* Lead the research agenda for a university with globally recognised research strengths and a bold new Strategic Plan
* Shape a research culture and support environment that is ambitious, inclusive and built for the future
* Drive transformational change in how UNE enables its research community to thrive
The University of New England is setting out to do things differently. This role is no exception. Regionally rooted but globally networked, UNE is home to research that matters — knowledge that connects regional Australia to national and global opportunity, and that supports individuals and communities to thrive. With a new Strategic Plan setting an ambitious direction, this is an exciting moment to join us.
The Role
As Director of Research, you will shape and sustain the strategic and operational effectiveness of UNE's research support environment. Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research (DVC-R), you will provide authoritative counsel on research strategy, policy, governance and compliance, while leading a directorate that is collaborative, responsive and continuously improving.
This is a role that exists to remove barriers, build confidence and create the conditions in which UNE's researchers can do their best work — from early-career academics finding their feet, to established research leaders pursuing ambitious programs.
It is also a role for someone who can lead through change. UNE is in the midst of an operating model transition, and the Director of Research will be expected to actively contribute to new ways of working — embracing simplification, AI-enabled workflows and capability uplift as genuine priorities, not afterthoughts.
What You'll Lead
* Research strategy development and implementation in partnership with the DVC-R, including shaping institutional research priorities and managing the Research Performance Framework
* A capable, service-focused Research Services directorate
* The full research development lifecycle. From grant identification and application support through to reporting, acquittal and post-award management
* A research culture that is ambitious, inclusive and well-supported, including mentoring early-career researchers and building capability across the institution
* External partnerships with funding bodies, government agencies, industry and peer institutions, with particular focus on opportunities of regional significance
* Institutional leadership on research governance, integrity, ethics, compliance, export controls and foreign interference obligations
* Operational excellence. Reducing administrative burden and improving the researcher experience
* Thoughtful integration of AI and digital tools to improve research support outcomes
What You'll Bring
* Significant experience in research leadership, development and administration at a senior level, with a track record of building institutional research capacity and culture
* A doctoral qualification (preferred) or equivalent senior experience in research management and strategy
* Deep understanding of the Australian research funding landscape, regulatory environment and compliance obligations
* Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams, foster collaboration across academic and professional boundaries, and build productive external partnerships
* Strategic and entrepreneurial thinking in research support — identifying opportunities, managing risk and driving continuous improvement
* An appreciation for data-informed research management, including familiarity with research performance frameworks or researcher productivity systems
* Highly developed communication, relationship-building and influencing skills, with the ability to operate credibly across all levels of the institution and with external stakeholders
* A genuine capacity to contribute to organisational change, including the adoption of AI-enabled tools and evolving governance frameworks
Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
UNE is committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, mature age workers and LGBTQIA+ people.
Benefits and Conditions
* Fixed term five-year contract
* Attractive salary package including up to 17% superannuation (salary packaging options are available)
* Relocation assistance provided
* Travel will be required
* Applicants must have appropriate Australian work rights for the duration of this position (UNE will not provide sponsorship for this position)
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