Democracy Now

Research in deliberative democracy UC Level B, Salary Range $116,403 pa - $137,865 pa + 17% Super Full Time, research-focused, 3-year fixed term till December 2029 | Based in Canberra, Australia

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• Research in deliberative democracy
• UC Level B, Salary Range $116,403 pa - $137,865 pa + 17% Super
• Full Time, research-focused, 3-year fixed term till December 2029 | Based in Canberra, Australia

About us:

University of Canberra's vision is that "Together we work to empower, connect and share knowledge with our people, cultures and places." UC is engrained in the local community and we aim to challenge the status quo through the pursuit of excellence in teaching, learning and research. The University of Canberra has been ranked in the top 7 universities in the world for reducing inequalities (THE Impact Rankings 2024).

About the role:

Join the world-leading Centre for Deliberative Democracy at the University of Canberra and develop your own independent research program in one of the most significant areas of contemporary democratic scholarship.

In this role, you will undertake high-quality research aligned with the Centre's research agenda while 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.

This is a unique opportunity for an emerging researcher to pursue original research in deliberative democracy, participatory democracy, democratic innovations, or a closely related field. Unlike project-based research appointments, this Fellowship allows you to build your own research profile, establish international collaborations, and contribute to advancing the field through high-impact scholarship.

Position Description - Deliberative Democracy Fellow.pdf

About you:

You are an ambitious and self-directed Early Career Researcher with a passion for advancing democracy research, holding a PhD in political science, sociology, media and communication, philosophy, or a closely related discipline.

Offerings/ Benefits/ Culture:

The University offers excellent conditions and benefits which can be explored on our "Work at UC" site which includes:

• 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)

University of Canberra is a values based organisation and sets a goal to be the national sector leader in equity, diversity, inclusion and access via Connected - A Decadal Strategy 2023-2032. UC encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Eligibility: 

Applications are invited from both domestic and international candidates. Applicants must be eligible to live and work in Australia for the duration of the appointment and must reside in Canberra throughout the fellowship.

Submit your Application through the "Apply Now" tab. As part of your application please submit:

• Your current CV
• A 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. There will be a list of pre-set questions that will need to be answered within a stipulated time.

For job specific information: Dr Hans Asenbaum, Director, Centre for Deliberative Democracy, 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