Overview

Lead a nationally recognised health research institute. Drive major partnerships and secure transformational funding. Shape the future of health and wellbeing research at ACU.

Campus Location: Melbourne, Australia

Job No: APTAV #072

About the Opportunity

Reporting to the Executive Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, the Director will provide strategic and operational leadership of the Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research (MMIHR) and play a critical role in advancing ACU's research strategy and national and international reputation. The Director will develop and deliver the Institute's strategic agenda, foster a culture of research excellence, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, and build high‑value partnerships across government, industry, healthcare, community and university sectors.
Grow research impact and external funding.
Support development of future research leaders.
Drive innovation across the research‑teaching‑engagement nexus.
Ensure the ongoing financial sustainability and growth of the Institute.

About You
A PhD in a relevant health, medical, behavioural or related discipline.
A distinguished record of research leadership,



research excellence and competitive grant success.
Demonstrated experience leading large, complex research institutes, centres, faculties or equivalent organisations.
A proven ability to develop and sustain strategic partnerships across government, industry, healthcare, community and academic sectors.
Experience driving research growth, impact, commercialisation prospects and funding outcomes.
A solid track record of mentoring researchers, supervising higher degree research candidates and building research capability.
Exceptional stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills.
The ability to lead organisational change, inspire high‑performing teams and foster a collaborative research culture.
An understanding of the Australian higher education and research landscape, including emerging opportunities and challenges.
A commitment to research that delivers meaningful outcomes and contributes to the common good.

Perks

Competitive salary and benefits package in line with industry standards.
J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Director, The Mary Mackillop Institute For Health Research Melbourne
🏢 Australian Catholic University
📍 Melbourne