At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead projects to enhance HDR programs and improve the research student experience.
- Company: Join the University of Newcastle, a global leader in education and research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, extra leave days, health discounts, and wellbeing programs.
- Other info: Full-time, 18-month fixed-term role located at Callaghan Campus.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on research quality and student success in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in higher education governance and strong communication skills required.
As the HDR Program Enhancement Coordinator (Activations), you will lead a diverse portfolio of projects that support continuous improvement within HDR programs and the broader research student experience. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, you will deliver strategic initiatives from concept through to implementation and evaluation, applying expertise in project management, quality assurance and stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and best practice.
In this role you will:
- Lead HDR enhancement and activation projects that support quality, compliance and the research student experience.
- Manage project delivery, including planning, stakeholder engagement, implementation and evaluation.
- Coordinate key HDR initiatives and events, including conferences, festivals, assessment integrity projects and the implementation of HDR quality assurance frameworks.
- Provide expert advice and support to Schools, Colleges and Divisions on HDR quality assurance, compliance and program improvement.
- Use data, feedback and sector insights to drive continuous improvement and strengthen HDR programs.
- Build collaborative relationships across the University and externally to achieve project outcomes, benchmark practices and share best practice.
This 18-month Fixed-term position is full time and will be located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).
You will have:
- Demonstrated knowledge of higher education research governance frameworks and experience in implementing quality assurance processes to ensure compliance with national standards and best practice in PhD supervision and research environments.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills, including the ability to manage difficult conversations, as well as effectively engage with a culturally diverse range of internal and external stakeholders.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and organisational skills, including managing multiple priorities with exceptional attention to detail.
- Demonstrated capacity to work within a team and bring a strong, positive culture to achieve divisional and organisational goals in an environment of competing demands.
About our University
The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.
About the Unit
Graduate Research is responsible for building, shaping and implementing initiatives to develop the next generation of research leaders at the University of Newcastle; and for the timely and efficient management of Higher Degree Research (HDR) activities within the University, including the administration of HDR rules and policies; compliance with relevant university and external regulatory requirements; and maintaining the highest ethical standards in research higher degree training. The team is responsible for the above services for both domestic and international students.
What we offer
In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. These include:
- Remuneration of Higher Education Worker (HEW) Level 7 ($107,268 - $120,677) + 17% superannuation, commensurate with skills and experience.
- Additional University Holiday days, generous personal, life, and parental leave, annual leave loading, and additional purchased leave scheme.
- Discounts on private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more.
- A range of support and wellbeing programs.
Eligibility
Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.
Contact Us
For specific position enquiries, please contact Gareth Patterson, Manager Governance and Development via email ***************@newcastle.edu.au
Please note, we do not accept email applications.
Closing date: Monday, 26 October 2026 at 11.59pm AEDT
We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you. We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do. The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
HDR Program Enhancement Coordinator in Newcastle employer: The University of Newcastle
The University of Newcastle is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative research environment that fosters innovation and excellence in prostate cancer research. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, the university provides flexible working arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and comprehensive support programs, all while being situated in the beautiful coastal city of Newcastle, which boasts a rich cultural scene and easy access to major cities. This role not only allows for significant contributions to impactful research but also offers ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a globally recognised institution.
Contact Details:
The University of Newcastle Recruitment Team
