"Research Fellow, Indigenous Health Promotion"

• 494694
• Cairns
• Academic
• Research
• Full time
• Closing on: Apr 12 2026

Position Description

• Full time - 36.25 hpw
• Fixed term to 30 June 2028
• Based in Cairns
• Academic Level B - $109,791 - $129,547 + 17% Super & great benefits
• Drive meaningful impact through community-led Indigenous health promotion across the Torres Strait.
• Work in partnership with communities to co-design and deliver culturally grounded health initiatives.
• Grow your research career within a supportive, collaborative team led by a nationally recognised Indigenous health leader.

James Cook University (JCU) is seeking a dedicated Research Fellow, Indigenous Health Promotion to support impactful, community-led health promotion research across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area. This role contributes to an NHMRC Investigator Grant and the broader Indigenous Health Promotion and Capacity Building program led by Professor Karla Canuto.

Working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government agencies and health organisations, you will help co-design, implement and evaluate community-led health promotion initiatives, strengthen local research capability, and contribute to high-quality research outputs.

What you’ll do:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with project partners, communities and key stakeholders.
• Contribute to co-designed, community-led health promotion initiatives, including implementation and evaluation.
• Prepare reports, publications and knowledge translation outputs and support national and international dissemination.
• Support and mentor Research Assistants, HDR students and emerging researchers.
• Ensure research activities comply with NHMRC, AVCC and Indigenous research principles, including the Masig Statement.

About you:

• Postgraduate qualification in Public Health, Health Promotion or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health or community-based research contexts.
• Strong experience in co-design, community-led research and partnership development.
• Sound knowledge of ethical research standards and Indigenous research principles.
• Ability to work respectfully and collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Special requirements:

The role requires travel to the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area, occasional work outside standard hours, and the ability to hold a Blue Card.

How to Apply

This is an opportunity to make a real difference by supporting culturally grounded, community-driven health promotion that strengthens health outcomes and research capability across the region.

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role. 

Further information is available by contacting Professor Karla Canuto on (07) 4232 1570 or via email to karla.canuto@jcu.edu.au

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community, and are committed to ensuring our community, and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.