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Associate Professor of Anatomy

Job ID: 494293

Applications close Sunday 17 May 2026

For enquiries: Professor Deanne Hryciw, Discipline Lead and Professor of Biomedical Sciences

Work area: School of Health

Location: Moreton Bay Campus, Petrie or Sunshine Coast Campus, Sippy Downs

Classification: Academic Level D

Supervisor: Professor Deanne Hryciw, Discipline Lead and Professor of Biomedical Sciences

Employment: Full-time, ongoing appointment

Position description: 

Associate Professor in Anatomy

Position overview

You will contribute to high-quality teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate anatomy, providing leadership in curriculum design and engaging learning experiences, while supporting research student supervision. You will also build and strengthen partnerships with industry, government and community to enhance outcomes for students, research and the University.

This role is key to strengthening the School of Health’s academic profile through excellent teaching, growth in student enrolments, and the development of impactful research that increases income, outputs and engagement in line with the University’s strategic priorities.

About

About the Role

The Associate Professor in Anatomy works as part of the Biomedical Science academic team and makes contributions to the teaching effort of the University, in particular to courses in anatomy that are focussed on, but not limited to foundational anatomy as well as advanced anatomical studies, supporting undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The Associate Professor carries out activities to develop their scholarly research and professional expertise relevant to the strategic and operational needs of the School.

Primary Objectives

  1. Lead a strong program of scholarly research, securing competitive funding, guiding significant projects and mentoring emerging researchers, while contributing knowledge that advances the discipline.
  2. Deliver and lead high quality learning and teaching, shaping engaging curricula and learning experiences that inspire students and support excellent teaching practice.
  3. Build meaningful partnerships with industry, government and community, creating collaborations that deliver positive outcomes for the University and our region.
  4. Contribute to leadership and governance within the School and University, supporting collegial collaboration and a positive, inclusive academic culture.

Key Accountabilities

Specific accountabilities for this role include:

1. The University aims to build research productivity and output significantly.  Research is a scholarly practice that includes:

  • National leadership, and sometimes international leadership in their field
  • purposefully developing focused expertise in a discipline/field
  • developing a clear research agenda and leading and participating in research teams
  • framing research problems and researchable hypotheses
  • designing, leading and conducting research projects and writing research reports
  • successfully applying for research grants, particularly external competitive grants
  • communicating research outcomes to both expert and lay audiences through publishing, exhibiting and performing, and subjecting outcomes to peer appraisal
  • mentoring other researchers, particularly Early Career Researchers and Early Career Academics
  • successfully supervising Higher Degree by Research candidates 
  • developing and maintaining strategic research partnerships 
  • developing and exploiting intellectual property
  • being invited to conduct research with colleagues at other universities and give addresses in various research and research training fora in recognition of excellence in research in the discipline/field, and
  • making sound leadership contributions to the development and maintenance of a positive academic environment that is conducive to high levels of engagement and standards of performance in research

2. The University is committed to delivering high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes.  Teaching is a scholarly practice that includes:

  • maintaining currency in one’s discipline/field
  • maintaining currency in effective learning and teaching practices, especially in one’s discipline/field
  • designing, developing, evaluating and improving curricula and teaching
  • making use of appropriate technologies and media to support and enhance learning, teaching, assessment and evaluation 
  • engaging students in learning in a variety of modes including: face-to-face (lecturing, tutoring, conducting workshops, simulations and in laboratories) and learning supported by online tools that enhance knowledge construction, collaboration, communication and engagement
  • supporting students to be successful learners
  • assessing, and giving fair, helpful and timely feedback on students’ work 
  • leading learning and teaching development processes within and beyond the University
  • high quality administration of teaching
  • developing and maintaining strategic partnerships that enhance the quality of learning and teaching within the University and beyond
  • conducting “practitioner research” into learning and teaching and communicating the outcomes of that research, particularly in quality refereed journals 
  • being invited to teach at other universities and give addresses in various learning and teaching fora in recognition of excellence in learning and teaching in one’s discipline/field, and
  • making sound leadership contributions to the maintenance of a positive academic environment that is conducive to high levels of engagement and standards of performance in learning and teaching

3. The University is committed to regional, national and international engagement and articulates the importance of partnerships and ongoing consultation and cooperation with a broad and diverse range of stakeholders.  External engagement is a scholarly practice through which academic staff apply their discipline knowledge and skills to problems in the world.  Through external engagement, worthwhile social, civic and professional functions are performed.  

4. Engagement within the University enables academic staff to contribute to defining and achieving the University’s strategic priorities through activities other than teaching and research.

5. Contribute to a positive and safe work environment for you and others, by modelling and promoting conduct that is culturally capable, inclusive, respectful, and ethical.

6. Other duties within the range of skills normally associated with this classification, including those associated with an evolving research, teaching, learning and professional environment, as required.

Selection Criteria

Applicants need to demonstrate they meet the following knowledge, skills and experience:

1. Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field and comprehensive experience as an academic leader.

2. Evidence of involvement in, and impact on, the development of their discipline/field.

3. A clear and coherent research program with: a strong track record of active, sustained and productive engagement in high quality research; publicly verifiable outputs and outcomes from research; external recognition of research performance and achievement; quality supervision of candidates for Higher Degrees by Research; and impact of research.

4. Quality research leadership, for example through: effective mentoring to develop the research capability and capacity of individual and teams of Early Career Researchers and Early Career Academics; leadership contributions that strengthen research capacity, capability and culture; and service on national discipline panels, such ARC panels of experts and other assessment panels.

5. Effectiveness as a teacher, which is evidenced by both exemplary teaching practice and leadership in teaching, the ultimate outcome of which is student engagement and success.  For example, by:

  • leadership and/or implementation of research-led approaches to learning and teaching in the design and development of curricula 
  • leadership of learning and teaching development processes which improve teaching practice within and/or beyond the University 
  • formal recognition for excellence in learning and teaching

6. Positive leadership contributions and personal qualities that influence the development and maintenance of a positive academic environment which is conducive to high levels of engagement and standards of achievement for both staff and students.

7. Extensive experience and success in academic administrative functions within a University.

8. The ability to develop and maintain productive regional, national and international partnerships that benefit students, the community and the University.

Desirable

9. Postgraduate qualifications in higher education.

10. Formal external and/or internal recognition for excellence in learning and teaching and/or research.

Recruitment process

How to apply

Your application should include:

  • a resume, and a response to selection criteria. Noting that within the application form, we will request a statement addressing each of the selection criteria contained within the position description.

Closing date 

Applications close: midnight (AEST) Sunday 17 May 2026

Contact 

If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:

Professor Deanne Hryciw, Discipline Lead and Professor of Biomedical Sciences

Candidates may be requested to undergo psychometric testing and give permission for verification of their tertiary qualifications.

Prospective candidates interested in applying for this position must demonstrate eligibility to work full-time in Australia. Employment sponsorship opportunities are available for qualified candidates.

The environment

At the forefront of health education and research, the School of Health at UniSC offers an exceptional learning environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology. Our modern laboratories, simulated paramedic suites, and nursing and midwifery wards provide students with hands-on experience that closely mirrors real-world scenarios, preparing them for successful careers in health care.

Under the guidance of our world-class researchers and industry experts, students have the opportunity to pursue their research passions and contribute to impactful discoveries. Our comprehensive range of study programs covers various fields within the health sector, including biomedical science, midwifery, nursing, nutrition and dietetics, occupational therapy, paramedicine, psychology, public health, and sport and exercise science. Each program is designed with a focus on international, regional, and community health priorities, ensuring that our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to make meaningful contributions to the health and wellbeing of diverse populations.

As a passionate and dedicated team of health professionals, we are committed to  excellence in both education and research. Our research endeavors have been recognised with numerous accolades, including $4 million in awarded funding, 539 publications, and the supervision of 139 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students. With 62 full-time equivalent (FTE) academic staff members and a portfolio of 55 awarded projects, we continue to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in the field of health.

Join us at the School of Health at UniSC as we work together to advance knowledge,  promote wellness, and create positive change in our communities. With an enrollment of over 7,000 students, our vibrant academic community is fueled by a shared passion for improving health outcomes and making a difference in the world. 

Innovation and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do. Our team is dedicated to advancing the field through impactful research and engaging, applied teaching. With a strong emphasis on mentorship and academic growth, we foster a supportive and inspiring environment that encourages curiosity, creativity and continuous learning. Our commitment to improving health outcomes is matched by a culture of collegiality and mutual respect. Here, your ideas are valued, your expertise is strengthened, and your passion for advancing knowledge and education is both recognised and supported.

The University of the Sunshine Coast is structured around its areas of expertise. UniSC has five schools that cover health, business and creative industries, science, technology and engineering, law and society and education.

In 2026 UniSC is Celebrating 30 years. From our first campus at Sippy Downs which began welcoming students in 1996, UniSC has rapidly expanded its campus footprint to now include five award-winning campuses across South East Queensland, from Petrie in Moreton Bay to the Fraser Coast and UniSC Adelaide.

UniSC has undergone a significant evolution of our learning and teaching to improve the reach and impact of classes. It has offered more students access to a range of learning materials that are relevant and more meaningful than the traditional lecture. Examples include podcasts, interviews, simulations, screencasts, recorded discussions and formative quizzes, along with seminars, that are dependent on the learning outcomes of each individual course.

Whilst learning materials are delivered through the University’s learning management system, student engagement is achieved either on-campus in a blended mode – with on-campus tutorials, practicals, seminars and laboratories – or through an online experience.

At UniSC research spans multiple disciplines. Our teams pursue and share new knowledge and collective understanding, and bold solutions that bring about real impact and positive change that helps move everyone forward. Across our campuses, the next generation of researchers are answering some of today’s most pressing issues, focused on ensuring healthier people and a healthier planet. UnISC has 6 world leading research Institutes including: the Thompson Institute - with a focus on mental health and wellbeing and the recently opened National Centre for PTSD research; Centre for Bioinnovation - contributing to drug discovery, disease diagnostics and therapeutics; and the Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research - committed to co-designing research projects and evidence-based solutions with Pacific Island communities.

The University of the Sunshine Coast is structured around its areas of expertise. UniSC has five schools that cover health, business and creative industries, science, technology and engineering, law and society and education.

In 2023, we introduced new health-focused programs, including those in prosthetics, orthotics, and medical laboratory science. Looking ahead, we plan to expand our offerings further in 2024 and 2025 with the introduction of a physiotherapy program and postgraduate options in dietetics.

At the start of 2024, our most popular areas of study are nursing, education, mental health and psychology, paramedicine and business. 

From our first campus in Sippy Downs which began welcoming students in 1996, UniSC has rapidly expanded its campus footprint to now include five award-winning campuses across South East Queensland, from Moreton Bay to the Fraser Coast and UniSC Adelaide.

Our online offering has grown dramatically with almost 7,500 students enrolled in 2023 and 58 programs on offer in 2024. Delivery of learning to students is managed through the schools within a common set of principles.

UniSC has undergone a significant evolution of our learning and teaching to improve the reach and impact of classes. It has offered students access to a range of learning materials that are relevant and more meaningful than the traditional lecture.

Examples include podcasts, interviews, simulations, screencasts, recorded discussions and formative quizzes, along with seminars, that are dependent on the learning outcomes of each individual course. Whilst learning materials are delivered through the University’s learning management system, student engagement is achieved either on-campus in a blended mode – with on-campus tutorials, practicals, seminars and laboratories – or through an online experience.

UniSC is home to some of the most advanced facilities in Australia, including simulated nursing and paramedic labs, advanced engineering technologies, and state-of-the-art creative industries’ facilities. Our modern laboratories and equipment replicate real life working environments, so students graduate work-ready.

A better tomorrow starts today

 

Tomorrow is an exciting place. It’s also a place full of unprecedented global challenges. With future-focused degrees, world-leading sustainability research and 5-star teaching,* we share our knowledge, experience and tools to create a better tomorrow for all.

*Good Universities Guide 2023/24

The Organisation

UniSC’s organisational structure supports its ambitious agenda. Strong portfolios and flat, clear reporting lines facilitate accountability, flexibility and responsiveness.

Key statistics

A young university at the epicentre of progress. We’re a growing, comprehensive university focused on excellent teaching, ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, and producing award-winning alumni.

Our rankings

We’re a growing, comprehensive university focused on excellent teaching, ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, and producing award-winning alumni. 

Annual Report

View our achievements, challenges and performance against key indicators in our Annual Report.

Strategic Plan 

Our vision is to be Australia’s premier regional university. Our strategic plan outlines how we will achieve this vision. UniSC’s journey has been exceptional in achievement as a community-focused higher education institution. 

Locations

UniSC stands as the world's sole university with campuses situated within three interconnected UNESCO biosphere reserves and the UNESCO World Heritage Listed K’gari.

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