Research Fellow, Creative and Cultural Research

Overview

This is a full-time, ongoing Academic Level B role based at Parramatta South campus, with flexible working arrangements. The position sits within the Division of Provost and carries a salary range of $123,327 to $145,625 per year, plus 17% superannuation and leave loading.

The role offers the chance to contribute to research that sits at the meeting point of creative practice, cultural studies and interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful candidate will support the Institute for Culture and Society by producing strong research outcomes, building partnerships, and helping translate research into public, community and policy impact.

What you will do

• Carry out independent and collaborative research in creative and cultural research.
• Develop practice-led, arts-based and interdisciplinary research that combines creative work, academic inquiry and social engagement.
• Produce high-quality research outputs in both conventional and non-conventional formats, such as journal publications, creative works and exhibitions.
• Contribute to external research income through grant writing and participation in competitive funding applications, especially in national and industry-funded programs.
• Work across disciplinary boundaries and partner with colleagues and external stakeholders to strengthen connections between Arts and STEM.
• Support major research initiatives linked to programs such as Automated Worlds, Borders and Migration, Environment and Technology, Queer Cultures, and Urban Futures.
• Take part in teaching and supervision for undergraduate, postgraduate, honours and higher degree research students.
• Engage with industry, cultural organisations and communities to create research impact, policy relevance and public engagement outcomes.

Success measures

• Consistent delivery of strong research outputs, including publications and creative artefacts.
• Meaningful contribution to grant activity and external funding applications.
• Effective collaboration across disciplines and with external partners.
• High-quality teaching and supervision that supports students through to completion.
• Clear evidence of research impact through engagement, partnerships and knowledge exchange.

About you

• You hold a PhD or Professional Doctorate in a relevant field such as media studies, cultural studies or creative arts.
• You have a strong record of interdisciplinary and practice-led research.
• You have experience preparing successful grant applications and attracting external funding.
• You are able to build productive collaborations across academia, industry and community settings.
• You have experience teaching and supervising higher degree research students.

Benefits

The university offers a range of benefits to support financial wellbeing, health and family life.

• Financial support including staff-only banking offers, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support such as a free Employee Assistance Program, annual flu vaccination, possible Fitness Passport access, and discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare options at Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta and Penrith campuses, with potential discounted fees and salary packaging subject to availability.

Application details

• For position enquiries, contact Juan Salazar, Interim Director, Institute for Culture and Society, and include reference code REF1588I.
• Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 2 August 2026.
• Visa sponsorship will be provided if required.
• Only applications submitted through the university's online recruitment system will be considered.
• Applicants will need to answer screening questions covering the qualifications, experience and skills needed for the role.

Belonging and equal opportunity

The university is committed to substantive equality and encourages applications from Indigenous Australians, people of all gender identities and expressions, people with disability, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. If you need reasonable adjustments during the application process, contact the talent acquisition team.

About the university

Western Sydney University is a community-focused institution established in 1989 through the объединation of several higher education institutions across the region. It serves one of Australia’s most diverse and fast-growing areas and is known for innovation, research excellence, equity and social justice. The university aims to create student success, impactful research and stronger communities, while helping shape the future of Greater Western Sydney and beyond.