Research Associate in Road Safety

University of the Sunshine Coast; Sunshine Coast Regional; On-site; AUD 83,148 - 112,588; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Flexible work arrangements

Discounted private health

Job summary

A leading Australian university is seeking a motivated Research Associate to support road safety research initiatives. The successful candidate will collaborate on projects, assist with data collection, analysis, and publication of findings. This role is ideal for someone with a doctoral qualification in Psychology or Criminology, strong research skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders. Join our diverse team and contribute to impactful research aimed at enhancing road safety in Queensland.

Qualifications

• Completion or near-completion of a doctoral qualification in Psychology or Criminology.
• Demonstrated research experience with knowledge of relevant methods.
• Potential for quality refereed publications.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to collaborative road safety research projects.
• Assist with fieldwork and stakeholder engagement.
• Support preparation of publications and presentations.

Skills

Research design

Data collection

Analysis methods

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Doctoral qualification in Psychology or Criminology

Job description

• School of Law and Society, UniSC Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs
• Level A, $83,148 - $112,588 p.a., plus up to 17% employer superannuation
• Full-time, fixed term appointment until April 2027

School of Law and Society (SLS)

Empowerment for Future-Ready Graduates

Our vibrant school combines practicality, inspiration, and rigor to shape future-ready, socially responsible graduates. With a focus on quality teaching and learning, we prioritise employability and flexibility, equipping students with the skills to navigate complex practical, ethical, and social challenges. Our inclusive environment fosters independent thinking and collaborative teamwork. Together, we'll work towards achieving your ambitions and making a positive impact on both local and global scales. Join us in contributing and innovating for a more just future through the fields of law and society.

The Opportunity

The School of Law and Society is seeking a motivated early career researcher to support the MAIC UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration. In this role, you will work closely with academic staff on established road safety projects while contributing to the development of new research initiatives. You will be involved across the full research lifecycle, including scoping, design, data collection, analysis and publication, helping deliver high-quality, evidence-based insights that inform policy and practice. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your research profile within a collaborative and applied research environment focused on real-world impact.

You will:

• contribute to collaborative road safety research projects, supporting study design, data collection, analysis and reporting;
• assist with fieldwork, surveys and stakeholder engagement, including liaison with government and industry partners under academic supervision;
• support the preparation of publications, presentations and research outputs for academic and non-academic audiences; and
• participate in research development activities, including contributing to grant applications and co-supervising Honours or HDR students where appropriate.

About you

You are an emerging researcher building your academic profile and keen to apply your skills to meaningful, applied research. You bring a solid understanding of research methodologies and enjoy working as part of a collaborative team. Organised and proactive, you are comfortable managing project tasks and contributing to multiple activities simultaneously. You communicate clearly with both technical and general audiences and are motivated to grow your expertise in road safety research within the Queensland context.

You Will Possess

• completion or near-completion of a doctoral qualification in Psychology or Criminology or associated post graduate qualification;
• demonstrated research experience, including knowledge of research design, data collection and analysis methods relevant to the field;
• evidence of, or potential for, quality refereed publications and contribution to research teams;
• strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with academic and external stakeholders; and
• a collegial, ethical and proactive approach that supports a positive and high performing research environment.

UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We 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. For additional support during the application process, please contact us at [e-mail] or call [phone].

Position Description: Research Associate in Road Safety

UniSC values a diverse and talented workforce and invites applications from candidates who already have legal work rights in Australia.

UniSC does not accept unsolicited applications. For agency inquiries, contact [e-mail]

Applications for this position close midnight, Monday 6 April 2026.

Your completed application must include:

• a resume and a statement of suitability (not to exceed two pages), which will be reviewed in alignment to the specified selection criteria as outlined within the position description. In particular, applicants should note the following key criteria in their statement of suitability:
• Completion or near-completion of a doctoral qualification in Psychology, Criminology, or an associated postgraduate qualification.
• Quality and trajectory of their track record relative to opportunity.

We would love the opportunity to get to know you better, but we know it works both ways. To get to know a little more about us, visit us at: Welcome to UniSC and LinkedIn Life

Contact

Professor Kerry Armstrong

Professor (Leader) - MAIC/USC Road Safety Research Collaboration - School of Law & Society

Telephone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Benefits

• Our collaborative, passionate and welcoming culture is what really sets us apart.
• Modern teaching & research facilities.
• Professional development and career pathway opportunities.
• We are a proud recipient of the prestigious Athena SWAN Bronze Award, granted as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative.
• Flexible work arrangements & generous leave options.
• Salary packing options + 17% Super.
• EAP, fitness passport & discounted private health.