We're Hiring!

• Full time | fixed term to 31 December 2026
• Based in Mount Isa
• Academic Level E - $204,612 + 17% super & excellent benefits 

• Lead meaningful change in rural and remote health across Queensland

• Work within a university recognised globally for impact in tropical, rural and Indigenous health

• Engage with highly committed teams across multiple regional locations

• Enjoy competitive benefits, relocation support and a values-driven culture

Lead academic excellence and workforce innovation in rural and remote health

James Cook University (JCU) is seeking an exceptional academic leader to join the School of Rural and Remote Health as Deputy Head. Based in Mount Isa, this senior role plays a pivotal part in delivering the Commonwealth’s Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training (RHMT) program and shaping the future of the rural and remote health workforce across Queensland.

About the Role

The Deputy Head provides high-level strategic and academic leadership across JCU’s University Departments of Rural Health (UDRHs). You will support the Head of School in driving excellence in teaching, research, community engagement and workforce development across multiple regional sites.

You will represent JCU and the UDRHs at senior institutional, government and national forums—contributing to policy, influencing funding strategies, and strengthening the University’s role as a national leader in rural and remote health.

A key focus of the role is responding to the health workforce needs of rural, remote and First Nations communities, ensuring culturally informed, place-based approaches underpin all UDRH activities.

What You’ll Do

• Lead strategic academic direction and performance across multi-site UDRH operations

• Advocate for improvements to rural and remote health training, research and workforce outcomes

• Influence national rural health policy and funding through high-level stakeholder engagement

• Strengthen partnerships with health services, government, industry, community organisations and research centres

• Drive best-practice teaching and research aligned to JCU’s strategic priorities

• Mentor, support and develop academic staff to achieve high performance and career progression

• Advance culturally informed initiatives supporting First Nations health workforce priorities

About You

You will be a dynamic academic leader with:

• A PhD (or progress toward completion) in a health-related discipline

• A strong record of academic leadership and multi-site program delivery in rural or remote health

• Proven excellence in research and teaching, with a strong publication and funding track record

• The ability to influence policy and funding through high-level government and sector engagement

• Outstanding relationship-building skills and experience working with rural and remote communities

• Demonstrated leadership in academic governance, mentoring, and resource planning

• A strong commitment to First Nations health priorities and culturally informed practice

Why JCU?

Join James Cook University's and be part of a team dedicated to making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of rural and remote communities. In addition to a competitive salary and excellent benefits package, you will have the opportunity to work in a supportive and collaborative environment while experiencing the unique lifestyle and natural beauty of Emerald and its surroundings. We offer

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 36.25-hour full-time working week
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Cash out annual leave and time in lieu options
• Up to 12 months paid parental leave
• A range of flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Staff study assistance and paid study leave
• Ongoing professional development support
• Fitness Passport
• Corporate discount on health insurance
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)
• Relocation and Accommodation maybe negotiated

HOW TO APPLY AND CONTACT DETAILS

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to advance your career and make a meaningful difference. Apply now and become part of our dynamic team at the forefront of rural and remote healthcare.

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role. 

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Professor Sarah Larkins via email deancmd@jcu.edu.au.

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply.  We value and celebrate the diversity of our community, and are committed to ensuring our community, and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.