
The JCU Veterinary Science program is growing, join us on our journey as we continue to offer excellence in undergraduate, postgraduate and clinical training for the veterinarians of the future.
As a leader in animal science and veterinary practice, JCU Veterinary and Animal Science programs promote, foster, and administer quality teaching and research, as well as having a strong focus on delivering authentic clinical services.
At JCU's Veterinary Emergency Centre and Hospital, located at JCU Townsville, we offer a mix of clinical and academic work and you will have the opportunity to work with a wide range of state-of-the-art diagnostic, monitoring, and therapeutic equipment.
We look forward to hearing from you and wish you well on the journey you are about to begin.
Regards,
Professor John Cavalieri
Head of Veterinary Science
Shape the Future of Veterinary Science in the Tropics
World-Class Veterinary Science. Tropical Lifestyle. Endless Opportunity.
Join us as we shape one of Australia's most exciting Veterinary Science programs.
Join one of the world's most distinctive veterinary schools and help tackle the animal, agricultural and biosecurity challenges that matter most to Northern Australia and the tropics.
At James Cook University (JCU), our Veterinary Science program is recognised for its strong industry partnerships, hands-on clinical training, tropical focus and commitment to animal, human and environmental health. JCU is also actively contributing to animal health, zoonotic disease surveillance, biosecurity research and the development of the next generation of veterinary professionals.
We're embarking on an exciting period of growth and are seeking talented academics, clinicians and leaders to join our world-class Veterinary Science team.
This is more than a career opportunity—it's a chance to influence the future of veterinary education, drive impactful research, and prepare graduates to meet the evolving needs of animals, communities and industries across northern Australia and beyond.
As we continue to grow our program, we're seeking Expressions of Interest from passionate academics and clinicians who want to be part of something exceptional.

With more than 320 days of sunshine and the Great Barrier Reef, Australian Outback and ancient rainforests as backyards, Townsville is the ideal location for adventure and relaxation.
As the largest urban centre in North Queensland, Townsville is a major commercial and tourism hub, providing opportunities for both business and recreation. Townsville's economy is diverse, ranging from education to retail and manufacturing. Townsville is small enough for you to escape the hustle and bustle of capital cities, yet large enough to host major events, including sport, music, theatre and festivals.
Townsville enjoys a tropical climate with less rainfall than elsewhere in the Tropics due to the city's geographical location. Winter in Townsville brings blue skies, warm days and cool nights due to south easterly trade winds. Summer brings balmy temperatures and increased rainfall with thunderstorms usually starting in late October.
For more information, visit Living in Townsville.
At JCU we aim to meet tomorrow's demands in sustainable animal farming and increased expectations for animal health and welfare. We offer students world-class education through supportive learning environments with access to our leading lecturers and experts in companion animals and livestock. We are proud that our graduates receive extensive, hands-on experience to become well-rounded and highly skilled professionals.
The JCU Veterinary and Animal Science program is rated #1 in Australia for skills development, learner engagement and full-time employment and #1 in QLD for median salary, overall educational experience, student support and teaching quality*
We are looking for people with the dedication and passion to drive the agenda of future-proofing the vet science program at JCU. As enthusiastic and qualified vets, you will demonstrate enthusiasm and capacity for teaching vet sciences and your ability to engage effectively with multidisciplinary academics, community and professional bodies will see you excel in these interesting and rewarding roles educating the vets of the future.
Join a committed team of professionals dedicated to educating the vets of the future at one of the world’s leading educational institutions focusing on the Tropics.
*2024 Good Universities Guide, UG Veterinary Science
JCU is strongly committed to equity and diversity in the workplace and aspires to continue developing a workforce that reflects the diversity, capacities and capabilities of people from the regions in which we operate. We are committed to developing future leaders, building upon the wealth of wisdom and experience embodied by our current academic leaders, we will identify and nurture those who will take JCU into the future.
An appropriate and attractive salary will be offered including a range of flexible salary packaging options.
Generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions.
We’re looking for our employees of the future who subscribe to our values and beliefs and recognise that knowledge has the power to change lives. We ignite and support a passion for learning in our community and welcome dedicated professionals who can help us make a difference.
JCU is strongly committed to equity and diversity in the workplace and aspires to continue developing a workforce that reflects the diversity, capacities and capabilities of people from the regions in which we operate. We are committed to developing future leaders, building upon the wealth of wisdom and experience embodied by our current leaders, we will identify and nurture those who will take JCU into the future.
We are enriched by and celebrate our workplace diversity and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and abilities.
JCU has an Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Strategy.
Candidates are supported knowing JCU’s Vice Chancellor and senior management team are fully committed to the goals and strategies laid out in the Workforce Strategy to increase, retain and develop our Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
Increasing numbers of staff at JCU are undertaking cultural awareness training, so members of the selection panel should have an understanding of significant cultural differences.
For more current information on Indigenous-themed activities across the University click here
JCU has an extensive program in place to encourage diversity, examples of which include:
JCU has a comprehensive calendar of events that celebrate diversity. Joining the organisation in these activities, or participating as an invitee, is an effective way to participate in diversity focused activities. There are also many student organised events and staff are almost always welcome at these.
If you are interested in applying for a position at JCU and require assistance with making your application, please discuss your needs with the Chairperson for the position.
When offered an interview, please discuss with the person who contacts you any access assistance you may require, so this can be accommodated.
Refer to Working at JCU.
Should you have any additional questions not featured in our FAQs please contact the Chairperson in the first instance.
We wish you the very best of luck with your application and thank you for considering employment opportunities with JCU – A brighter future for life in the tropics.
The University is committed to enhancing staff and student access, participation and success in higher education and embracing the diversity of the communities we serve. We acknowledge our responsibility to support mental health and wellness as part of our core business.
The JCU Mental Health and Wellness Strategy (2022-2026) has been designed in collaboration with students, staff and stakeholders. It presents an integrated model which:
The Strategy is based on three intersecting initiatives:
PROMOTE:
Provide education and policy, early recognition and action, promote self-care, and support help-seeking behaviours and capacity building for positive mental health.
PROTECT:
Foster a supportive and inclusive culture and environment addressing bullying and risks of suicide/harm while increasing protective factors to combat stigma and support positive mental health.
RESPOND:
Provide access to health and wellness support and resources that are flexible and intentional, and offer timely and respectful crisis responses.

Mental health is about wellness, rather than illness. Having social connections, good personal relationships and being part of a community are vital to maintaining good mental health and wellness.
Good mental health is when:
- You can work and study to your full potential
- You actively connect and participate with family, friends and your community
- You undertake enjoyable activities
- You are coping with everyday stressors, and
- You are able to bounce back reasonably quickly from unexpected challenges and changes.
We understand that university life is both exciting and stressful, so JCU has a range of people and services to support you.
For further information, click here to visit our dedicated Mental Health and Wellness website:
Students and staff can develop professional skills during field trips to the most fascinating places on Earth. Students don't just leave with degrees, they finish with stories. JCU staff are committed to inspiring those stories through research and teaching excellence that brings together people and societies, the natural world, the built environment and experiential learning.