- Flexible roster: one week on / one week off, including travel to remote communities.
- Candidates applying for this role must identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander under Section 50(d) of the WA Equal Opportunity Act, 1984.
- Part-time (0.5 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis until December 2029.
- Base salary range: $83,212 – $92,231 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.
About the area
The School of Earth and Oceans, in collaboration with the Rural Clinical School of Western Australia (RCSWA) at The University of Western Australia, delivers community-based research across the Goldfields region. Working closely with schools, healthcare professionals, and local stakeholders, the team supports the Heavy Metal Tooth Fairy program, a citizen science initiative that engages students and communities in environmental health research.
Based in Kalgoorlie, Aboriginal Research Assistants (ARA) play a vital role in connecting the project with local school communities and families.
About the opportunity
- Support the development and implementation of research activities and protocols in schools
- Deliver engaging school presentations as part of the citizen science program
- Facilitate the collection of tooth and dust samples in a culturally safe and ethical manner
- Provide practical research support to the project team, including data collection and coordination
- Ensure all activities are conducted with cultural sensitivity and in line with ethical research standards
About you
- Experience or background in education, health, performance, or community engagement
- Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills
- Confidence working and travelling in remote and regional areas
- Strong understanding of culturally safe and sensitive engagement practices
- Cultural competence and the ability to work respectfully with Aboriginal communities in the Goldfields region
- The ability to contribute to reports, research outputs, or project documentation
- Flexibility to adapt to school schedules and community engagement needs
- A proactive, respectful, and collaborative approach to working in a team environment
Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current Working with Children Check will be required by the successful applicant.
Confirmation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage will be required for the successful applicant prior to appointment.
Position description: 
PD - Aboriginal Research Assistant (522513).pdf
To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Dr Christine Jeffries-Stokes AM at 0407387602 or christine.jeffries-stokes@rcswa.edu.au
How to apply
Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.
Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 10 May 2026.
This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.
Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.
About the University
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.
Learn more about us.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.
If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.
If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.