Excellence in Diversity Fellowship (Indigenous)

Location: Parkville
Role type: Full-Time Fixed-term for 2 years
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Salary: Level A $80,258 – $108,906 p.a OR Level B $114,645 – $136,136 p.a. plus 17% super (pro-rata for part time) commensurate with experience 

Only Indigenous Australians are eligible to apply as this position is exempt under the Special Measure Provision, Section 12 (1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2011 (Vic).

• These fellowships are designed to support and empower new ways of doing research and of recognising knowledge and knowledge holders.
• Opportunity to undertake a project in any form that aims to build an understanding and development of a particular topic, recognising the broad diversity of ways that knowledge is investigated and produced across cultures and traditions.
• Outputs can range from community-led gatherings, workshops, recordings, gallery displays, performance, constructions, the development of written resources or booklets, curriculum development, audio-visual material, academic publications, and other forms of work that communicate and share the work being done to community and/or relevant stakeholders

About the Role

To support the need for greater diversity and inclusion within the University of Melbourne, the Faculty of Science has recently developed targeted diversity strategies in the areas of Indigenous Engagement and Gender Equity. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for early career researchers and Indigenous knowledge holders to join the University of Melbourne and contribute to the development of innovative research that recognises all types of knowledge and ways of doing. As a Fellow, you will have the opportunity to propose and conduct research on a topic(s) of your choice, and work with a team of outstanding academics in a world-class research environment.

With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and community impact, this fellowship offers a great development opportunity, with a research grant of $15,000 per annum to support your research program. You will also have access to culturally appropriate support programs to aid the development of your independent research program and contribute to workplace culture.

Your responsibilities will include:

• In partnership with Senior Academic staff plan and carry out research in your nominated research project topic and work towards completion of the aims of the project
• Build a research program that involves collaboration with external organisations, in government, community groups, industry or academia
• Contribute to the preparation, or where appropriate individual preparation of research proposal submissions to internal or external funding bodies to support their program

In addition an applicant appointed at level B will be expected to:

• Contribute to and publish academic papers and other scholarly outputs to a high academic standard in accordance with the research expectations of the University of Melbourne

Who We Are Looking For

We are seeking candidates who demonstrate the potential to perform independent research and knowledge production. You should have excellent communication skills and a proven ability to translate your work to others. Experience in research collaborations with government, industry, or community groups is desirable, as well as experience working with graduate students, Honours or Masters students, and/or Elders and emerging knowledge holders within communities. If you are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to research that involves Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property, we highly encourage you to apply.

You will also have:

• Experience in an area of Indigenous knowledge that aligns broadly with western concepts of “Science” or completed a PhD in a traditional discipline of science with subsequent relevant experience
• Ability to work within and contribute to the performance and culture one or more of the seven schools in the Faculty of Science
• (ICIP), the applicant will have an understanding and/or experience in working respectfully with Indigenous communities, most especially in protecting and ensuring ICIP rights

In addition an applicant appointed at level B will be expected to:

• A demonstrated aptitude for independent research, with a strong publication record in relevant areas, commensurate with experience and opportunities
• Demonstrated ability to engage with relevant professional and industry bodies and stakeholders to foster collaborative partnerships

For further information regarding responsibilities and requirements, please refer to the attached PD.

Work Rights

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires current valid work rights for Australia.

Your New Team – “Faculty of Science“

Science at the University of Melbourne is the most highly ranked Faculty of Science in Australia. Science is defined by its research excellence in the physical and life sciences and is at the forefront of research addressing major societal issues from climate change to disease. Our discoveries help build an understanding of the world around us.

We have over 150 years of experience in pioneering scientific thinking and analysis, leading to outstanding teaching and learning and offer a curriculum based on highly relevant research, which empowers our STEM students and graduates to understand and address complexities that impact real world issues and the challenges of tomorrow.

What We Offer You!

In addition, we offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a range of benefits, including generous leave provisions, salary packaging, health and well-being services and discounts on graduate courses. For more information, check out our benefits page!

About the University of Melbourne

We’re tightly connected with the community, both at home and abroad. We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website and stay connected with our stories and people on LinkedIn.

Benefits for Indigenous staff  

• Cultural leave: Indigenous staff members are entitled to up to five days non-cumulative paid leave per calendar year for the purpose of attending NAIDOC, community, cultural and ceremonial activities. 
• University policies: Indigenous staff are supported by the University’s Reconciliation Action Plan and Indigenous Employment Framework, with the commitment to improving the employment, retention and career progression outcomes for Indigenous staff members 
• Indigenous Staff Network: Employees who have identified themselves as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander will have access to the Indigenous Staff Network (ISN)
• Cultural events: The University hosts annual cultural events such as the Wominjeka to begin the Academic Year and the Narrm Oration, and recognises significant times throughout the year such as, Reconciliation Week, Mabo Day and NAIDOC Week. 
• Employee Assistance Program: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support Line available free for you and your immediate family members.

 'Indigenous' here means a person of Aboriginal and / or Torres Strait Islander descent. 

Be Yourself

We value the unique backgrounds, experiences and contributions that each person brings to our community. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page.

We encourage and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

We are dedicated to ensuring barrier-free and inclusive practices to recruit the most talented candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments with the recruitment process, please contact us at hr-talent@unimelb.edu.au.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
We recognise that reconciliation is central to our purpose. For more information, please visit our Reconciliation page.

Join Us!

If you feel this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents: 

• Resume
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience

Please note that you are not required to respond to the selection criteria in the Position Description.

Applications close: 18 June 2023 11:55 PM Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)

Position Description:  0059387_Excellence in Diversity Fellowship (Indigenous)_PD .pdf