Principal Research Fellow

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the palawa/pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

You will drive excellence in one or more research themes/platforms and flagships, while helping shape a collaborative, high-performing research culture.

• Deliver internationally recognised research at academic level C, D or E
• Build sustained partnerships across the health system, government and community
• Support the Tasmanian community to deliver a focused, impact-driven approach to health and medical research that is both place-based and globally relevant

Aligned to the strategic priorities of the Menzies, these mission-critical roles offer an opportunity to lead and grow impactful research programs. You will:

• Undertake high-quality, innovative research aligned to Menzies’ research priorities
• Secure and grow competitive research funding
• Publish in leading journals and contribute to the global evidence base
• Supervise and mentor research higher degree students and early-career researchers
• Build meaningful partnerships with industry, government, health services, and communities

We welcome applications from research leaders across laboratory-based, clinical and population health research, who have a strong record in, and continuing commitment to research that has achieved national and/or international recognition. These roles are suited to researchers who are motivated to deliver research that translates into policy, practice and real-world outcomes.

The University of Tasmania is a mission-driven institution dedicated to making a difference for Lutruwita/Tasmania and a distinctive contribution from Tasmania to the world. As the sole university on the island, the University is deeply embedded in the social, economic, and environmental fabric of Tasmania, working in close partnership with communities, industry, and government to address key challenges in education, health, productivity, and climate action. The University takes pride in its place-based identity, leveraging Tasmania’s unique geography, culture, and resources to offer world-leading research and education.

Menzies is one of Australia’s leading health and medical research institutes. We strive for a world where there is better treatment, prevention or a cure for the diseases that touch every Tasmanian – such as multiple sclerosis, heart disease, dementia, Parkinson’s disease and cancer.

We work collaboratively with the community and consumers, other researchers, health services, government, industry and funders to achieve our purpose to enable healthier, longer and better lives for Tasmanians through internationally significant research.

As outlined by the Director, Professor Tracey Dickson, Menzies is committed to:

• Tackling persistent health inequities and chronic disease burden
• Partnering deeply with communities and the health system
• Translating research into policy and practice
• Building inclusive, high-performing teams and future research leaders

This is a pivotal moment to join an institute where purpose, collaboration and impact are central.

Positions are available at an academic level C, D or E. These roles require recognised research excellence, a strong record of competitive funding, and a demonstrated capacity to provide intellectual, scientific and people leadership. Equally, we are looking for leaders who value partnership and who work effectively with industry, government, community and consumers, and who help shape a collaborative, values-driven research culture.

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant field. 
• A strong record in, and continuing commitment to, research that has achieved international recognition and made notable contributions to their field of research, demonstrated by a record of high-quality publications, industry and commercial impact, presentations at conferences and success in securing external competitive and other funding; or equivalent contributions and outputs. 
• A record of good contributions to successful research higher degree supervision and completions. 
• A strong and sustained track record of excellence engaging with community and consumers, industry partners and/or stakeholders to realise impactful research. 
• A track record in consumer and community involvement (CCI), including conducting high-quality research, fostering partnerships, mentoring researchers in best practices, and driving institutional change to enhance meaningful CCI involvement.
• A record of contributing effectively to building and maintaining effective and productive links locally and nationally with the discipline, profession, industry (where relevant) and wider community. 

This is a career-defining opportunity to contribute to research that delivers measurable impact for Tasmania and beyond. You will benefit from:

• 26 Weeks paid parental leave for primary care givers
• 17% Superannuation contribution
• Health and fitness membership options
• Accommodation and Car Hire discounts
• Health Insurance and Banking
• Novated Leasing
• Generous relocation support to Tasmania

We welcome applications from outstanding candidates who are motivated to make a difference. Please provide:

• An up-to-date CV
• A 1-2 page cover letter outlining your motivation for the role and alignment with Menzies
• A statement addressing the selection criteria by outlining how your skills and experience align with the role specific skills, knowledge and experience in the Position Description

 Level C Research Fellow Position Discription.pdf

 Level D Research Fellow Position Discription.pdf

 Level E Research Fellow Position Discription.pdf

• Applications close 11:55pm 21^st June 2026
• For further information about this position, please contact: TalentTeam@utas.edu.au.
• Additional information can be found in the following document:

 Director's Introduction.pdf

To be eligible for this position, you are required to have Australian citizenship, permanent residence or a current valid visa that allows you to fulfill the requirements of this role. Visa sponsorship may be considered for outstanding candidates.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police background checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

Advertised: 11 May 2026 Tasmania Standard Time
Applications close: 21 Jun 2026 Tasmania Standard Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend