Lead the Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC) National Dataspaces program.
•Centre for eResearch and Digital Innovation – Mt Helen Campus
•Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 12 months
•HEW 9 - $131,635 p.a. plus up to 17% superannuationPosition closing date: 15/02/2026
Ranked number one university in Australia for First Generation Student Enrolments (Good Universities Guide 2022) and with top rankings in Victoria around student support, social equity, skills and employment, we are driven to make difference to every student and the community providing lifelong learning, skills, and research locally, regionally, and globally.
With University and TAFE campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, Gippsland, and the Wimmera we are positioned to provide pathways from vocational education and skills training through to higher education.
About the role
As the Research Data Specialist, you will lead the Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC) National Dataspaces program, working closely with partners and researchers to interpret, leverage and progress the Dataspaces paradigm. You will develop policies, strategies and initiatives, to ensure the successful implementation of program goals within assigned budget and resource allocations.
You will:
* provide expert technical knowledge and expertise, support and liaison to the portfolio of projects in the Dataspaces program;
* identify and manage the Dataspaces program and related programs in the ARDC's Strategic Pillars and Business Units, including undertaking complex, significant and high level creative planning for cross-program activities;
* initiate, lead and maintain strong partnerships with key stakeholders; represent and promote ARDC's interests externally to industry, government, professional bodies and the wider international community;
* conceptualise, formulate and lead engagement opportunities, coordinating, managing and implementing activities with selected partners and stakeholders; and
* develop and implement innovative solutions to problems and provide specialist advice to key stakeholders to ensure a more effective and sustainable research data ecosystem.
About you
Working under the broad direction of the Director, you will possess a high level of planning and organisational skills, with experience in designing and delivering large programs with multiple stakeholders and projects. You will have excellent relationship management and consulting skills, including the ability to interact, influence and negotiate with a variety of stakeholders.
You will possess:
* specialist knowledge in an area relevant to national digital research infrastructure or a related discipline. Experience with data spaces and the International Data Spaces Association (IDSA) along with experience working in industry with commercial-in-confidence data is desirable.
* strong analytical skills and demonstrated ability to apply these;
* outstanding planning and organisational skills, with experience in establishing priorities, allocating and managing resources and meeting deadlines; and
* Proven capacity to conceptualise, develop and review major policies and to lead programs involving major change that impact multiple areas of an organisation.
All University positions must hold a valid Employer Working With Children Check (WWCC). Please refer to the position description for WWCC requirements.
How to apply
Please apply by Sunday, 15 February 2026
Applicants are required to submit a resume and a response to the key selection criteria.
View position description
Federation University is committed to The Circle Back Initiative program, whereby we will respond to every applicant.
If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application, please email the Recruitment team or phone Our position descriptions also list a contact person for job specific inquiries.
Let our staff tell you more.