Professor in Exercise and Sport Science or Exercise Physiology

Salary: $222,734 plus 17% superannuation plus annual leave loading

Position: Full-time, Continuing

Location: Callaghan Campus, Newcastle, NSW Australia

About the role

The University of Newcastle invites applications for the role of Professor in Exercise and Sport Science (EXSS) or Exercise Physiology. This is a significant academic leadership position within the Discipline, with particular emphasis on advancing its research profile, while contributing to teaching excellence and community engagement. 

The Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science has recently transitioned to the University’s main Callaghan campus, benefitting from an impressive suite of new, state-of-the-art laboratories in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, and performance and data analysis. These facilities are co-located with The Forum, a premier complex that includes a high-performance gym, aquatic centre, and first-class sporting and recreation facilities. 

Through a landmark partnership with the Hunter Sports Centre, the Discipline also has access to brand-new teaching and engagement spaces, including a student-led Exercise Physiology Clinic and Athlete Testing Centre. Together, these facilities provide an unparalleled environment for world-class teaching, impactful research, and meaningful community engagement. 

As a discipline that is high profile and, rapidly growing in student numbers, Exercise and Sport Science is at an exciting phase of development. Its existing academic group is both highly collaborative and inter and multidisciplinary in approach. The Professor will be a visible leader, building the reputation and impact of the Discipline nationally and internationally, while providing leadership in research, supporting teaching innovation, and driving engagement with industry and community partners. 

There is significant momentum building in this discipline harnessing the Hunter’s excellence in professional and community sport with the academic and research environment of the University and its partners, including Hunter Medical Research Institute. You will be joining a community of professionals who are passionate about creating a better future for our regions and the world. You will be supported by a dynamic and inclusive workplace culture that encourages growth, innovation, and meaningful impact.

Key requirements

• A doctoral qualification in Exercise Physiology, Exercise and Sport Science, or a related field.
• An exceptional record of research achievement, including international recognition and external funding success.
• Demonstrated leadership in research development, supervision of higher degree research students, and mentoring of early and mid-career academics.
• Proven ability to establish and sustain strategic partnerships across industry, government, and community sectors.
• Strong contributions to innovative curriculum development and teaching aligned to external accreditation standards. 

You thrive in collaborative settings and are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning and research environment. You value diverse perspectives and actively contribute to a culture that supports mutual respect, innovation, and continuous improvement. You are eager to work alongside talented colleagues who are passionate about making a meaningful impact through education, research, and community engagement.

If you’re ready to join a university that’s committed to equity and excellence, and to contribute to a community that values your expertise and vision, we encourage you to apply.

Our university  

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader with a reputation for excellence in education and research. Ranking in the top 1% of global universities and among the top 40 for impact, our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and create a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

We are proud to be one of the first two Universities in Australia to achieve SAGE Athena Swan Silver Accreditation for gender equity, diversity, and inclusion (GEDI).  

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas and extend respect to Elders past and present. We are committed to strengthening Indigenous higher education and supporting Indigenous students and communities. 

For more information click here – The University of Newcastle 

What we offer

The university offers a comprehensive and inclusive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing, career development, and work-life balance for all staff, including:

• Flexible working arrangements in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy, supporting diverse family and personal commitments
• 17% superannuation, access to salary packaging options and annual leave loading
• Generous leave entitlements, including:
• Additional University holidays
• Life Leave to support personal and family needs
• Cultural Leave
• Parental leave and support for carers
• Wellbeing and support programs that promote mental, physical, and emotional health
• Career development opportunities, including:
• Structured training and leadership development
• Support for teaching excellence and research
• Opportunities for global collaboration and recognition
• Great Lifestyle – Enjoy the best of coastal living in Newcastle, with stunning natural beauty, a thriving cultural scene, and easy connectivity to Sydney and other major cities. Visit the City of Newcastle site to imagine your future in Newcastle.  

For further information on our benefits and perks, please visit our website.  

Making Contact or to Apply 

The University of Newcastle will be supported in its search for this appointment by the executive search firm The Insight Group. If you wish to discuss this role further in confidence and to submit your application please contact us by phone: (03) 9654 3288, or email: applications@insightgroup.com.au. 

Closing date: 12 October 2025

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you! 

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. 

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkingung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

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