Head of School, Social Science

Job Description:

• School of Social Science – Faculty of HASS
• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 5 years at Academic Level E
• Based at our picturesque St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of Australia’s leading social science schools. As Head of School, Social Science, you will provide visionary academic and people leadership across a multidisciplinary environment spanning sociology, criminology, anthropology and archaeology. Reporting to the Executive Dean, you will set and enact a clear, deliberate strategy that strengthens student demand, sustains research excellence and deepens the School’s impact on communities locally, nationally and globally.

Leading a collegial and highly engaged academic and professional team, you will balance strategic ambition with thoughtful stewardship. You will champion a strong and inclusive school culture, support innovative teaching and research, and act as a visible advocate for the value of social sciences. Central to the role is building meaningful partnerships, including Indigenous engagement embedded across disciplines, and positioning the School confidently in a rapidly changing higher education landscape. At UQ, you will be supported to lead with purpose, curiosity and courage, creating change together.

For more information about this opportunity, please click here to view the complete appointment booklet

About You

You are a respected academic leader with an international reputation in a discipline aligned to the School’s strengths, and a profile consistent with appointment at Academic Level E. You bring credibility as an active researcher and educator, alongside a genuine appreciation of the diverse ways social science research and teaching create value for society. You are energised by complexity and motivated to lead through collaboration, trust and clarity.

As an empathetic and effective people leader, you have demonstrated success in shaping positive culture, developing staff at all career stages and navigating change with integrity. You are comfortable balancing research intensity with financial sustainability, advocating for your School within the broader institution, and engaging confidently with Indigenous communities, industry, government and the public. You bring a forward-looking mindset, with the ability to articulate a compelling identity for the School and to inspire others to see what is possible.

Want to Apply?

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Responses to the ‘About You’ section, as listed in the Appointment Booklet
• A vision statement relating to the experience and achievements of the applicant, relating to the purposes and expectations of the role, as listed in the Appointment Booklet

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent, particularly from Australia’s First Nations Peoples. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

Other Information

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, which may include verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications and criminal history checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package, however upfront costs will still be expected to be covered. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close Thursday 28 May 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-63556).

Interviews are anticipated to take place in late July 2026.