UNIVERSITY OF THE SUNSHINE COAST - UNISC
Organisation / Company: UNIVERSITY OF THE SUNSHINE COAST – UNISC
Research Field: Agricultural sciences
Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2), First Stage Researcher (R1)
Country: Australia
Application Deadline: 6 Jan
Type of Contract: Permanent
Job Status: Full-time
Not funded by an EU programme – not a research infrastructure position
Offer Description
Industry Chair Opportunities – AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures
Australian Forest and Wood Innovations Centre for Sustainable Futures
Level D: $168,933–$186,045 p.a., Level E: $217,414 p.a., plus up to 17% employer superannuation
Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 5 years
Industry Chair Advanced Engineered and Composite Wood Products
Lead research that maximises timber resources, turning residues and underutilised fibre into high-quality, sustainable products for the built environment.
Explore ways to enhance engineered wood, support carbon-friendly building solutions, and integrate digital tools to improve efficiency and reuse.
Collaborate with industry and research partners to translate innovation into practical solutions that strengthen local capability and sustainable construction.
This role will link to Programs 1 and 3 of the AFWI Vision, supporting the growth of Australia's wood basket through improved utilisation of current resources and the development of innovative, carbon-friendly timber products.
Build national recognition through research that makes a meaningful contribution to your discipline across Australia;
Provide leadership and mentorship to researchers, supporting projects with national impact;
Collaborate with external partners to deliver outcomes that strengthen the University's reputation and benefit regional communities;
Play an active role in advancing your discipline and contributing to the broader academic community.
Industry Chair System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber Production
Drive innovation across forestry and timber production using system-based thinking and AI to optimise productivity, sustainability, and value.
Apply digital technologies to improve timber processing, resource recovery, and supply chain efficiency.
Support new plantations and integrated land-use systems while building strong partnerships with industry and First Nations communities.
This role will link to Programs 1, 2, and 3 of the AFWI Vision, supporting the growth and expansion of Australia's wood basket through improved resource utilisation, innovative land management and afforestation strategies, and the development of carbon-friendly timber products.
Build national recognition through research that makes a meaningful contribution to your discipline across Australia;
Provide leadership and mentorship to researchers, supporting projects with national impact;
Collaborate with external partners to deliver outcomes that strengthen the University's reputation and benefit regional communities;
Play an active role in advancing your discipline and contributing to the broader academic community.
About you
We seek accomplished academics with clarity, purpose, and influence in their research.
You will shape a thoughtful research agenda, lead significant projects, and communicate outcomes that strengthen your discipline and UniSC's profile.
You will mentor HDR candidates and early career researchers, and work confidently with industry, government, and community partners.
Qualifications
To be successful you will possess:
A doctoral qualification in a relevant field, with substantial experience as an academic leader of national or international standing;
A well-defined research program with measurable impact in your area of expertise;
Experience supervising HDR candidates and contributing to research reputation nationally and internationally;
Demonstrated ability to translate research into practical, industry-ready outcomes.
As a Level E, you will also possess:
International recognition as a leading authority in the field, with a strong record of academic leadership and formative disciplinary impact;
Significant leadership contributions that build research capacity and strengthen research culture at University, national and international levels.
Application Process
Applications for this position close midnight, Tuesday 6 January.
Submit a resume, cover letter, and a response to selection criteria. Note that within the application form you will be required to submit a statement addressing each of the selection criteria contained within the position description.
UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context. As a university attracting talent from across the globe, UniSC also offers sponsorship opportunities for international candidates.
Please note that the University will be closed for the Christmas period from 25 December to 2 January. Any queries received during this time will be triaged and responded to from Monday, 5 January.
Contact
For a confidential discussion, please contact:
Professor Mark Brown
Director, Forest Research Institute and AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures
Telephone: (placeholder)
Email: (placeholder)
Benefits
Modern teaching & research facilities
Professional development and career pathway opportunities
Flexible work arrangements & generous leave options
Salary packaging options + 17 % Super
EAP, fitness passport & discounted private health
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