Associate Professor and Academic Head, Speech Pathology

James Cook University; Townsville City; On-site; AUD 159,835 - 175,633; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

17% superannuation contributions

Generous leave and flexible work options

Job summary

A leading Australian university is seeking an Associate Professor and Academic Head in Speech Pathology to lead innovative education and research. The successful candidate will have a PhD, a strong leadership profile, and a commitment to improving health outcomes in northern Australia. This role offers a full-time opportunity in a vibrant region, with competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Registered Speech Pathologist eligible for certification.
• Demonstrated academic leadership with curriculum design experience.
• Proven research profile with publications and grant success.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership in Speech Pathology.
• Drive innovative curriculum development and mentorship.
• Conduct impactful research contributing to regional health.

Skills

Innovation

Collaboration

Leadership

Curriculum design

Research supervision

Education

PhD in Speech Pathology or related discipline

Job description

Associate Professor and Academic Head, Speech Pathology

• Full time 36.25 hours | Continuing appointment
• Academic Level D - $159,835 - $175,633 + 17% super & great benefits
• Based in Townsville - enjoy a tropical lifestyle whilst achieving your career goals
• Lead with purpose - drive innovation in speech pathology education and research.
• Inspire change - mentor future clinicians and shape the next generation of allied health leaders.
• Create impact - strengthen partnerships and improve health outcomes across northern Australia.

The Opportunity

James Cook University (JCU) is seeking an exceptional leader in Speech Pathology to join the College of Healthcare Sciences as the Associate Professor and Academic Head. This role provides an exciting opportunity to shape the future of speech pathology education, research, and clinical practice across northern Australia and beyond.

As Academic Head, you will provide strategic leadership for the discipline, guiding innovative curriculum design, fostering excellence in learning and teaching, and strengthening research and professional engagement within the university and across the health sector.

What You’ll Do

Lead the discipline of Speech Pathology through strategic, academic, and operational leadership.

Drive innovative curriculum development and delivery using evidence-based, blended, and future-focused approaches.

Mentor academic staff and inspire the next generation of speech pathology educators and researchers.

Strengthen connections with professional, industry, and community partners to enhance learning and research outcomes.

Conduct and lead impactful research that contributes to the advancement of the field and JCU’s regional health mission.

Contribute to policy, governance, and academic excellence within the College of Healthcare Sciences.

About You

You are an accomplished academic and registered Speech Pathologist with a strong reputation for innovation, collaboration, and leadership. You’ll bring:

A PhD (or equivalent) in Speech Pathology or a related discipline.

Eligibility for certification as a Speech Pathologist with Speech Pathology Australia.

Demonstrated academic leadership, with experience in curriculum design, flexible delivery, and quality learning and teaching.

A strong research profile, with evidence of publication, grant success, and higher degree research supervision.

Proven ability to build relationships and lead effectively in cross-cultural and multidisciplinary settings.

Experience working in regional, rural, or remote health contexts or with Australia’s First Nations communities.

Recognition for excellence in teaching and/or research.

Why JCU?

At JCU, we are dedicated to improving health outcomes for northern Australia’s diverse communities. You’ll join a collegial, world-class university that values innovation, equity, and reconciliation, and provides opportunities for genuine leadership in health education and research.

Enjoy work-life balance with generous leave, flexible work options, and a tropical lifestyle.

Access professional growth through leadership programs, study assistance, and career development opportunities.

Benefit from competitive remuneration, including 17% employer superannuation contributions.

Be part of a supportive community that values diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation.

Make a real difference by contributing to world-class research and education that improves lives in regional and remote communities.

Experience the tropics – live and work in vibrant locations surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests, and rich cultural heritage.

Location

Based at Townsville, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a vibrant regional city with a relaxed tropical lifestyle, rich cultural diversity, and easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage rainforests.

How to Apply

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

• Complete the application form
• Upload your current resume
• Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role.

Further information is available by contacting Louise Brown on 4781 6229 or via email to [e-mail]

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community, and are committed to ensuring our community, and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.