- Fixed Term – 3 years
- Full time or Part time
- Campus Independent
- Can be Level A, B or C depending on qualifications and experience
Applications from Indigenous Australians only to be considered, this position is exempt under the Special Measure Provision, Section 12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2011 (Vic).
About the position
The Wurruwila Wutja Research Fellow is a research only academic who will be expected to undertake independent and/or team research and participate in activities within the relevant field to develop their research expertise. The Fellow will be located in a discipline relevant School/Research Centre/Research Institute and be closely linked with the Gabra Biik, Wurruwila Wutja Research Centre.
The La Trobe University Wurruwila Wutja Research Fellowship is a key initiative that has been developed under La Trobe University’s refreshed research strategy, Research & Innovation 2030. The aims of the Fellowship are to support and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers in higher education institutions and expand Indigenous researchers’ capacity to provide a positive impact for our communities.
Through connections, support and existing research programs in the home School and via the Gabra Biik, Wurruwila Wutja Research Centre, the Fellowship specifically supports the development and growth of outstanding Indigenous scholars in their research endeavours aligned with the broader Research & Innovation 2030 and Indigenous Strategies. Fellows will be part of a workplace that is actively committed to inclusion and enabling all our people to flourish.
The Fellowship is a multi-year appointment (up to 3 years) and open to Indigenous researchers with a PhD or equivalent research experience who demonstrate a strong research track record and commitment to Indigenous community. Fellows will have the flexibility to pursue research within their area of expertise which aligns to a program of ongoing research at La Trobe University. The candidate will have a primary affiliation with a School, Research Centres and/or Research Institute and will report to a senior researcher working within an established program of research at La Trobe University to promote research excellence. The Fellow will also be a member of Gabra Biik, Wurruwila Wutja Research Centre and have opportunity to engage with the broader support network this Centre offers members.
Each Fellow will be assigned a mentor from within the University who will support the Fellow with career development. Funding will be available to support the development of the Fellow with an expectation the Fellow will apply for and secure external funding throughout their Fellowship to build their career.
Eligibility
This is an Indigenous identified role and an affirmative measure therefore ONLY open to applicants of Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage in accordance with an exemption granted under section 12 of the Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
The applicant will hold a PhD or equivalent research experience.
Skills and Experience
To be considered for this position, you will have:
- Completion of a PhD or equivalent qualifications or demonstrated record of achievement/leadership in an area of Indigenous Knowledge.
- A record of publications, conference papers and/or reports, professional or technical contributions, or contribution to knowledge (relative to opportunity) which provide evidence of strong research potential.
- Potential to apply for and obtain external funding for research.
- Demonstrated potential to be future research leaders.
- Ability to work with community and develop leadership aligned to community priorities.
Please refer to the Position Description for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.
PD - Wurruwila Wutja Research Fellowship.pdf
Benefits
- 17% employer contributed superannuation
- Flexible work arrangements
- Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses
How to apply
Closing date: By 11:55pm on Thursday 26 March 2026
Position Enquiries: Nick Bisley, PVC (Research)
Email: N.Bisley@latrobe.edu.au
Recruitment Enquiries: recruitment@latrobe.edu.au
- Only candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia may apply for this position.
Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents:
- Cover letter,
- An up-to-date resume and;
- A separate document addressing each bullet point under the Essential Criteria ‘Skills and knowledge required for the position’, which is located in the position description.
Please scroll down to apply.
La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates.
All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
Why La Trobe:
- Develop your career at an innovative, global university where you’ll collaborate with community and industry to create impact.
- Enjoy working on our inspiring and stunning campuses – the perfect hub for industry, students and academics
- Help transform the lives of students, partners and communities now and in the future
La Trobe’s Cultural Qualities:
La Trobe University is committed to upholding the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV Code). This aligns with our mission to create safe and respectful communities. Candidates will be asked during the recruitment process to declare whether they have ever been investigated for, or found to have engaged in, gender-based violence in previous employment and/or in legal proceedings and provide relevant information to assist in determining suitability. Gender-based violence means any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats based on gender, that results in, or is likely to result in harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation liberty or autonomy.
