Industry Chair of System-Based Thinking and AI Integration for Increased Timber Production

The 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. The 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.

This position offers the chance to lead innovation across the forestry and timber sector, using system-based thinking and AI to enhance productivity, sustainability, and value. You will optimise existing forests, support new plantations and integrated land-use systems, and apply digital technologies to improve timber processing and resource recovery. Your work will connect research with real-world outcomes, helping strengthen Australia’s timber supply, support sustainable construction, and foster meaningful partnerships with industry and First Nations communities.

You will:

• build 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; and
• play an active role in advancing your discipline and contributing to the broader academic community.

As a Level E, you will also

• be 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; and
• contribute at the highest level to University governance and capacity-building, fostering excellence across academic and professional programs.

About you:

Our ideal candidate is an accomplished academic who brings clarity, purpose and influence to their research. You shape a thoughtful research agenda, lead significant projects, and communicate outcomes in ways that strengthen both your discipline and the University’s profile. You provide considered guidance to Higher Degree by Research candidates and early career colleagues, helping to build a strong and capable research community. You work confidently with industry, government and community partners, creating collaborations that enhance the reach and relevance of your work. You also contribute to the broader priorities of the University, supporting an inclusive, positive and high-performing academic environment. At this level, your national standing is well established, and your leadership helps advance the University’s reputation and its contribution to the region.

To be successful you will possess:

• A doctoral qualification in a relevant field, with substantial experience as an academic leader of national or international standing.
• A coherent research program with sustained high-quality outputs and measurable impact in forestry systems, AI, digital innovation, or timber processing.
• Experience supervising Higher Degree by Research candidates and contributing to research recognition at national and international levels.
• Demonstrated experience developing and applying innovative, data-driven solutions that improve forest productivity, supply chains, timber processing, or engineered wood product adoption.
• The ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships with industry, government, First Nations communities, and research institutions to deliver sustainable forestry outcomes.
• Experience in academic administration, governance, and service that supports the growth and development of the School and University.

Visit the website for application details