Industry Chair Opportunities AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures

Industry Chair Opportunities - AFWI Centre for Sustainable FuturesAustralian Forest and Wood Innovations Centre for Sustainable FuturesLevel D $168,933- $186,045 or Level E $217,414 p.a., plus up to 17% employer superannuationFull-time, fixed-term appointment for 5 yearsThe OpportunitiesThe AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures at the University of the Sunshine Coast is part of the national Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) network, supporting research and innovation in Australia’s forest and wood products sector. The Centre works alongside industry, government, and academic partners to advance sustainable forestry, maximise wood fibre use, and deliver climate-smart solutions. AFWICSF focuses on forest health and productivity, value-added products, supply chain efficiency, and integrated innovation, contributing to the national goal of growing a resilient, future-focused forest and wood products industry.For more information, please visit us online: AFWI Centre for Sustainable FuturesTo learn more about the role, please visit our candidate information page We Are Recruiting For Two Separate Industry Chair PositionsIndustry Chair Advanced Engineered and Composite Wood ProductsLead research that maximises timber resources, turning residues and underutilised fibre into high-quality, sustainable products for the built environment. Explore ways to enhance engineered wood, support carbon-friendly building solutions, and integrate digital tools to improve efficiency and reuse. Collaborate with industry and research partners to translate innovation into practical solutions that strengthen local capability and sustainable construction. This role will link to Programs 1 and 3 of the AFWI Vision, supporting the growth of Australia’s wood basket through improved utilisation of current resources and the development of innovative, carbon-friendly timber products.Position description: 493929_position description.pdfLearn more and apply here: https://careers.usc.edu.au/jobs/493929Industry Chair System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber ProductionDrive innovation across forestry and timber production using system-based thinking and AI to optimise productivity, sustainability, and value. Apply digital technologies to improve timber processing, resource recovery, and supply chain efficiency. Support new plantations and integrated land-use systems while building strong partnerships with industry and First Nations communities. This role will link to Programs 1, 2, and 3 of the AFWI Vision, supporting the growth and expansion of Australia’s wood basket through improved resource utilisation, innovative land management and afforestation strategies, and the development of carbon-friendly timber products.Position description: 493928_position description.pdfLearn more and apply here: https://careers.usc.edu.au/jobs/493928As An Industry Chair You Willbuild national recognition through research that makes a meaningful contribution to your discipline across Australia;provide leadership and mentorship to researchers, supporting projects with national impact;collaborate with external partners to deliver outcomes that strengthen the University’s reputation and benefit regional communities; andplay an active role in advancing your discipline and contributing to the broader academic community.As a Level E, You Will Alsobe recognised internationally as a leading expert, with research of global significance, including commercialisation, IP impact, and high citation influence;provide strategic leadership in teaching and scholarship, shaping policy, practice, and curriculum with international reach;lead high-impact engagement with industry, government, and communities, delivering outcomes that bring prestige and broader socio-economic, cultural, or environmental benefits; andcontribute at the highest level to University governance and capacity-building, fostering excellence across academic and professional programs.About YouWe seek accomplished academics with clarity, purpose, and influence in their research. You will shape a thoughtful research agenda, lead significant projects, and communicate outcomes that strengthen your discipline and UniSC’s profile. You will mentor HDR candidates and early career researchers, and work confidently with industry, government, and community partners.To Be Successful You Will PossessA doctoral qualification in a relevant field, with substantial experience as an academic leader of national or international standing.A well-defined research program with measurable impact in your area of expertise.Experience supervising HDR candidates and contributing to research reputation nationally and internationally.Demonstrated ability to translate research into practical, industry-ready outcomes.As a Level E, You Will Also PossessInternational recognition as a leading authority in the field, with a strong record of academic leadership and formative disciplinary impact.Significant leadership contributions that build research capacity and strengthen research culture at University, national and international levels.Application processApplications for this position close midnight, Tuesday 6 January 2026A complete application includes a resume, cover letter, and a response to selection criteria. Noting that within the application form, you will be required to submit a statement addressing each of the selection criteria contained within the position description.UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context.As a university attracting talent from across the globe, UniSC also offers sponsorship opportunities for international candidates. For additional support during the application process, please contact us at unisc-careers@usc.edu.au or call +61 7 5430 2830. Further information regarding how to prepare your application is available on our website: Join our teamHave questions or want to know more? For a Confidential Discussion, Please ContactProfessor Mark BrownDirector, Forest Research Institute and AFWI Centre for Sustainable FuturesTelephone: 07 5459 4483Email: mbrown2@usc.edu.auPlease note that the University will be closed for the Christmas period from 25 December to 2 January. Any queries received during this time will be triaged, and responded to from Monday, 5 January 2026. We would love the opportunity to get to know you better, but we know it works both ways. To get to know a little more about us, visit us at: Welcome to UniSC and LinkedIn LifeUniSC does not accept unsolicited applications. For agency inquiries, contact unisc-careers@usc.edu.auDiscover UniSCWe're all about doing work that matters, connecting with great people, and being part of an incredible journey. We’re not the biggest university. But we’re growing every day, and doing big things. Like ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, producing gold-winning athletes and award-winning alumni.We're one of the fastest growing universities in Australia, growing to over 2,000 people across 5 campuses in South East Queensland and a growing footprint in major capital cities.Our research tackles the most pressing challenges of our time, with 13 research fields ranked well above world standard, characterised by evidence of outstanding performance according to the Excellence Research for Australia Rankings. In 2024, we moved 97 places to be in the top 110 institutions in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings (2024).We recognise and value the contributions of each team member to our culture and success. We're not afraid to be different, and we're looking for people who share our values and want to be part of a team that is working together to improve local and global challenges.Our Culture & BenefitsOur collaborative, passionate and welcoming culture is what really sets us apart.Modern teaching & research facilities.Professional development and career pathway opportunities.We are a proud recipient of the prestigious Athena SWAN Bronze Award, granted as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative.Flexible work arrangements & generous leave options.Salary packing options + 17% Super.EAP, fitness passport & discounted private health.