At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a significant research program on First Nations perspectives and historical truth-telling.
- Company: Join the University of Western Australia, a top-ranked global institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 17% superannuation, and a vibrant academic environment.
- Other info: Engage in ethical research practices and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by collaborating with communities and shaping Australia's historical narrative.
- Qualifications: PhD in History or relevant experience, with strong research and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 £ per year.
Contribute to a nationally significant research program focused on truth telling and First Nations perspectives. Engage in collaborative, community-centred research with leading academic and industry partners. Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 4 years. Base salary range: Level B step 1, $118,150 plus 17% superannuation.
About the area
The School of Humanities at The University of Western Australia is a vibrant and intellectually diverse environment, supporting over 3,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students across disciplines such as History, English, Languages, Philosophy and Classics. The School is recognised for its strong research culture and commitment to fostering innovative and impactful scholarship. This role sits within the Truth Telling in the Goldfields research program, led by Professor Jane Lydon. The project brings together academic expertise and industry partners—including Goldfields Aboriginal Language Centre Aboriginal Corporation (GALCAC), the State Library of Western Australia, and the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage—to develop new, inclusive ways of understanding and sharing Australia’s past.
About the opportunity
Lead and contribute to a major research program producing a new history of the Western Australian Goldfields and its legacies. Work in close partnership with First Nations communities, including periods of research conducted on Country (including regional WA locations such as Kalgoorlie). Generate high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, reports, and a monograph that reflects methodological innovation in historical research. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and industry stakeholders to deliver oral history, exhibition, and public engagement outcomes.
About you
- A PhD in History or a relevant discipline, or equivalent research experience.
- Demonstrated research excellence, including peer-reviewed publications and growing recognition in your field.
- Experience in collaborative research and/or community engagement, ideally including work with First Nations communities.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to present research to academic, industry, and community audiences.
- Commitment to ethical research practices, including alignment with the AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research.
Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current “C” class driver’s licence will be required by the successful applicant.
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 Wednesday, 22 July 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.
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.
Research Fellow - History employer: Current staff
The University of Western Australia offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Fellow - History role, fostering a vibrant and intellectually diverse culture that prioritises innovative scholarship and community engagement. With a strong commitment to inclusion and diversity, employees benefit from collaborative research opportunities with First Nations communities and industry partners, alongside competitive remuneration and professional development pathways. Located in a prestigious institution ranked among the top 100 universities globally, UWA provides a unique platform for meaningful contributions to historical research and societal impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - History
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Current staff, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Current staff. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - History
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Current staff. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Current staff. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Current staff
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Current staff. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Current staff to drive research projects forward.
