Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
Help shape the student experience through impactful strategy and policy work.
Full-time, Fixed-term position until 18/12/2026 with Base salary in the range of $106,709 - $116,198 + 17% super (HEW Level 7).
Based at our Vibrant St Lucia Campus
Join UQ’s Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) as a Principal Policy Officer and play a key role in shaping the future of education, student success, and academic excellence. Working at the centre of the University’s academic portfolio, you will provide high-level policy advice, lead dynamic research and analysis, and contribute to strategic initiatives that influence decision-making across the institution.
This is a dynamic and highly visible role where no two days are the same. You will work closely with senior leaders and stakeholders preparing impactful briefings and submissions, supporting governance and committee processes, and helping UQ respond to emerging sector reforms, regulatory changes, and strategic priorities.
Key Responsibilities will include:
Deliver insightful policy research and analysis in complex and evolving environments.
Prepare high-quality briefings, submissions, reports, and strategic advice for senior stakeholders.
Navigate governance, regulatory, and compliance frameworks with confidence.
Coordinate strategic projects and drive outcomes across competing priorities.
Build trusted relationships and influence decision-making across diverse stakeholder groups.
Relevant qualifications and experience in policy, governance, strategy, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience undertaking research, analysis, and preparing high-quality policy, governance, briefing, or strategic documentation.
Strong understanding of the Australian higher education sector and its regulatory environment.
Exceptional written communication skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information into clear, audience-appropriate advice.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to exercise sound judgement and evaluate complex information.
Proven ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
Highly developed stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with the ability to build effective networks and collaborate across diverse groups.
As part of the UQ community, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available.
Enjoy up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% super, 17.5% leave loading, flexible and hybrid working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on‑campus childcare, affordable parking, and salary packaging.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Matthew Campell on matthew.campbell@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.
Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia and criminal history checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.
You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.
We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.
Applications close Thursday 30 July 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-65398).
