Associate Professor (Aboriginal Health and Culture)

• Lead transformative Aboriginal health research and education that improves outcomes for rural and remote communities.
• Shape national conversations on Indigenous Data Sovereignty, culturally-led research, and community-led health innovation.
• Identified position: This role is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only, in accordance with Section 50(d) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA).
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 2 years.
• Base salary range: Level D, $179,945 – $197,969 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The Western Australian Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) is a University of Western Australia initiative and part of the national University Departments of Rural Health network. With locations across the Midwest and Pilbara, and a major presence in Geraldton, WACRH is a leader in rural health education, research and community engagement.

WACRH partners with Aboriginal communities, health services and organisations to deliver impactful, culturally responsive programs that improve health outcomes and strengthen workforce pathways. Our work is underpinned by collaboration, respect, integrity, and a deep commitment to community-led approaches.

About the opportunity

• Lead large-scale, community-engaged research programs addressing Aboriginal health priorities in rural and remote settings
• Drive culturally-led research excellence, including governance, ethics, and Indigenous Data Sovereignty frameworks
• Translate research into real-world impact across policy, health services and community outcomes
• Build and sustain trusted partnerships with Aboriginal communities, Community Controlled Organisations and key stakeholders
• Influence university-wide strategy and contribute to national Aboriginal health and rural health agendas
• Mentor and develop Aboriginal researchers and professionals, strengthening workforce capability and leadership pipelines

About you

• PhD (or equivalent) with a strong track record of academic leadership and national standing in Aboriginal health research
• Demonstrated experience leading community-engaged research programs, particularly in rural and remote contexts
• Strong expertise in culturally safe research practices, including qualitative methodologies (e.g. Yarning Circles, interviews, community-based approaches)
• Proven ability to build and sustain partnerships with Aboriginal communities and organisations, grounded in trust and respect
• Experience influencing strategy, policy, and institutional direction, with a commitment to equity, inclusion and Indigenous leadership

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current National Police Clearance, Working with Children Check, and “C” class driver’s licence will be required by the successful applicant.

This position is only available for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people as permitted under Section 50(d) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. UWA believes that an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individual would bring essential insights and understanding to this role, enhancing the university’s ability to connect with and serve the community effectively.

This position is only available for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Island people as permitted under Section 50(d) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. UWA believes that an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individual would bring essential insights and understanding to this role, enhancing the university’s ability to connect with and serve the community effectively.

Position description:  Associate Professor (Aboriginal Health and Culture) - 523980.pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Sandra Thompson at sandra.thompson@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Talent Advisor 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 achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Monday, 17 August 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. Queries regarding  indigenous aspects of the role may be directed to indigenous.workforce@uwa.edu.au 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.