Research and Policy Officer

Posted 19 January 2022
Closing 02 February 2022
Job Type 12-month Fixed-term contract (with the possibility of extension)
Full Time / Part Time Part-time (3 days/22.5 hours per week)
Occasional requirement to work across multiple time zones and flexible work hours
Location Canberra  (location flexible)
Salary Classification

Level 5(1) $83,452 (including 17% superannuation)

About the Australian Academy of Science

The Australian Academy of Science was founded by Royal Charter in 1954 and annually admits Australia’s leading scientists to its Fellowship. The Academy is an independent non-profit organisation that recognises outstanding contributions to science and research, provides expert advice to government, contributes to the development of science policy, promotes science education and public understanding of science, and fosters international scientific relations. This position is part of a Secretariat who work as a team to support activities undertaken by the Academy.

Employee Benefits

  • Free parking in the city
  • Work in a beautiful heritage site and surrounds
  • Up to 17% superannuation
  • Annual leave loading for all staff
  • Options to salary sacrifice
  • Flexible working hours
  • Paid Christmas closedown
  • Generous employee assistance program

Position Purpose

Future Earth Australia is tasked with generating meaningful sustainable solutions to development and transformation issues by building collaborative research networks, linking researchers with policymakers, business and industry leaders, practitioners, and community stakeholders. In doing so, Future Earth Australia provides both national and international platforms for Australian scientists to engage with leaders in policy, business, industry, civil society, and community to co-produce knowledge and generate impactful actions.

A key deliverable for 2022 is the implementation of a satellite event to the 2022 Sustainability Research and Innovation congress and the socialisation and implementation of actions and recommendations stemming from our existing strategies.

This position is part-time 3 days/22.5 hours per week and is available on a 12-month fixed term contract with the possibility of extension. The role is based in Canberra, however applications to work remotely from home will be considered.

Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director of Future Earth Australia:

  • Assist with planning, organising and delivering major projects and activities to advance sustainability research and action in Australia and internationally

  • Take a leadership role working with the organising team to develop and implement a satellite event to the global Sustainability Research and Innovation congress

  • Delivery of key programs of Future Earth Australia under guidance of the Director

  • Assist in maintaining and extending productive relationships with stakeholders in government, industry, the community sector and industry

  • Program administration and oversight of operating procedures

Qualifications and Experience

  • University degree or relevant experience relating to sustainability and climate adaptation

  • Experience working across academic disciplines (natural and physical science, social sciences, humanities, etc.) as well as with non-academic forms of knowledge, including that of First Nations people.

  • Experience with Government processes and procedures

Selection Criteria

  • Demonstrated success in managing all aspects of coordination and logistics for large-scale hybrid (in person and virtual) events.

  • Experience and engagement with sustainability programs

  • Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to effectively work across global and cross-functional teams (which includes academia, researchers, policymakers, NGOs, funders, partners, etc.)

  • Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

  • A commitment to workplace diversity, workplace participation, WHS and equity principles

Contact details

Further information on the position is available from:

Name: Petra Lundgren
Email: petra.lundgren@science.org.au

How to apply

Applications must include:

  • Your Resume; and  
  • A cover letter summarising how you believe your skills and experience would be a good fit for the role (max 2 pages please)
  • Please submit your application via SEEK 
  • Applications close 5pm AEDT Wednesday 2nd February

To be eligible to apply for this role you must be legally permitted to work in Australia.

The Australian Academy of Science values social and cultural diversity and is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the provision of a safe and healthy work environment.  The Academy supports and promotes flexible work practices.

© 2025 Australian Academy of Science

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