"Research Officer"

•  494515
•  Cairns
•  Academic
•  Part time
•  Closing on: Feb 25 2026
• Part time - 25.375 hours per week | Fixed term to 30 April 2028
• Academic Level A $80,371 - $107,395 + 17% Super & great benefits
• Based in tropical Cairns—where lifestyle and career go hand in hand.
•  Drive research shaping disaster resilience and domestic violence response in Far North Queensland
• Work with communities, government and service providers to create real-world impact
• Turn evidence into action through policy briefs, reports and strategic change

Join a research team making a real difference in Far North Queensland and beyond.

We’re seeking a Research Officer to contribute to impactful, multidisciplinary research focused on disaster resilience, domestic and family violence, and community recovery. This role sits within the FNQ Disaster and Domestic Violence Project and supports work exploring the intersection of disasters and vulnerable populations, with outcomes that shape policy, practice and community resilience.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting the delivery of funded research projects from data collection to reporting
• Conducting literature reviews and assisting with qualitative and/or quantitative data activities
• Preparing reports, policy briefs and conference materials
• Contributing to ethics applications, compliance and data management
• Engaging with community organisations, government and service providers
• Assisting with future grant development opportunities

About you

You will be near completion or hold a PhD (or equivalent research experience) in regional development, social sciences, health, disaster resilience or a related field.

You bring:

• Strong research foundations (literature searching, data handling, reporting)
• Experience working with or researching vulnerable populations
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• The ability to manage competing priorities in a collaborative research environment

An understanding of the Far North Queensland context and regional service delivery challenges will be highly regarded.

Why work at JCU

As Australia’s university for the Tropics, JCU offers a purpose-driven, collaborative environment where your leadership will have a meaningful impact on medical education and workforce outcomes across regional Australia.

• 5 weeks annual leave + leave loading
• Flexible work arrangements
• Up to 12 Months paid parental leave
• Salary packaging options
• Paid study leave & staff development programs
• Fitness Passport & health insurance discounts
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching & counselling)

How To Apply

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:

• Complete the application form
• Upload your current resume
• 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. 

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Professor Hurriyet Babacan on 0413 819 884 or via emailhurriyet.babacan@jcu.edu.au