Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Sociology & Social Policy

• Full-time, Fixed-Term position until 31 December 2028..
• Liverpool City Campus with flexible working arrangements.
• Salary: Academic Level A $97,153 – $117,376 per annum, plus 17% Super and Leave Loading.

Develop and lead sociology and social policy research focused on equity, social justice and social change.

The Opportunity
We're seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow who will develop and deliver an independent program of sociology and social policy research that contributes to the School of Social Sciences (SoSS) research agenda, specifically within the sociology discipline. Your research will focus on equity issues, social justice and social change, and will contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals research achievements and Western’s 2030 Strategy priorities.

You will produce high-quality sociology publications and research impact activities, working independently and in collaboration with other researchers where relevant. You will prepare and submit competitive sociology-aligned research grant applications to external funding bodies, with an emphasis on Category 2, 3 and 4 research, and build productive relationships across industry, policy and funding partners.

You will contribute to the School’s research culture by organising, delivering and participating in workshops and seminars, engaging in peer-to-peer mentoring, and supporting strategic research collaborations. As required, you will participate in School and University meetings and undertake relevant professional development.

What Success Looks Like:

• Deliver an independent research program with high-quality sociology publications and impact.
• Submit competitive grant applications to external funding bodies (Categories 2–4).
• Support postgraduate development through supervision panels, mentoring and seminars.
• Strengthen SoSS research culture through workshops, collaborations and research promotion.

Please refer to the Position Description for full details.

About You

• You hold a PhD in Sociology or a related discipline.
• You have an emerging research profile in sociology and social policy, demonstrated through high-quality sociology publications and funded sociology project involvement, ideally aligned to Sexualities and Genders, Challenging Racism and/or Critical Pedagogies research.
• You can translate research beyond academia through public engagement, and you build trusted relationships with industry, policy partners and research funding bodies.
• You communicate clearly and persuasively in writing and in person, and you can tailor your message to academic and non-academic audiences.
• You work collaboratively and collegially, using strong interpersonal skills to influence, support others and establish effective working relationships.

Benefits
We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

• Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Application Details

• Position Enquiries: Direct to Professor Kate Huppatz, Director, Research via K.Huppatz@westernsydney.edu.au. Please include the job reference code REF1378D.
• Closing Date: 11:59pm, Sunday 5 July 2026.
• Working Rights: You must provide evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.
• How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered. As part of your online application, you will be asked to respond to screening questions addressing the key qualifications, experiences and skills required for this position.

Belonging at Western
We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact talentacquisitionteam@westernsydney.edu.au.

About Western
This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful.

Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.

For the latest please visit our website and LinkedIn.