"AFWI Research Fellow in Social License for Forest Management"

Role type: Full-Time; Fixed term for 12 months

Faculty: Faculty of Science

Department/School: School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences

Salary: Level A: $85,555 - 116,094 p.a. plus 17% super

• Shape sustainable forestry practices
• Apply now to drive social acceptability in forest management and contribute to Australia's sustainable timber future
• Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

As an AFWI Research Fellow in Social License for Forest Management, you'll conduct innovative social science research to guide sustainable forestry practices. You'll collaborate with academic, industry, and government partners, analysing data and engaging stakeholders to develop a framework for regional forestry investment. This role offers you the chance to shape Australia's climate-smart forestry sector whilst gaining valuable experience in sustainable resource management and regional innovation.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Conduct Innovative Research: Undertake internationally competitive research, focusing on social acceptability and maintaining social license in forestry management.
• Publish and Disseminate Findings: Contribute to high-impact academic publications and present research at seminars and conferences.
• Engage with Stakeholders: Liaise with industry, government, and community partners to gather data and refine the investment framework.
• Support Research Training: Contribute to the supervision and mentoring of research students, primarily at the undergraduate level.

You may be a great fit if: You are a passionate social scientist with a strong research background, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to drive sustainable forestry practices and regional development.

You may also:

• Hold a PhD (or be near completion) in a relevant social science discipline, such as environmental sociology or natural resource management.
• Have experience in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods relevant to social license and stakeholder engagement.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills for academic publications and stakeholder interactions.
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Be willing to undertake fieldwork in the Gippsland region and participate in extended field trips within Victoria.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.