Post Doctorate Research Associate - Political Science and Public Policy

• Join a team of early and mid-career researchers led by a senior researcher.
• Opportunities to contribute to national and global initiatives.
• Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis until 30 September 2028, with the possibility of extension.
• Base salary: Level A, $116,866 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

MandEval is a Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) funded project examining the introduction and impact of vaccine mandates globally. The project is in its final years. Based within Political Science and International Relations in UWA's School of Social Sciences, MandEval brings together researchers and decision-makers to generate evidence that informs future COVID-19 responses, pandemic preparedness, and routine adult and childhood immunisation policy.

The successful appointee will join VaxPolLab, an interdisciplinary research community spanning social sciences, law, allied health and related disciplines. VaxPolLab examines how vaccination policies are designed and implemented, how they operate in practice, and their impacts on communities and government. Researchers work closely with policy stakeholders to translate research findings into meaningful real-world outcomes.

About the opportunity

• Lead and contribute to outputs within the MandEval project, including qualitative data analysis and high-quality research publications.
• Collaborate with investigators, researchers and policy stakeholders across an interdisciplinary, multi-institutional network to deliver project milestones, support research translation activities and contribute to future funding opportunities.
• Supervise or co-supervise Honours and Masters research projects; contribute to the collegial and administrative activities of VaxPolLab and the School.

About you

• A PhD, or near completion of a PhD, in political science or public policy.
• A strong track record of research achievement relative to opportunity, demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications in high-quality academic journals.
• Experience conducting qualitative research, including research interviews, qualitative data analysis, and the use of relevant qualitative analysis software.
• Evidence of successful supervision or co-supervision of research students, relative to opportunity, and a commitment to supporting Honours and Masters researchers.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with experience in research translation, public engagement or engagement with government and industry, and a demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity.

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 - Post Doctoral Research Associate (524149).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact the Research Manager at mandeval@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Maddy Chaplin at maddy.chaplin@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 on Thursday, 24 September 2026.

This position is open to international applicants, noting relocation assistance is not provided for this position.

Benefits

• Flexible working options.
• Generous paid leave including parental leave.
• Up to 17% employer paid superannuation.
• Salary packaging available.
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
• Discounted health insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.

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.