As Australia’s university sector delivers approximately $25 billion to the economy per annum, it is important to investigate the significant problem of digital communication and work stress in the sector. The project uses a multilevel approach to examine email load and its effects on work pressure, health, sleep and recovery using a national longitudinal design and innovative diary research. This project expects to advance our theoretical and practical understanding of the well-being of staff and the impact of technological and competitive pressures faced by universities. Expected outcomes include new management policies and addressing a gap in research by including casual employees, so that the findings benefit all occupational groups.