Salary Package: Research Fellow (Level B / C) from $123,435 – $173,324 per annum, plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loadingAppointment type: Full-time, fixed-term position for 2 yearsMacquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
Macquarie University is hiring for a Research Fellow in Hearing Health Policy. We are seeking a dynamic and motivated researcher to join our growing multidisciplinary team at the forefront of public health research in hearing care. This role supports a high-impact research program focused on addressing the unmet needs of adults with hearing loss through data-driven policy, service innovation, and community-based interventions. You will work closely with leading researchers and partners to generate evidence that informs policy, practice, and real-world impact.
About the RoleDespite the high prevalence of adult-onset hearing loss, ear and hearing care remains poorly integrated into health systems in Australia and globally. Untreated hearing loss significantly affects communication, cognitive function, mental health, social participation, and quality of life. These impacts are particularly pronounced in older adults, those in rural and remote regions, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and other underserved communities. Current health systems are not adequately structured to address this challenge in a coordinated, equitable, and evidence-based way.
This position sits within the Public Health and Policy Pillar of Macquarie University Hearing, a strategic and growing research program led by Professor Bamini Gopinath, whose work applies a public health lens to addressing hearing loss in adults. This program aims to reshape how hearing care is viewed and delivered, shifting from a specialist-driven or clinic-based model to a more accessible, integrated, and preventative public health approach.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape future hearing health policy and promote equity, inclusion, and innovation in care delivery for adults with hearing loss, and will work with world-renowned researchers to:
Lead and contribute to health policy analysis and development related to hearing loss in adults in Australia and globally.Translate research findings into policy-relevant reports, submissions, and peer-reviewed publications.Support the design, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based guidelines and care pathways for hearing loss, contributing to national and global frameworks.Collaborate with government bodies, NGOs, industry and community stakeholders to advocate for improved public health messaging and systems-level responses to hearing loss.Participate in stakeholder workshops, project meetings, and policy forums to help embed research findings into practice and strengthen multisectoral partnerships.Develop grant proposals to internal and external grant funding bodies.Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students and mentor junior researchers.
About You (Selection Criteria) You will have a PhD in public health, health policy, or a related field, with a demonstrated track record of research focused on health systems, equity, and/or sensory impairment.Demonstrated experience conducting and leading health policy or public health research, ideally in areas related to health systems, ageing, sensory impairment, and/or non-communicable diseases.Strong knowledge of health policy development and implementation processes in Australia or comparable health systems.Experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data analysis, interpretation, and translation of findings into policy and practice.Track record of peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs, or government reports.Experience engaging with government, non-government, and/or community stakeholders, and contributing to research impact and/or advocacy efforts.Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences.
Desirable Experience Experience with program evaluation, implementation science, and/or guideline development and implementation.Familiarity with co-design or participatory research methodologies, particularly with older adults or underserved populations.Knowledge of current hearing health policy and services in Australia or globally.
How to ApplyTo be considered for this position applicants are asked to provide a cover letter addressing the selection criteria below and attach their curriculum vitae (including contact information for three referees) as part of the application process.
Applications Close:Applications will close on 9th March 2026. Kindly please note we reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
Why Join Us?Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability. Take a look at the fabulous staff benefits on offer when you work at Macquarie University:
Flexible, hybrid work arrangements17% SuperannuationSubsidised onsite parking optionsExtensive training and professional development programsOnsite childcare facilities to support working parentsOnsite vacation care during school holidaysDiscounted health insuranceSubsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic CentreAccess to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential supportConvenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics
Pre-Employment ChecksMacquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.
Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
Enquiries: Professor Bamini Gopinath, Macquarie University Hearing at
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University,, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday