• Conduct independent and collaborative research across all stages of the research lifecycle.
• A rich learning and research environment spanning the social and environmental sciences.
• Part-time (0.6 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 3 years.
• Base salary range: Level B, $122,876 – $145,404 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The School of Social Sciences offers a rich learning and research environment spanning the social and environmental sciences. In addition to delivering undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the School supports a vibrant and internationally recognised research culture.

The position undertakes research in rural geography, with a particular focus on understanding rural change in Australia. The position contributes to research projects examining rural identity, rural leadership, and processes of social, economic and demographic change in rural communities.

The position may contribute to teaching, outreach and community engagement activities consistent with the level of appointment.

About the opportunity

• Contribute to a program of research examining rural identity, rural leadership, population change, community resilience, and broader social, economic and demographic transformations affecting rural and regional communities.
• Design and implement qualitative and mixed-methods research projects, undertaking fieldwork in rural Australia, and statistical analysis of social, demographic and survey datasets.
• Arrange and conduct interviews and focus groups, and contribute to the collection, management and analysis of qualitative and quantitative research data.

About you

• PhD (or close to completion) or equivalent in rural human geography or similar field.
• A demonstrable track record in excellence in research evidenced by peer-reviewed journal articles published in high quality journals, relative to opportunity.  
• Evidence of successful supervision or co-supervision of research students, relative to opportunity.  
• Experience with conducting research interviews with key informants or publics and human research ethical review applications.
• Experience with qualitative data analysis using Nvivo software or equivalent and knowledge of contributions to the intersdisciplinary literature on social change in rural Australia.

Note: As part of the recruitment process, candidates will be required to complete declarations in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.

Position description:  PD - Research Fellow (524268).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Professor Amanda Davies at amanda.davies@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Pratik Sridhar at pratik.sridhar@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST Tuesday 15 September 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

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, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, 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. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.