The Role
An EL 2 Research Director will exercise a significant degree of independence and perform an important leadership role. You will be responsible for influencing and developing strategies, policies, priorities and operational practices in support of Defence objectives based on high level decision making and judgement. You will provide strategic advice to senior management and stakeholders as well as leading and assuming accountability for very complex work that has strategic, political or operational significance.
Key deliverables of the position include:
* Conduct research under the direction of the Commandant AWC contributing to conference papers, seminar presentations, and peer-reviewed publications for the Centre for Defence Research (CDR).
* Undertake literature reviews, data collection, and analysis to support the CDR projects in Military Studies, particularly focusing on professional military education, Indo-Pacific strategy, and defence policy.
* Assist in preparing high-quality research outputs, including journal articles and publications, policy briefs, and reports. Example coordination of the Australian Journal of Defence and Strategic Studies and other relevant publications.
* Translate research findings into accessible formats to support engagement with military and policy audiences.
* Coordinate administrative aspects of research projects, including managing timelines, organising project meetings, and ensuring compliance with AWC requirements.
* Coordination and oversight of the CDF Fellow and Secretary Scholarship.
* Support the planning, coordination, and delivery of seminars, workshops, and conferences associated with the CDR's research and outreach activities.
* Assist in maintaining professional relationships with stakeholders, including Defence, international institutions, and academic partners.
* Manage bibliographic databases and research materials, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
* Contribute to the preparation of reports for the CDR and AWC management committees.
* Develop research-related materials to support teaching or professional education programs under AWC.
* Attend meetings associated with the CDR and AWC activities and contribute to the broader strategic goals of the AWC.
* Contribute to the organisation and delivery of large-scale or international events hosted by the CDR and AWC.
* Contribute to course development and delivery within the College
About our Team
The Australian War College (AWC), as part of the Australian Defence College, is at the forefront of developing Australia's next generation of strategic leaders. AWC plays a pivotal role in preparing Australia's and Foreign Forces senior military officers and government officials for the strategic challenges of today and the future. As the nation's centre of excellence for advanced professional military education, the War College fosters critical thinking, strategic insight, and a whole of government approaches to defence and security.
As a member of staff within this high achieving team you will be contributing to an institution that not only builds individual capability but also strengthens Australia's' collective strategic advantage. You will join a dedicated team of professionals who are shaping the next generation of leaders and will contribute to an organisation that values intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and service to Australia's defence and security. As a member of the team you will be critical in ensuring our students are equipped to meet complex global challenges with professionalism, integrity and foresight.
Our Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will bring a depth of expertise and a passion for advancing Australia's strategic thinking. The successful applicant will hold a PhD in strategic studies, defence policy or a related discipline (or equivalent professional standing), with demonstrated expertise and a strong interest in strategy and national security. They will possess exceptional research capability, well-developed organisational and administrative skills, and the ability to collaborative effectively within multi-disciplinary teams.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills are essential, with a proven ability to present complex ideas clearly too diverse audiences. Experience in academic publishing, editorial work, or contributing to high-quality publications will be highly regarded. Familiarity with Defence, academic, or policy environments and the ability to build strong professional relationships with stakeholder across these sectors would be an advantage.
Application Closing Date: Thursday 25 September 2025
For further information please review the job information pack, reference DPG/07391/25 on