About the RoleThe School of Social and Political Sciences is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position within the Initiative for Peacebuilding, on a fixed-term basis until December 2026.As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will join a dynamic Faculty, School, and philanthropically supported Research Initiative dedicated to multidisciplinary research, engagement, and education aimed at advancing peacebuilding and conflict prevention in the Indo-Pacific region.You will have the opportunity to contribute to one of the Initiative's primary research streams: (1) enhancing the role of conflict prevention and peacebuilding in Australian foreign policy and (2) innovations in advancing knowledge and practice in peacebuilding.Your work will play a crucial role in shaping these areas and supporting the Initiative's broader goals from an Australian non-government perspective through a program of research, training, and engagement activities.Your responsibilities will include: Assist in the coordination, development, conduct and reporting of research;Conduct literature searches and reviews in support of the Initiative's projects;Work with the project team and non-academic partners to develop the Initiative's research projects;Assisting with preparation of interview schedules, data collection and analysis;Recruiting research respondents;Undertaking interviews with respondents (digital and face to face);Data entry and analysis;Contribute substantially to reports and other publications by submission and successful publication of articles in peer reviewed journals during the term of the appointment;Publish academic papers and other scholarly outputs to a high standard, and in accordance with the research expectations of a Level A academic at the Faculty of Arts;Support the efficient administration of the Initiative's project; Who We Are Looking ForThe successful applicant is expected to contribute to the Initiative's research and administration and actively promote the Initiative's research outcomes via different channels, including conferences and academic publications.The successful applicant should demonstrate capability to conduct fieldwork and data collection/analysis and be able to work collaboratively and collegially with fellow academics within the research team and with non-academic partners.You will also have: PhD in peace and conflict studies or a closely related discipline;Demonstrated strong research project coordination skills;Demonstrated ability to work as part of a research team and work with other members of staff to meet project aims and deadlinesDemonstrated ability to develop good relationships and work effectively with partners, organisations, industry and/or professional associations;Capacity for multidisciplinary research and/or the willingness to engage in cross-disciplinary environments Demonstrated ability to conduct fieldwork and qualitative research (, case studies);A track record in research, writing and publications in the appropriate area and the potential to develop further research expertise;Ability to present research findings to a wide range of audiences ().Desirable - Post-doctoral research that aligns with one of the main research streams that are being progressed by the Initiative: (1) to enhance the role of conflict prevention in Australian foreign policy and (2) innovations in Peacebuilding.For further information regarding responsibilities and requirements, please refer to the attached PD.This role requires that the successful candidate must undergo and maintain an up-to-date Working with Children Check.Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.This role requires current valid work rights for Australia.Your New Team - The School of Social and Political SciencesThe appointee will join the School of Social and Political Sciences, which is at the forefront of teaching and research in the social sciences in Australia and internationally.The School's aim is to redefine the world and change what matters, and our work is underpinned by the values of intellectual freedom, integrity, diversity, environmental sustainability and social justice.We value collegiality and active citizenship and are committed to contributing strongly to public and institutional life, and to providing an engaged and distinctive social science and arts education for our students.What We Offer You!In addition, we offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a range of benefits, including generous leave provisions, salary packaging, health and well-being services and discounts on graduate courses.For more information, check out our benefits page!About the University of MelbourneWe're tightly connected with the community, both at home and abroad.We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research.Discover more via our website and stay connected with our stories and people on LinkedIn.We are dedicated to ensuring barrier free and inclusive practices to recruit the most talented candidates.If you require reasonable adjustments, please contact the employee listed on the first page of the Position Description found below, with an email containing your name and contact details for a confidential discussion.Please ensure your email is titled "Reasonable Adjustments Request".Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ApplicantsWe aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians, with unprecedented investment to attract, nurture and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff.Tangible support through a range of programs and initiatives will ensure that you personally succeed and flourish while at the University of Melbourne.
