Pioneer research at the intersection of nature, wellbeing and sustainability — and help shape how we live in harmony with the world around us
Are you a researcher and educator passionate about understanding the profound connections between people and the natural world? Macquarie University's Australian Harmony Centre for Ecosystem Futures (Harmony Centre) is seeking a forward-thinking Research Fellow, with expertise in sustainability sciences and environmental psychology to join a vibrant, interdisciplinary community dedicated to reimagining our relationship with nature.
You will contribute to groundbreaking research, inspire the next generation of sustainability leaders through postgraduate teaching, and help attract funding that drives real-world impact.
If you thrive on collaboration, are energised by translating research into meaningful change, and want to work within a university that values bold, interdisciplinary thinking, we would love to hear from you.
About the Role
As a Research Fellow within the Harmony Centre, you will play a central role in advancing the Centre's research mission while contributing to high-quality postgraduate education. Your key responsibilities will include:
Leading and conducting research into nature connection and wellbeing, contributing to the Centre's growing body of evidence-based insights
Using the Macquarie University campus, and other partner sites as living labs to investigate sustainability challenges and solutions in real-world settings
Teaching into the postgraduate sustainability, environment and conservation coursework Master's degrees, bringing contemporary research directly into the learning experience
Collaborating across disciplinary boundaries with researchers in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences (particularly the School of Psychological Sciences), Macquarie Business School and the Faculty of Arts
Pursuing competitive grant and philanthropic funding opportunities aligned to the Harmony Centre's vision
Contributing to the Centre's strategic direction and its profile as a leader in sustainability and environmental psychology research
Co-Supervising and mentoring higher degree research students
About Us
The Harmony Centre at Macquarie University is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to exploring and strengthening the connections between people, nature and wellbeing. Anchored in rigorous research and a commitment to sustainability, the Centre leverages Macquarie's unique assets — including its biodiverse campus as a living laboratory for discovery and innovation. The Centre fosters collaboration across faculties and with external partners to generate insights that inform policy, practice and community action.
Macquarie University is a dynamic, research-intensive institution located on a spacious, parkland campus in North Ryde, Sydney. Ranked among the top two percent of universities globally, Macquarie is recognised for its commitment to interdisciplinary research, industry engagement and preparing graduates who make a difference. Our community is built on a culture of curiosity, collaboration and genuine care for one another and the world we share.
About You
You are an innovative and collaborative researcher with expertise in sustainability sciences and environmental psychological science. You bring a genuine passion for understanding how people relate to the natural world and a commitment to translating that understanding into positive outcomes for communities and ecosystems. You are equally at home leading a research program, inspiring students in the classroom, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and forging partnerships across disciplines and sectors.
Selection Criteria:
A PhD in environmental psychological science, sustainability science or a closely related discipline
A strong and growing research track record in nature connection, wellbeing and/or sustainability, evidenced by quality publications and research outputs (relative to opportunity)
Demonstrated experience or clear potential in securing competitive research grants or philanthropic funding
Experience in, or aptitude for, teaching in sustainability, environment or conservation programs in higher education
Proven ability to work collaboratively across disciplines, with a commitment to interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research
Experience or interest in utilising living lab or place-based research approaches
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders including academic colleagues, students, industry and community partners
How to Apply
To be considered, please apply online with your CV, and a cover letter outlining your understanding and interest in the role, the skills and experience you will bring, and how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above) [maximum 3 pages].
Applications Close: Tuesday 19th of May 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST).
Candidates must have Valid Australian Working rights.
This role requires police/criminal history checks.
We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Kate Williams – TA Consultant – k.williams@mq.edu.au.
Pre-Employment Checks
Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.
Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.
Applications Close:
19/05/2026 11:59 PM
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.