings:

• Assist with agenda preparation and documentation
• Take and circulate minutes and materials

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience in academic or research administration
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office or equivalent
• Experience coordinating meetings and events
• High attention to detail and confidentiality awareness

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of higher education research processes
• Understanding of research compliance and ethics
• Familiarity with theological education contexts

Qualifications

Essential:

• Completion of Year 12 or equivalent
• Certificate III or IV in Business Administration or equivalent experience

Desirable:

• Tertiary qualification in business, administration, or related field

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF DIVINITY

Whitley College is part of the University of Divinity, a collegiate university committed to the highest standards of scholarship in theology, philosophy, and ministry, engaging the issues of the contemporary world through rigorous academic inquiry.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants are encouraged to:

• Familiarise themselves with this position description;
• Submit a covering letter and CV demonstrating their suitability for the role;
• Provide clear examples of relevant experience and capability.

Enquiries are welcome and may involve conversation with the Dean of Research, Sean Winter, at swinter@whitley.edu.au, as part of a process of mutual discovery and discernment.

Applications should be addressed to Rev. Associate Professor Darrell Jackson, Principal of Whitley College, at principal@whitley.edu.au by Friday, June 5th, 2026.

Position Description: Academic Administrator (Research)