Associate Lecturer or Lecturer in Physiotherapy

About the Role

As an Associate Lecturer or Lecturer in Physiotherapy, you will contribute meaningfully in teaching and learning, research, and engagement in the School of Health Sciences, aligned with the University of Newcastle’s strategic priorities. Drawing on your clinical expertise and understanding of contemporary evidence-based physiotherapy practice, you will teach and coordinate undergraduate and postgraduate courses and supervise honours projects.

You will join a collegial, inclusive academic community committed to high-quality teaching and learning, impactful research, and meaningful engagement with our regions and beyond.

About you

You are an emerging or established academic physiotherapist with a clinical and/or research background, an interest in developing or a developed research profile, and a commitment to inclusive, high-quality teaching and learning student experiences. You thrive in collaborative environments and value working with colleagues who are passionate about advancing physiotherapy education, research, and practice.

Associate Lecturer (Level A)

You will have qualifications and clinical experience in Physiotherapy and be eligible for AHPRA registration as a physiotherapist. You are interested in building a research portfolio, contributing to publications, grant applications, and engaging in collaborative well-supported research teams. You will demonstrate effective, student-centred teaching and learning activities and contribute to course delivery, curriculum development, and academic service within the School.

Lecturer (Level B)

You will have completed a PhD (or equivalent) in Physiotherapy, with substantial contemporary clinical experience and eligibility for AHPRA registration. You have a track record of research that includes publications, competitive funding, and experience in research translation of your work for diverse audiences and impact (e.g., presentations, talks, resources, curriculum). You are ready to contribute to and lead teaching and curriculum design, supervise honours and higher degree research students, and actively engage in academic leadership and external partnerships.

For a full list of essential and desirable criteria, please refer to the Position Description. If you are motivated to contribute to an equitable, research-informed academic community and help shape the future of physiotherapy practice and research, we encourage you to apply.

About Us

The School of Health Sciences, one of four Schools within the College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, excels in the teaching of nine allied health disciplines: Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology, Podiatry, Diagnostic Radiography, Occupational Therapy, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiation Therapy, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Oral Health Therapy. The disciplines within the School advance the professional research profile of their respective areas and work together to prepare future healthcare professionals for their careers in multi-professional health, disability and aged care environments. The School has strong links with industry through sponsored undergraduate students, co-design and involvement in teaching, as well as several research collaborations.

The School enjoys a close collaboration with Local Health Districts and private practices in providing clinical learning experiences for students, teaching, research and engagement. 

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, the University’s commitment is to deliver an exceptional student experience and serve 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 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and communities. The University of Newcastle is a recognised leader in Indigenous health education and engagement, led by the Wollotuka Institute and Thurru Indigenous Health Unit.

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.

How to Apply

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can review the full Position Description and submit your application.  

Your application must include:

• Your ORCID ID.
• A URL link to your University Academic Profile (or equivalent).
• A Cover Letter and Statement (uploaded as a single PDF):
• Cover Letter (max. 1 page) outlining your interest in the role and providing details of 3 referees.
• Statement (max. 4 pages) addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria, as listed in the position description. 
• Your CV (max. 5 pages) tailored to your discipline

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. It’s important you read this information to ensure you are providing all the requirements of your application. 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Professor Suzanne Snodgrass, Head of Discipline, School of Health Sciences at suzanne.snodgrass@newcastle.edu.au or on 0249212089. 

Our assessment process

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• A short presentation to colleagues at the University on a given topic
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

Reasonable Adjustments 

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application, please let us know. This information will help us understand how best to support you and ensure an equitable and inclusive recruitment process. 

Please be assured that anything you share will be treated respectfully and appropriately. Our goal is to provide the best environment for every candidate to demonstrate their suitable skills and experience.

Please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au if you are experiencing any difficulties or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments.

Application close date: 2 June 2026 at 11.59pm AEST

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, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

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