Research Coordination Manager

Join a vibrant team in a new Traditional Owner-led initiative!

• Lead the development of a Reef-wide, Traditional Owner-led research agenda to shape the future of research on Sea Country in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area!
• Be part of a bold, values-driven team empowering Traditional Owners to shape the future of the Reef
• Remote working in Queensland (or hybrid in Brisbane)
• Start ASAP on a Two Year Fixed Term Contract
• Salary c$115,000 - $125,000 (+ super) negotiable, depending on experience
• Identified Role: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants only, with preference for Reef Traditional Owners

+ About Us:

The Great Barrier Reef Traditional Owner Taskforce (ReefTO) is a grassroots, Traditional Owner-led initiative that honours the decades of work by Elders to assert cultural authority and rights to sea country. We’re not just asking for a seat at the table - we’re building our own.

ReefTO is guided by the Reef 2050 Traditional Owner Implementation Plan, a living document created by mob, for mob. Our mission is to amplify Traditional Owner voices, elevate priorities, and drive genuine partnerships across the Reef.

ReefTO has three key objectives over the next 2-3 years:

1. Engage with Traditional Owners to establish a Sea Country Alliance.
2. Oversee strategic policy and capacity building actions in the TO Implementation Plan.
3. Monitor and report on the delivery of actions in the TO Implementation Plan.

We’re currently in build-mode - laying strong foundations, navigating ambiguity, and pushing for impact. We need passionate, skilled people who are up for the challenge!

ReefTO is hosted by Pollination Foundation until a Sea Country Alliance is set up.

+ The Opportunity:

This is a unique opportunity to lead the development and implementation of a Reef-wide, Traditional Owner-led research agenda that reflects the priorities and aspirations of Traditional Owner communities.

Reporting to the Director, Programs & Engagement, you’ll foster partnerships, engage with communities and stakeholders, create tools and protocols for ethical research governance, and support Traditional Owner control over research on Sea Country. You’ll play a key role in shaping how research is conducted, shared, and led across the Reef.

+ Roles and Responsibilities Include:

• Lead the design and delivery of a 5-year Reef Traditional Owner Research Agenda
• Convene a roundtable of research partners and map the current research landscape
• Engage with Traditional Owners to identify local and Reef-wide research priorities
• Develop and strengthen tools such as research protocols, benefit-sharing agreements, and ICIP guidelines
• Broker partnerships between research institutions and Sea Country groups
• Promote two-way knowledge exchange and co-authorship practices
• Support initiatives like a Reef Traditional Owner Research Scholarship or PrizeTrack progress and report on outcomes to stakeholders
• Collaborate with the Comms + Creative team to produce accessible, culturally appropriate materials
• Uphold ReefTO’s Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) protocols

For more detail, click here to access the Info Pack

+ Who We’re Looking For:

• 5–8 years’ experience in research coordination, Indigenous engagement, or program management
• Strong understanding of Indigenous research ethics and governance
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with Traditional Owner groups and research institutions
• Experience developing strategic frameworks, tools, and resources
• Deep understanding of Reef Traditional Owners’ aspirations and the research landscape
• Cultural competence and humility
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Strong project management and collaboration skills
• A positive, can-do attitude and commitment to ReefTO’s mission

+ Why Apply

You’ll join a passionate, purpose-driven team working to transform systems and empower Reef Traditional Owners. You’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of research on Sea Country, build strong partnerships, and contribute to a legacy of Indigenous-led knowledge and stewardship. Learn from a visionary group of Reef Traditional Owners, be part of a genuinely supportive and nimble close-knit team, work remotely, and grow professionally.

+ How to Apply

Click APPLY and submit a cover letter addressing your suitability for the role together with a current CV by 12pm (noon) on 29 August 2025.

Please contact Vicky Drake if you have any questions about the role.