Grant Funded Researcher - Implementation & Qualitative Methods

Adelaide CBD, SA, Australia, 5000

Fixed term - Full-time

Fixed term - Part-time

Level B

Based with the BetterStart Group, School of Public Health at Adelaide University

Salary Range: $111,221 - $138,311

Full-time / Part time (0.8-1.0 FTE), 2-year fixed term contract

Support the design and delivery of qualitative and implementation research to shape the future of early childhood education in South Australia

This position will contribute to a nationally significant evaluation of South Australia's Preschool Plus program. As a key member of the research team, the role will lead and support qualitative and implementation-focused research, engage with government, service providers and families, and help generate evidence to strengthen outcomes for children and families across South Australia.

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

The role contributes to a major evaluation of South Australia’s Preschool Plus reform, generating evidence to inform policy, practice and service delivery, with the aim of improving outcomes for children, families and communities across the state.

The team

The Grant Funded Researcher - Implementation & Qualitative Methods reports to the project Leadership Team within the BetterStart Group, at Adelaide University. The position supports the University’s commitment to impactful research by generating evidence that informs government decision-making and strengthens outcomes for children, families and communities.

Visit the AU website to learn more about BetterStart Group | 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.

The BetterStart Group is co-led by Professor John Lynch, Associate Professor Rhiannon Pilkington, Alicia Montgomerie and Associate Professor Catia Malvaso. This evaluation is being delivered in partnership with the Fraser Mustard Centre, led by Professor Sally Brinkman. Together, the BetterStart Group and Fraser Mustard Centre bring internationally recognised expertise in child development, early childhood education and care, population data, policy, implementation and research translation.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, collaboration and meaningful impact. You will work across research, policy and practice settings, engaging with government, service providers, communities, and researchers to generate evidence that informs real-world change for children and families.

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:

Tertiary qualifications or equivalent work experience in implementation science, qualitative research, public health, education, public policy or a similar field

Demonstrated experience applying implementation science and/or evaluation frameworks in complex service systems

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with government, community, and service-sector stakeholders in complex environments

Experience with data collection and analysis (qualitative)

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to synthesise complex information for diverse audiences

Essential minimum criteria

Tertiary qualifications, or demonstrated work experience in implementation science, qualitative research, public health, public policy or a similar field

Experience applying implementation science and/or evaluation frameworks in complex service systems

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with government, community, and service-sector stakeholders in complex environments

Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities

Experience with data collection and analysis (qualitative)

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to synthesise complex information for diverse audiences

Commitment to equity, inclusion, and improving outcomes for children and families

Desired characteristics

Experience working in or with the early childhood education and care sector

Experience with data collection and analysis (quantitative)

Familiarity with early years education and care reform

Understanding of ethical research practices and data governance

Experience working with Aboriginal communities and/or culturally and linguistically diverse populations

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

A written response addressing the selection criteria outlined above

Submit your application by 11:30pm Sunday 12 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 493204):

Emma Kelvin, Talent Attraction Adviser

+61 8 8302 0482 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au

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

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.