* Lead strategic research initiatives across the University
* Oversee specialist teams driving research excellence
* Shape national and international research partnerships
About us
Southern Cross University is a dynamic, ambitious institution focused on its purpose of changing lives through revolutionary learning and research with real impact. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience with demonstrated improvement in student success. In 2024, Southern Cross University placed 100th in the world in the Times Higher Education Young University Ranking.
Working at Southern Cross University combines a rare combination of being surrounded by ambitious students, dedicated colleagues and an environment of stunning natural beauty. We are leaders in our communities in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast and pride ourselves on helping shape a better tomorrow.
About the opportunity
Southern Cross University's Office of the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor leads the development and implementation of the University's research strategy, supporting excellence in research quality, ethics, innovation, and collaboration. The Director, Research, plays a key role in driving this agenda by providing strategic leadership and ensuring effective research governance and services. Reporting to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Director oversees four specialist teams - Grants and Contracts, Research Analytics and Systems, Ethics, and Researcher Development – to enhance research performance and the University's national and international reputation. Your core responsibilities will include:
* Strategic Leadership and Culture – Lead and support the Research Office team, fostering a high-performing, service-oriented culture, focused on staff development, and continuous improvement.
* Research Strategy and Performance – Drive the development and implementation of strategies to enhance research quality, innovation, and alignment with the University's strategic objectives.
* Digital Research Infrastructure – Oversee the strategic planning and improvement of digital research infrastructure to support advanced research across disciplines
* Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy – Build and maintain productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders to advocate for research excellence and support collaborative initiatives.
* Portfolio Governance and Operational Oversight – Provide strategic direction and effective management across all operational areas of the portfolio, including financial planning, HR oversight, risk and compliance, intellectual property management, and adherence to relevant legislative and University policies.
About you
You will be passionate about advancing research excellence and impact, with a strong commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative, and high-performing research environment. More specifically, you will have:
* A relevant tertiary qualification and substantial experience leading research initiatives and support services at a senior level within a complex academic or research environment.
* Demonstrated leadership capability, with a proven ability to articulate a clear vision, manage change, and deliver high-quality research operations and outcomes.
* Strong strategic and advisory skills, with experience providing expert guidance on research management, policy, and development to senior executives.
* Expertise in research commercialisation, including intellectual property protection and translating academic research into industry or societal impact.
* High level financial and operational acumen, with experience in research budget planning, resource allocation, and driving system and process improvements.
Salary and benefits
Our staff benefit from flexible work arrangements, including hybrid work models, generous parental and carer's leave provisions, wellbeing initiatives, employee assistance programs and professional learning opportunities. This position is:
* Full-time, continuing (permanent)
* Located at either Lismore, NSW 2480, or Gold Coast, QLD 4225. Generous relocation support available.
Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter responding to the selection criteria within the position description by the closing date. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. If you experience difficulties applying online or need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know by contacting jobs@scu.edu.au.
Job applicants must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, Australian permanent resident or currently hold a visa with ongoing work rights in Australia. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Further information
Additional information is available in the position description or by contacting:
Name:Professor Mary Spongberg
Email: mary.spongberg@scu.edu.au
Closing Date: 11.30pm AEST, 10 July 2025
Southern Cross University is committed to ensuring that the University reflects the rich diversity across the region in which the University's campuses are located.
The University encourages applications from people of all ages, women, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people, people living with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people who are LGBTQI+.
We encourage applications from people with disability and will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request.
* Start your application by clicking the "begin" button.
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