Senior Research Fellow (Policy Impact)

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present. 

• Lead the development of high-impact applied policy research and delivery of complex projects that inform decision-making and drive meaningful social, economic and environmental outcomes
• Build and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders while contributing to the strategic growth, innovation and influence of the Tasmanian Policy Exchange
• Full time, Fixed-Term (1 year, parental leave) position located in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE) connects the University with government, industry and the community to provide independent evidence and policy insights that shape Tasmania’s future. Drawing on expertise from across the University, the Senior Research Fellow (Policy Impact) is an Academic Level C role responsible for leading high-impact applied policy research, developing influential policy advice and publications, managing complex projects, and building strong stakeholder partnerships. Working with a high degree of autonomy, the role contributes to the growth and strategic direction of the TPE and may also support impact leadership, stakeholder engagement, capability development, strategic planning and project oversight to ensure the TPE remains responsive to emerging opportunities while delivering excellence in research, policy innovation and community impact.

What you’ll do:

• Design, lead, and deliver innovative, evidence-based policy research and analysis addressing issues of strategic importance to Tasmania's future.
• Produce influential policy reports,submissions, briefs and other research outputs that inform policy development, public debate, and reform agendas.
• Establish and maintain trusted relationships with government, industry, community, and academic partners to support policy innovation, knowledge exchange, and collaborative research.
• Secure and manage externally funded projects and partnerships that enhance the University's policy impact and research profile.
• Provide academic and project leadership across multidisciplinary initiatives, fostering excellence, collaboration, and professional growth within project teams and the wider TPE.­

What we’re looking for:

• A PhD and/or significant professional experience in public policy, political economy, economics, regional development, political science, public administration, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong record of working with partners to deliver applied policy research and analysis addressing complex public policy challenges.
• Demonstrated success designing and leading complex research and policy projects from inception through to implementation and impact.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex research findings to non-expert audiences.
• Experience building effective relationships with government, industry, community, and academic stakeholders. 

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level C and will have a total remuneration package of up to $184,076 comprising base salary within the range of $138,536 to $157,330 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide the following supporting documentation:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the role
  • Your responses to the success criteria from the Position Description below
• For further information about this position, please contact Robert Hortle, Acting Director, Tasmanian Policy Exchange, robert.hortle@utas.edu.au or 6220 9456
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description - Senior Research Fellow (Policy Impact).pdf.

Applications close Thursday, 10 September 2026, 11.55pm 

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.