Expression of Interest: Centre Leaders, Forest Research Institute
The University invites expressions of interest from suitably qualified staff within the Forest Research Institute for a Centre Leader position.
About the Role
The Centre Leader provides academic and strategic leadership for the Centre for (Forest Health Resilience / Innovative Sustainable Forestry) within the Forest Research Institute (FRI). Working closely with the Director, General Manager and fellow Centre Leaders, this role guides a collaborative research community that advances high-quality, impactful research while strengthening connections with industry, government and the broader community. You will support and mentor researchers, professional staff and students, particularly early- and mid-career researchers, while helping shape the Centre's research direction, partnerships and engagement activities. As a member of the FRI Leadership Group, the Centre Leader contributes to the Institute's strategic priorities and research excellence, while continuing in their substantive academic role.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide strategic research leadership for the Centre, aligning priorities with the Forest Research Institute and UniSC strategy.
* Foster a collaborative, high-performing research culture that supports quality, integrity and strong outcomes.
* Mentor and support early- and mid-career researchers, including guidance on publications, grants, partnerships and career development.
* Encourage collaborative research across FRI, UniSC and with industry, government and research partners.
* Support research income growth and grant development, helping identify opportunities and strengthen competitive submissions.
* Contribute to the leadership of the Forest Research Institute through the FRI Leadership Group and collaboration with the Director, General Manager and other Centre Leaders.
* Strengthen industry and government partnerships to support research translation and real-world impact, while ensuring alignment with University policies and governance.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria Essential
* Substantive appointment in the FRI.
Applicants must demonstrate
* Research Achievement and Emerging Leadership Potential: A strong and developing track record of research achievement relative to opportunity, evidenced by quality publications, contribution to grant applications and/or research income, HDR supervision (or co-supervision), and growing impact within their field.
* Capacity for Research Leadership: Demonstrated ability, or clear potential, to contribute to strategic research leadership within a centre environment, including supporting research performance, quality improvement and alignment with Institute and University priorities.
* Commitment to Mentorship and Research Development: Experience in, or clear commitment to, mentoring and supporting colleagues and HDR candidates, and fostering a collaborative and supportive research culture.
* Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Evidence of productive collaboration within interdisciplinary teams and/or engagement with industry, government or community stakeholders to enhance research quality and impact.
* Interpersonal and Collegial Leadership Capability: Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust, work collegially and contribute to an inclusive, respectful and culturally capable research environment.
Appointment Details
* Duration: Two (2) year appointment
* Eligibility: Open to current fixed-term or continuing academic staff members of the Forest Research Institute.
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How to Apply
Interested applicants are asked to submit:
* A brief expression of interest (1 pages) outlining your suitability and motivation for the position
* A current resume
Please submit your application online via the "apply now" button by 12pm Friday 27 March 2026
For any enquiries about the role, please contact Professor Mark Brown on
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