UNESCO Chair in Science Communication for the Public Good Research Fellow

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With the support of the ANU and approval from UNESCO, the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) has launched a major four-year program of work under the auspices of a UNESCO Chair on Science Communication for the Public Good. The Research Fellow will support the work of the Chair by undertaking collaborative research, stakeholder engagement and knowledge-exchange. Working closely with the Chair-holder (Prof Sujatha Raman) and other key members of the team, they will help develop internationally engaged work on how science communication research and practice can address global challenges and aspirations for transformative change embodied in the UN 2030 Agenda and beyond. The Research Fellow will have the opportunity to contribute to imaginative ways of connecting and communicating across often deep divides in knowledge and practice on: meanings and practices of innovation, ‘good science’, and public good; and the implications for how we respond to planetary crises.

The Research Fellow will join a lively team including one other postdoctoral researcher and three PhD students, as well as other CPAS colleagues doing aligned work. Existing postdoctoral research focusses on novel ways of linking forms of knowledge about equity and environment for transformative agendas.  The Research fellow will contribute to a parallel stream on knowledge about innovation for transformation, including, for example: the relationship between technological change, new heterodox economic and mission-based innovation policy models, and the implications for research and science communication. The specific focus will be determined by the Fellow’s prior expertise and interests, but is likely to engage with one or more of the following areas: bioeconomy, machine learning and AI, circular economy, synthetic biology, and/or broader sociotechnical innovations in key domains such as food and agriculture.

To excel in this role, you will have:

• A PhD in Science Communication, Science and Technology Studies or a related field, with a track record of independent research as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed journals and conferences, a record of developing and maintaining collaborations and by other measures such as awards, and invitations to present at conferences.
• Evidence of knowledge and interdisciplinary research experience in areas relevant to science, innovation and transformative change research, e.g.: responsible innovation; science and public policy; transdisciplinary science engagement; mission-based innovation. Experience working in collaboration with the biophysical sciences (e.g., in areas such as bioeconomy, synthetic biology, AI and/or broader sociotechnical innovations in key areas such as food and agriculture or circular economy would be an advantage.
• A demonstrated ability and commitment to undertake individual and collaborative research activities.

We are looking for a strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills and the capacity to quickly develop productive, professional relationships with colleagues and clients. Highly developed organisational skills and effective self-management are key.

For more information about the position please email Professor Sujatha Raman. 

To Apply

To be considered for this position, please upload the following documents:

• A current curriculum vitae (CV), and

• No more than a two-page summary addressing your suitability against the selection criteria.

The committee will consider candidates that do not meet one or more aspects of the selection criteria.

Closing Date: 12 November 2023