Industry Chairs and Industry Fellows
AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures
Job IDs:
493928 - Industry Chair of System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber Production
493929 - Industry Chair of Advanced Engineered and Composite Wood Products
493930 - Industry Fellow in Healthy and Productive Forests Through Effective Indigenous-Led Partnerships
493931 - Industry Fellow in Total Fibre Recovery and Value Chain Innovation
Applications close: 11:55pm (AEST), Tuesday 6 January 2026
For enquiries: Professor Mark Brown, Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI UniSC Centre
Work area: Australian Forest and Wood Innovations Centre for Sustainable Futures
Classification:
- Industry Chairs: Level D $168,933 - $186,045 or Level E $217,414 p.a.
- Industry Fellows: Level C $140,415 - $161,809 or Level D $168,933 - $186,045 p.a.
Supervisor: Professor Mark Brown, Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI UniSC Centre
Employment: Full-time, five-year fixed-term appointments
Position Descriptions:
Industry Chair of System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber Production
Industry Chair of Advanced Engineered and Composite Wood Products
Industry Fellow in Healthy and Productive Forests Through Effective Indigenous-Led Partnerships
Industry Fellow in Total Fibre Recovery and Value Chain Innovation
Overview
We are seeking experienced industry-focused researchers to help drive innovation and practical solutions across Australia’s forest and wood products sector. These Industry Chair and Fellow roles will contribute expertise that strengthens sustainability, productivity, and long-term sector growth.
Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) is a recently established national research institute committed to fulfilling the Australian Government’s promise of establishing a National Institute for Forest Products Innovation across the country. AFWI headquarters is based at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) and has three regional research centres to undertake forestry research and development, including the AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures housed right here at the University of the Sunshine Coast. The two other Centres are based at the University of Melbourne, and UTAS.
The AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures (AFWICSF) at the University of the Sunshine Coast is part of the national Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) network, supporting research and innovation in Australia’s forest and wood products sector. The Centre works alongside industry, government, and academic partners to advance sustainable forestry, maximise wood fibre use, and deliver climate-smart solutions. AFWICSF focuses on forest health and productivity, value-added products, supply chain efficiency, and integrated innovation, contributing to the national goal of growing a resilient, future-focused forest and wood products industry.
In these roles, you will collaborate across the national AFWI network, working closely with industry, government, and research partners on projects with real impact. You’ll have the opportunity to influence sector-wide transformation and contribute to a more resilient, climate-smart future for Australia’s forests and wood products industry.
AFWICSF Vision
In collaboration with industry and research leaders, our AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures focuses on innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in forestry and wood product sectors. Our Centre's research focuses on three key goals:
Objective:
Optimise the management of existing forests to increase sustainable timber production while enhancing opportunities to realise value in carbon and biodiversity.
Key Focus Areas:
- Tree improvement: Optimising plantation production through precision management combined with effective species and genetics matched to site and climate, for enhanced growth and resilience.
- Advanced Forest Management: Improving silvicultural techniques, thinning practices, and harvesting efficiencies.
- Resource Maximisation: Enhancing wood value recovery, segregation, and processing efficiency.
- Supply Chain Optimisation: Reducing carbon footprint and increasing logistics efficiency using digital technologies, AI, and automation.
- Forest Health & Risk Management: Managing pests, diseases, fire, and natural disaster resilience.
Aim:
Double the high value recovered timber yield from existing forest resources in the next rotation while enhancing resilience and additional asset values in carbon and biodiversity.
Objective:
Identify and promote sustainable opportunities for afforestation, agroforestry, and other land-use strategies that integrate timber production.
Key Focus Areas:
- Silvopastoral and Farm Forestry Systems: Exploring economically viable timber production models for agricultural and grazing landscapes.
- Tree improvement: Optimising timber production through precision management combined with effective species and genetics matched to site and climate, for enhanced growth and resilience.
- New Plantation Establishment Business and Economics: Identifying suitable regions, investment strategies, and management techniques to expand timber supply. Consider carbon and ecosystem service integration, exploring carbon sequestration and biodiversity co-benefits in timber production landscapes including how to efficiently & effectively measure, monitor, and monetise different values.
- First Nations Forestry Partnerships: Supporting Indigenous-led plantation development and sustainable land management.
Aim:
Reduce Australia's timber import dependence by 50% in the next rotation through the establishment of new, sustainably managed plantings that integrate timber production with agriculture and other land management activities.
Objective:
Enhance the performance and adoption of engineered wood products to support sustainable construction.
Key Focus Areas:
- Advanced Engineered Wood Products: Developing and testing new materials and structural solutions including hybrid and mixed material building components and systems.
- Sustainability in Construction: Supporting emissions reduction through timber-based building materials.
- Circular Economy Solutions: Optimising reuse, re-purposing, and recyclability of wood and other waste and residue materials.
- Digital & AI Integration in Timber Processing: Leveraging smart technologies to enhance production efficiency.
Aim:
Double the use of domestically sourced timber in the building industry by 2050 through greater resource recovery, and higher value use of residues and underutilised wood fibre.
Industry Chair System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber Production
About
Primary objectives of the position
The Industry Chair in System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber Production provides leadership across Program 1, Program 2, and Program 3, driving productivity, sustainability, and value creation in the forestry and timber sector.
In Program 1, the Industry Chair optimises existing forest resources through advanced silvicultural techniques, precision management, and AI-enabled predictive modelling, increasing high-value timber yield while enhancing carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and forest resilience.
Within Program 2, the Industry Chair supports the establishment of new plantations and integrated land-use systems, applying data-driven decision-making, tree improvement strategies, and sustainable plantation economics to reduce Australia’s timber import dependence and foster First Nations forestry partnerships.
In Program 3, the Industry Chair leverages digital technologies and AI to improve timber processing, maximise resource recovery, and facilitate the adoption of engineered wood products for sustainable construction.
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
-
- development of a clear research agenda and purposefully build expertise in the discipline;
- frame research problems and hypotheses; design, lead, and conduct research projects;
- communicate outcomes to both expert and lay audiences through publications, exhibitions, and presentations;
- successfully supervise Higher Degree by Research candidates;
- develop and maintain strategic research partnerships and exploit intellectual property.
2. Engagement and institutional contribution including:
-
- participation in regional, national, and international engagement through strategic partnerships and consultation;
- contribute to university priorities beyond teaching and research;
- promote a positive, safe, culturally capable, inclusive, and ethical work environment;
- undertake other duties consistent with the classification and evolving academic environment.
At Level D, duties also include:
3. Demonstration of national leadership in the discipline, with outputs acknowledged as noteworthy by peers.
4. Mentorship and provide leadership primarily to Early Career Researchers and Early Career Academics.
5. Engagement with external partners to achieve national impact, contributing to the University’s reputation and regional development.
6. Make sound leadership contributions to maintaining a positive academic environment that supports engagement and high performance in research and teaching.
At Level E, duties also include:
7. Demonstration of international leadership and be recognised as an eminent authority in the discipline, with achievements of international significance.
8. Mentorship of researchers including both Mid- and Early Career Researchers, providing leadership in large or multi-institution research teams.
9. Lead strategic innovation in teaching, including policy development, high-level management, and internationally recognised scholarship in teaching.
10. Engagement achieves sustained excellence with major outcomes and high prestige for the University, including service on national and international panels and significant socio-economic, cultural, or environmental impact.
11. Consistently make high-level, strategic contributions to University governance, capacity-building, and fostering academic and professional excellence at all levels.
Selection Criteria
Applicants need to demonstrate they meet the following knowledge, skills and experience:
1. Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field, with substantial experience as an academic leader of national (Level D) or international (Level E) standing.
2. A clear and coherent research program demonstrated through strong and sustained leadership of high-quality research, and measurable impact on forestry systems, AI, digital innovation, or timber processing.
3. Evidence of effective supervision of Higher Degree by Research candidates and ongoing contributions to research recognition nationally and/or internationally.
4. Evidence of developing and applying innovative solutions (including AI-enabled or data-driven approaches) and influencing policy to improve forest productivity, supply chain optimisation, timber processing efficiency, or engineered wood product adoption.
5. Demonstrated capacity to develop and sustain strategic collaborations with industry, government, First Nations groups, and research institutions at regional, national, and international levels to deliver sustainable forestry and timber outcomes.
6. Demonstrated success in academic administration, governance, and service that contributes to School and University development.
Specific to Level E
7. Extensive experience as an academic leader with international recognition as an eminent authority and formative impact in the discipline/field.
8. Substantial leadership contributions that strengthen research capacity and culture at University, national, and international levels.
Desirable for Both Levels:
9. Formal external and/or internal recognition for excellence in research and/or teaching.
Recruitment process
How to apply
Your application should include:
- Resume
- A cover letter not to exceed one page.
- A response to key selection criteria within the online application form
Closing date
Applications close: 11:55pm (AEST), Tuesday 6 January 2026
Contact
If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:
Professor Mark Brown
Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI UniSC Centre
Telephone: 07 5459 4483
Email: mbrown2@usc.edu.au
Please note that the University will be closed for the Christmas period from 25 December to 2 January. Any queries received during this time will be triaged, and responded to from Monday, 5 January 2026.
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.
Industry Chair in Advanced Engineered and Composite Wood Products
About
Primary objectives of the position
The Industry Chair in Advanced Engineered and Composite Wood Products contributes expertise that advances the objectives of Program 1 and Program 3.
Within Program 1, the Industry Chair drives the higher-value utilisation of timber by leading innovation in engineered products using residues and underutilised fibre, producing advanced structural components and market-ready materials that strengthen domestic capability and reduce reliance on imported products.
In Program 3, the Industry Chair enhances the performance and adoption of engineered wood products to support sustainable construction, developing hybrid and mixed-material building systems, optimising reuse and recyclability of wood residues, and integrating digital and AI technologies to improve production efficiency. By translating research into commercially viable solutions and fostering collaboration with industry and research partners, this role maximises the sustainability, economic value, and impact of timber-based products across Australia’s built environment.
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
-
- development of a clear research agenda and purposefully build expertise in the discipline;
- frame research problems and hypotheses; design, lead, and conduct research projects;
- communicate outcomes to both expert and lay audiences through publications, exhibitions, and presentations;
- successfully supervise Higher Degree by Research candidates;
- develop and maintain strategic research partnerships and exploit intellectual property.
2. Engagement and institutional contribution including:
-
- participation in regional, national, and international engagement through strategic partnerships and consultation;
- contribute to university priorities beyond teaching and research;
- promote a positive, safe, culturally capable, inclusive, and ethical work environment;
- undertake other duties consistent with the classification and evolving academic environment.
At Level D, duties also include:
3. Demonstration of national leadership in the discipline, with outputs acknowledged as noteworthy by peers.
4. Mentorship and provide leadership primarily to Early Career Researchers and Early Career Academics.
5. Engagement with external partners to achieve national impact, contributing to the University’s reputation and regional development.
6. Make sound leadership contributions to maintaining a positive academic environment that supports engagement and high performance in research and teaching.
At Level E, duties also include:
7. Demonstration of international leadership and be recognised as an eminent authority in the discipline, with achievements of international significance.
8. Mentorship of researchers including both Mid- and Early Career Researchers, providing leadership in large or multi-institution research teams.
9. Lead strategic innovation in teaching, including policy development, high-level management, and internationally recognised scholarship in teaching.
10. Engagement achieves sustained excellence with major outcomes and high prestige for the University, including service on national and international panels and significant socio-economic, cultural, or environmental impact.
11. Consistently make high-level, strategic contributions to University governance, capacity-building, and fostering academic and professional excellence at all levels.
Selection Criteria
1. Completion of a doctoral qualification (or equivalent standing) in timber engineering, wood science, materials engineering, or a related discipline, with national (Level D) or international (Level E) recognition as a leading authority in engineered and composite wood products.
2. A clear and coherent research program, demonstrated by strong and sustained leadership of high-quality research and measurable impact in the areas of engineered timber, composites, or sustainable construction materials.
3. Evidence of effective supervision of Higher Degree by Research candidates and contributions to research reputation nationally and/or internationally.
4. Demonstrated success in translating research into industry-ready applications, including advanced structural components, hybrid/mixed material systems, and circular economy solutions.
5. Evidence of influencing industry practices, policy, or standards to reduce reliance on imported engineered wood products and strengthen sustainable construction outcomes.
6. Demonstrated success in academic administration, governance, and service contributing to School and University development.
Specific to Level E
7. Extensive experience as an academic leader with international recognition as an eminent authority and formative impact in the discipline/field.
8. Substantial leadership contributions that strengthen research capacity and culture at University, national, and international levels.
Desirable for Both Levels:
9. Formal external and/or internal recognition for excellence in research and/or teaching.
Recruitment process
How to apply
Your application should include:
- Resume
- A cover letter not to exceed one page.
- A response to key selection criteria within the online application form
Closing date
Applications close: 11:55pm (AEST), Tuesday 6 January 2026
Contact
If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:
Professor Mark Brown
Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI UniSC Centre
Telephone: 07 5459 4483
Email: mbrown2@usc.edu.au
Please note that the University will be closed for the Christmas period from 25 December to 2 January. Any queries received during this time will be triaged, and responded to from Monday, 5 January 2026.
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.
Industry Fellow in Healthy and Productive Forests Through Effective Indigenous-Led Partnerships
About
Primary objectives of the position
The Industry Fellow in Healthy and Productive Forests Through Effective Indigenous-Led Partnerships aligns to Program 2, advancing Indigenous-led enterprise models that integrate timber production with ecological and cultural knowledge.
This role contributes to the establishment of new, sustainable plantations and afforestation initiatives, supporting First Nations forestry partnerships and fostering co-designed land management approaches. By building national capacity in Indigenous forest governance and promoting culturally grounded, sustainable enterprise models, the Fellow strengthens forest health, biosecurity, and resilience while contributing to the program’s objective of reducing reliance on timber imports.
Key Accountabilities
Specific accountabilities for this role include:
1. Contribute to the University’s strategic priorities through research, teaching, engagement, and service.
2. Actively participate in governance, development, and capacity-building within their School, Institute, or University.
3. Foster and model a positive, inclusive, culturally capable, and ethical work environment.
4. Engage with external stakeholders to apply discipline knowledge and skills to benefit students, the University, and the broader community.
5. Maintain scholarly standards in their discipline/field, including contributing to research outputs, publications, and knowledge dissemination.
6. Participate in activities beyond teaching and research that support the University’s strategic goals.
7. Undertake duties associated with evolving research, teaching, learning, and professional environments as required.
At Level C, duties also include:
8. Make a significant contribution, advancing knowledge and providing leadership in research and research training. This includes developing focused expertise, framing research problems, designing and conducting research projects, communicating outcomes through publishing, and contributing to the development of a positive academic environment.
9. Apply for research grants, particularly external competitive grants, supervise Higher Degree by Research candidates, and lead and manage research projects.
10. Develop and maintain strategic research partnerships, and be invited to conduct research with colleagues at other universities.
11. Create research impact through engaged and collaborative research with industry, government, not-for-profits, or other end-user organisations, including knowledge transfer, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
12. Maintain involvement in professional and community service, such as editing journals, participating in review panels, offering commentary in media, and undertaking consulting projects.
13. Provide service to the University by supporting the definition and achievement of strategic goals, maintaining productive relationships internally and externally, and engaging in activities beyond teaching and research.
14. Participate in duties associated with evolving research and professional environments, which may include undergraduate teaching, supervision of Honours and HDR students, and other tasks as required.
At Level D, duties also include:
8. Demonstrate national (and sometimes international) leadership in research, developing focused expertise, framing research questions, leading research projects, successfully applying for competitive grants, mentoring Early Career Researchers, and supervising Higher Degree by Research candidates.
9. Communicate research outcomes through publishing, exhibitions, performances, and presentations at national or international forums, and develop and exploit intellectual property.
10. Engage externally at regional, national, and international levels, building strategic partnerships and addressing real-world problems through scholarly application of discipline knowledge.
11. Contribute to defining and achieving the University’s strategic priorities through activities beyond research, fostering collegiality and maintaining a positive academic culture.
12. Undertake duties within the range of skills normally associated with evolving research, as required.
Selection Criteria
1. Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field (or equivalent applicable experience).
2. A strong track record of high-quality applied research that integrates ecological, cultural, and commercial forestry practices to enhance forest health, resilience, and sustainable timber production.
3. Demonstrated experience in building respectful, co-designed partnerships with Indigenous communities, including knowledge of Indigenous forest governance frameworks and capacity building at regional and national levels.
4. Experience mentoring or supporting emerging researchers and/or Higher Degree by Research students, with the ability and willingness to develop further supervision practice as opportunities arise.
5. Leadership qualities that foster a positive academic environment, encourage engagement and high standards, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional growth.
6. The ability to develop and sustain productive partnerships with professional bodies, community groups, industry, and other external stakeholders that generate benefits for the University, students, and broader society.
Desirable
7. Lived experience as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person or demonstrated cultural capability and accountability in working with Indigenous peoples.
8. Experience in securing research funding or contributing to successful grant applications, particularly for Indigenous-led or community-partnered projects.
9. Experience in interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary research, particularly approaches that integrate Indigenous knowledge systems with Western science.
10. Demonstrated leadership in mentoring or supporting First Nations students, researchers, or community partners in academic or applied settings.
At Level D, selection criteria also includes:
8. Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field and comprehensive experience as an academic leader
9. Demonstration of national standing in their discipline, with clear evidence of involvement in and impact on the development of their field.
10. Maintains a clear and coherent research program, with sustained, high-quality research outputs, external recognition, and demonstrable impact.
11. Provides research leadership through mentoring Early Career Researchers, strengthening research capacity and culture, and service on national panels.
12. Extensive experience and success in academic administrative functions within a University.
13. Ability to develop and maintain regional, national, and international partnerships.
14. Postgraduate qualifications in higher education and formal recognition for excellence in research (Desirable)
Recruitment process
How to apply
Your application should include:
- Resume
- A cover letter not to exceed one page.
- A response to key selection criteria within the online application form
Closing date
Applications close: 11:55pm (AEST), Tuesday 6 January 2026
Contact
If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:
Professor Mark Brown
Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI UniSC Centre
Telephone: 07 5459 4483
Email: mbrown2@usc.edu.au
Please note that the University will be closed for the Christmas period from 25 December to 2 January. Any queries received during this time will be triaged, and responded to from Monday, 5 January 2026.
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.
Industry Fellow in Total Fibre Recovery and Value Chain Innovation
About
Primary objectives of the position
The Industry Fellow in Total Fibre Recovery and Value Chain Innovation aligns to both Program 1 and Program 2, driving efficiencies and innovation across the supply chain.
Their work directly supports Program 1 by maximising fibre recovery and utilisation through enhanced harvesting, logistics, and processing efficiencies, as well as improving resilience through circular economy approaches.
In Program 2, their national leadership in fibre mobilisation and market responsiveness strengthens the economics of new plantation establishment and agroforestry systems by ensuring efficient fibre flow from grower to processor to end-use bio-products. In doing so, this role enhances both sustainability and commercial value across the forestry sector.
Key Accountabilities
Specific accountabilities for this role include:
1. Contribute to the University’s strategic priorities through research, teaching, engagement, and service.
2. Actively participate in governance, development, and capacity-building within their School, Institute, or University.
3. Foster and model a positive, inclusive, culturally capable, and ethical work environment.
4. Engage with external stakeholders to apply discipline knowledge and skills to benefit students, the University, and the broader community.
5. Maintain scholarly standards in their discipline/field, including contributing to research outputs, publications, and knowledge dissemination.
6. Participate in activities beyond teaching and research that support the University’s strategic goals.
7. Undertake duties associated with evolving research, teaching, learning, and professional environments as required.
At Level C, duties also include:
8. Make a significant contribution as a senior researcher, advancing knowledge and providing leadership in research and research training. This includes developing focused expertise, framing research problems, designing and conducting research projects, communicating outcomes through publishing, and contributing to the development of a positive academic environment.
9. Apply for research grants, particularly external competitive grants, supervise Higher Degree by Research candidates, and lead and manage research projects.
10. Develop and maintain strategic research partnerships, and be invited to conduct research with colleagues at other universities.
11. Create research impact through engaged and collaborative research with industry, government, not-for-profits, or other end-user organisations, including knowledge transfer, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
12. Maintain involvement in professional and community service, such as editing journals, participating in review panels, offering commentary in media, and undertaking consulting projects.
13. Provide service to the University by supporting the definition and achievement of strategic goals, maintaining productive relationships internally and externally, and engaging in activities beyond teaching and research.
14. Participate in duties associated with evolving research and professional environments, which may include undergraduate teaching, supervision of Honours and HDR students, and other tasks as required.
At Level D, duties also include:
8. Demonstrate national (and sometimes international) leadership in research, developing focused expertise, framing research questions, leading research projects, successfully applying for competitive grants, mentoring Early Career Researchers, and supervising Higher Degree by Research candidates.
9. Communicate research outcomes through publishing, exhibitions, performances, and presentations at national or international forums, and develop and exploit intellectual property.
10. Engage externally at regional, national, and international levels, building strategic partnerships and addressing real-world problems through scholarly application of discipline knowledge.
11. Contribute to defining and achieving the University’s strategic priorities through activities beyond research, fostering collegiality and maintaining a positive academic culture.
12. Undertake duties within the range of skills normally associated with evolving research, as required.
Selection Criteria
1. Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field (or equivalent applicable experience).
2. A strong track record of high-quality applied research in fibre recovery, utilisation, and mobilisation, with demonstrated impact on commercial and environmental outcomes and active engagement with industry networks and other stakeholders.
3. Evidence of research supervision and effective mentoring of Higher Degree by Research students.
4. Leadership qualities that foster a positive academic environment, high levels of engagement and standards, and a demonstrated commitment to ongoing academic development.
5. The ability to develop and sustain productive partnerships that generate benefits for the University, students, industry, and the broader community.
At Level D, selection criteria also includes:
8. Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field and equivalent applicable experience.
9. Demonstration of national (and sometimes international) standing in their discipline, with clear evidence of involvement in and impact on the development of their field.
10. Maintains a clear and coherent research program, with sustained, high-quality research outputs, external recognition, and demonstrable impact.
11. Provides research leadership through mentoring Early Career Researchers, strengthening research capacity and culture, and service on national panels.
12. Extensive experience and success in academic administrative functions within a University.
13. Ability to develop and maintain regional, national, and international partnerships.
14. Postgraduate qualifications in higher education and formal recognition for excellence in research (desirable)
Recruitment process
How to apply
Your application should include:
- Resume
- A cover letter not to exceed one page.
- A response to key selection criteria within the online application form
Closing date
Applications close: 11:55pm (AEST), Tuesday 6 January 2026
Contact
If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:
Professor Mark Brown
Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI UniSC Centre
Telephone: 07 5459 4483
Email: mbrown2@usc.edu.au
Please note that the University will be closed for the Christmas period from 25 December to 2 January. Any queries received during this time will be triaged, and responded to from Monday, 5 January 2026.
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
We are a university of change-makers, striving to create a better tomorrow. Sustainability has been, and always will be, our priority. It’s what we stand for, at the heart of what we do and how we do it. It’s also our guiding reason why.
Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024
Top 4% globally for 'Impact'
16th globally for 'Life Below Water'
1st in Queensland for 'Zero Hunger'
1st in Queensland for ‘Climate Action’
At UniSC, we believe that a better tomorrow is best achieved through collaborative partnership with our students, staff, community and industry.
Making impactful change through partnership
We can all benefit from the impact of this collaboration. This is why we strive to make industry engagement everybody’s business at UniSC. Together we can broaden industry experience opportunities, enhance graduate employment outcomes, and leverage business and industry development opportunities that contribute to a better tomorrow.
UniSC is a community which recognises and embraces diversity among our staff, students and community partnerships. We provide an inclusive environment where each person feels they belong and are respected, connected and empowered.
To achieve diversity and inclusion we have identified six focus areas. We acknowledge that as individuals, we all have multifaceted identities as encompassed in our understanding of diversity. Our focus areas are thus interconnected and come together in a unique way for each individual, embracing their experiences and personal perspectives.
Having a focused approach will allow us to accelerate a sense of belonging and greater inclusion for historically underrepresented individuals. Our focus areas include
- Learning and working at all life stages
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
- Cultural and linguistic diversity
- Disability and inclusion
- LGBTIQ+ and community
- Gender equity
We recognise that a positive workplace and team culture supports the work life integration of our staff. This drives positive engagement, innovation, high-performance, talent attraction and retention outcomes. Work-life integration encourages diversity and inclusion of staff, recognising needs at different stages of their careers, from family responsibilities to
cultural and community commitments.
Opening the door for women in leadership
UniSC is a proud recipient of the prestigious Athena SWAN Bronze Award, granted as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative which aims to address and improve gender equity in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) disciplines. Attaining an award is recognition of our ongoing commitment to improving gender equity and ensuring that women from diverse backgrounds, as well as underrepresented groups, are best positioned to reach their full potential.
Gender-diverse leadership at executive level is shown to increase an organisation’s problem-solving ability and its lateral and critical thinking skills. Gender diversity benefits all, as teams with gender diversity have been shown to enhance performance and create stronger job satisfaction and inclusive practice.
Work-life integration
UniSC is committed to creating a supportive working environment and have a range of guidelines, policies and procedures in place to ensure that staff of all genders feel supported in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Arrangements that may support a healthy work-life balance include flexible work hours, purchase of additional leave credits, working from home, and a variety of leave options including parental and carer’s leave.
We recognise that a positive workplace and team culture supports the work life integration of our staff. This drives positive engagement, innovation, high-performance, talent attraction and retention outcomes. Work-life integration encourages diversity and inclusion of staff, recognising needs at different stages of their careers, from family responsibilities to
cultural and community commitments.
LGBTIQ+ and community
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that facilitates equitable access and
full participation in employment and education and are focused on the inclusion of sexually and gender diverse identities.
As one of 65 Australian academic organisations – and the only university in Queensland – that demonstrated support for Australian Marriage Equality campaign in 2017, we remain committed to equality for sexually and gender diverse identities. The Ally Network is a UniSC support network for LGBTIQ+ students and staff to seek confidential support.
The Forest Research Institute at UniSC brings together researchers who are passionate about healthy forests, sustainable timber, and the communities that depend on them. The Institute includes four collaborative centres that explore everything from forest management and conservation to timber durability, innovation, and future-focused building solutions. Together, they work closely with industry, government and community partners to support resilient forest landscapes and a sustainable future for the sector.
The Forest Research Institute is comprised of four Centres, each with an individual identity and research focus. Centres work collaboratively for greater impact.
Forest Industries Research Centre
Tropical Forests and People Research Centre
National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life
AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures
Sustainable UniSC
Welcome to the University of the Sunshine Coast, UniSC for short. A young, fresh university driven by an unwavering belief that community and culture is just as important as a world-class education, delivered by world-class educators.
We may not be the biggest university, but we’re growing fast, and doing big things. Like ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, producing gold-winning athletes and award-winning alumni.
Our first campus, on the Sunshine Coast, opened its doors in 1996. Today, our award-winning facilities span five campuses across South East Queensland, an area of unique geographical importance. In fact, UniSC is the world’s only university with campuses on three connecting UNESCO biosphere reserves and the World Heritage Listed K’gari.
While we acknowledge and learn from the past, as a young university, we aren’t confined by the red tape found inside sandstone institutions. So you’re never going to be bombarded by stale traditions or hear phrases like “That’s the way we’ve always done it”.
Our job is to empower fresh thinkers and ambitious minds to create positive change and ways of thinking that moves everyone forward. And our students, staff and researchers work hard every day to do just that.
Together with our people, community and partners, we’re building a safe, sustainable, supportive, future-focused and fun learning environment, where lifelong friends are made, and opportunities are earned.
We invite you to learn, experience and gain the tools you need to not just create a better tomorrow for yourself, but for the communities and planet you live on.
We can’t wait to meet you.
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 aspiration over the next ten years is to adopt a challenger mindset and be globally recognised in the following domains: Student success by design; World-class research at scale; Sustainability leadership; and Expanding global footprint.
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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A great lifestyle in a stunning region
Located on the stunning Sunshine Coast in Queensland, our campuses are situated in one of the most beautiful regions of Australia. With pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a subtropical climate, the Sunshine Coast is the perfect place to live, work, and play.
Great people and a supportive culture
Our people are the heart of our university, and we're committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and support. We believe that our staff should feel valued, respected, and appreciated for their contributions, and we work hard to create a supportive and engaging workplace environment.
Ambitious growth and development
As a university, we're dedicated to achieving ambitious goals and making a real impact in our community and beyond. We're constantly looking for ways to innovate, grow, and evolve, and we encourage our staff to be a part of this exciting journey.
A purpose-driven institution
We believe in making a positive impact in our community and beyond, and our staff play an integral role in helping us achieve this goal. With a focus on mental health, sustainability, and environmental research, we're committed to making a difference in the world.
The opportunity to make a real impact
At the University of the Sunshine Coast, we believe in giving our staff the opportunity to make a real impact in their roles. Whether it's through cutting-edge research, innovative teaching methods, or community engagement, our staff are empowered to make a difference and create a meaningful legacy.
