Senior Research Officer

Mater Research are looking for a Senior Research Officer to join the team! This is a two-year fixed-term role in a full-time capacity at 38 hours per week. It will be based at our South Brisbane campus.

This role is based on Turrbal and Jagera Country, intended for current or emerging Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander research leaders. Fellows are expected to build an individual research profile, establish national and international collaborations, and progressively transition towards research independence and future co-leadership opportunities. Career Track Fellows will be engaged in leadership meetings and activities involving the Group Leaders including the monthly discussion forums and professional training activities. Career Track Fellows will be engaged in some committee/administrative work to increase research leadership skills and service.

We encourage people to apply even if they are unsure if they meet all requirements. We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have diverse and unique skills and knowledge that we may need to consider on a case-by-case basis.

Mater Research is a recognised leader in medical research. Our bench to bedside philosophy sees us working across Mater Health’s hospitals and health services, The University of Queensland, and the world-class Translational Research Institute (TRI).

We are committed to working closely with Mater Health, Mater Education and our growing network of partners and collaborators to turn scientific discovery into the best possible treatment, care, and outcomes for patients and our broader community.

Salary: Commensurate with experience plus superannuation and access to not-for-profit salary packaging up to $15,900 +access to many staff benefits!

What you’ll be doing

• Lead and contribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research, with a particular focus on the First 2,000 Days for families.
• Build and maintain meaningful, culturally respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, consumers, clinicians, researchers and key stakeholders.
• Independently design, conduct and analyse mixed-methods research, with a strong focus on qualitative methodologies.
• Establish and contribute to collaborative research projects with internal and external partners.
• Lead and contribute to research publications, manuscripts, conference presentations and other research outputs.
• Contribute to and lead competitive grant and funding applications, including management and reporting of successful funding.
• Monitor emerging research and evidence to inform the development and design of research projects.
• Support ethics, governance and research compliance requirements.
• Mentor and supervise junior researchers and students, including primary supervision where appropriate.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences, workshops and forums.
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment while effectively managing priorities and working independently.
• Demonstrate Mater’s values and maintain high standards of research integrity, ethical conduct and workplace safety.

About you

Qualifications and Professional Experience

Essential

PhD submitted in in health sciences, Indigenous health, public health, maternal or perinatal health, or a relevant field including technical, scientific or clinical background in implementation science, epidemiology and/or perinatal health.

Desirable

• Previous experience in a clinical or research setting, translating research into clinical practice
• Experience or interest in qualitative research, co-design, and community engagement

Personal Qualities

Essential

• A strong commitment to culturally safe research and Indigenous health equity
• Proactive in identifying process and systems improvement and solving problems
• Ability both to show initiative and work independently, and work effectively as part of a team
• Highly organised with meticulous attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments and work under pressure
• Self-motivated to upskill in research techniques, learn new methodologies, and refine scientific writing and verbal presentation skills
• Adept at networking and forming new collaborations
• Demonstrated high level organisational skills including the ability to prioritise work demands meet deadlines and balance competing tasks
• Commitment to the Promotion of the Philosophy and Mission of the Mater Group and goals of the Mater Research Institute. To be thoughtful, considerate and act as a positive role model for others.

Why join us?

Mater is Queensland’s largest not-for-profit network of public and private hospitals and healthcare services, bringing together world-class expertise across healthcare, education, fundraising & philanthropy and research. With more than 14,000 employees, 13 facilities and almost 700,000 patients cared for each year, we're committed to empowering people to live better lives through improved health and wellbeing.

At Mater, our people are at the heart of everything we do. You'll join a values-driven organisation that combines compassionate care with innovation, education and research, creating meaningful career opportunities while making a genuine difference in the communities we serve.

What’s in it for you?

• Career growth opportunities across healthcare, corporate, research and leadership pathways
• Professional development and learning through Mater Education and internal development programs
• Generous salary packaging to help maximise your take-home pay
• Health and wellbeing support, including EAP, pastoral care and discounted private health insurance
• Fitness Passport access and a range of lifestyle, retail and travel discounts
• Discounted parking and reduced prices at Mater cafés and coffee outlets
• A supportive culture where your contributions are recognised and your development matters

Whether you're looking to grow your career, develop new skills or be part of something meaningful, Mater provides the opportunity to thrive while making a lasting impact.

Be part of something bigger. Make your move with Mater. #GetBetterWithMater

Applications close1st November 2026–please note, we may contact applicants prior to the closing date, please do not hesitate to APPLY NOW. Direct applications only — we are not engaging recruitment agencies at this time. All successful candidates may be required to complete pre-employment checks (including criminal history, working rights, medical and working with children checks).

Mater offers a safe, supportive, flexible and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. Visit ourReconciliation webpage.

Mater ensures all children have an environment suitable for their safety and wellbeing through proper supervision and safeguarding practices.

Mater considers that being Aboriginal or a Torres Strait Islander is a genuine occupational requirement for this position under s 25 of the Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld).