Deliberative Democracy Fellow

About the role

The University of Canberra’s Centre for Deliberative Democracy seeks an ambitious and self-directed Early Career Researcher to join their team. This role offers an opportunity to develop your own independent research program in one of the most significant areas of contemporary democratic scholarship.

You will undertake high-quality research aligned with the Centre's research agenda, contributing to its national and international reputation of excellence. You will publish in leading journals and academic presses, develop competitive research funding applications, engage with scholars across Australia and internationally, and help shape the Centre's vibrant program of research seminars, workshops, conferences, and postgraduate learning.

Responsibilities

• Undertake high-quality research aligned with the Centre's research agenda
• Publish in leading journals and academic presses
• Develop competitive research funding applications
• Engage with scholars across Australia and internationally
• Help shape the Centre's vibrant program of research events

Requirements

• A PhD in political science, sociology, media and communication, philosophy, or a closely related discipline
• Passion for advancing democracy research
• Self-directed and ambitious

Qualifications

• PhD in political science, sociology, media and communication, philosophy, or a closely related discipline

Skills

• Strong research skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Benefits

• Flexible working arrangements
• Family-friendly policies
• On-campus gym, medical services, cafes, post office, supermarket, and early childhood education and care facilities
• Professional development offerings (study assistance, corporate programs, and discounts)
• Access to Employee Assistance Program and a corporate private health plan (Bupa)

Culture

The University of Canberra is a values-based organization committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and access. It encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Eligibility

• Must be eligible to live and work in Australia for the duration of the appointment
• Must reside in Canberra throughout the fellowship

How to Apply

Applications are invited from both domestic and international candidates. Please submit:

• Your current CV/cover letter outlining your motivation for applying, your suitability for the position, and how you would add value to the Centre's research profile
• A one-page research plan outlining your proposed research in the field of deliberative democracy, demonstrating how it builds on and extends your previous research
• Up to two writing samples of published work, or a PhD thesis chapter (if more than one, please merge into one document)

If you are initially shortlisted, you may be asked to complete an online one-way video interview. For job-specific information, please contact Dr Hans Asenbaum, Director, Centre for Deliberative Democracy, at hans.asenbaum@canberra.edu.au. For recruitment and application questions, please contact the Talent Solutions team on 02 6206 3867 or email uctalent@canberra.edu.au. If you would like to request a reasonable adjustment to the selection process, please feel free to contact us.

Closing date: 11.55pm, Monday 10 August 2026