Postdoctoral Research Position (Social Science)
Centre for Climate Change, Woodland and Forest Health
Murdoch University (Perth, Western Australia)
A$60,417K – A$64,728
We seek a postdoctoral researcher with a social science background to work on the community education research program of this Western Australian government funded Centre.
Appropriate disciplinary backgrounds could include social psychology, environmental education, sociology, science communication, educational psychology or anthropology. Some background or interest in environmental restoration and/or public understanding of science would also be of benefit. The suitable candidate will have experience in research project management, and should have a demonstrated track record of publication in academic journals in their field of expertise, as well as excellent oral and written communication skills.
The successful candidate will be involved in tasks such as the analysis of literature from a range of disciplines that can be applied to the development of community-based behaviour change programs, engaging with community groups, landcare groups and regulatory bodies to assist in the management of woodland health. They will also assist with research design, quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, and the preparation of manuscripts for publication in high-quality academic journals.
This is a 3 year research-only position, subject to a 6 month probationary/trial period, with the possibility of up to 2 years extension.
Selection Criteria
Essential
1) Completion of a PhD in an appropriate discipline.
2) Demonstrated ability in research project management
3) Demonstrated track record of publication in academic journals
4) Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills
5) Willingness and ability to work as part of a large interdisciplinary team
6) Willingness and ability to engage with external stakeholders such as community groups, NGOs and government departments
7) A current driver’s license
Desirable
1) Demonstrated experience with working in interdisciplinary contexts
2) Experience with both quantitative and qualitative research design, methodology and analysis, including use of statistical software programs.
3) Postdoctoral research experience
4) A background in environmental restoration and/or public understanding of science
5) A record of successful applications for research funding.
The members of the Centre’s community education research project team are: Dr Catherine Baudains (School of Environmental Science), Dr Tim Kurz (School of Psychology), A/Prof Susan Moore (School of Environmental Science) and A/ Prof Renato Schibeci (School of Education).
Please direct questions about the position, in the first instance, to Dr Tim Kurz at