Job Description

Host and Location

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Host: Ear Science Institute Australia (Ear Science), Perth, Western Australia
n Location: QEII, Ralph & Patricia Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute, 8 Verdun Street Nedlands WA

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About the Opportunity

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Western Australia's Future Health Research & Innovation (FHRI) Fund Distinguished Fellows 2025–26 program offers up to $5 million over 5 years (with 75% provided by the FHRI Fund) to attract outstanding research leaders to relocate to WA and lead globally recognised programs.

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The Role: Distinguished Fellow – Hearing Therapeutics (Drug & Gene Cures)

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The Distinguished Fellow – Hearing Therapeutics (Drug & Gene Cures) will lead a pioneering, WAbased program focused on advancing drug and gene treatments for hearing loss. This role is suited to outstanding interstate or international leaders (academic Level C/D/E or equivalent clinical standing) who will drive innovative research by harnessing Ear Science Institute Australia's organotypic models, the Aussie Ear Bank, and the clinic-to-lab translational pipeline.

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We are looking for an individual who ideally possesses the following qualities and experience

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- Internationally recognised leader in hearing therapeutics with laboratory expertise across molecular biology, gene therapy, cell/tissue engineering, and advanced delivery systems.
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- Track record of translational research, IP development, and clinical trial initiation in drug/gene modalities.
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- Demonstrated ability to build multidisciplinary teams, secure competitive funding, and mentor researchers and students.
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- Commitment to consumer and community involvement and equitable care for regional communities.
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About Ear Science Institute Australia

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Ear Science Institute Australia is a for-purpose medical research institute uniquely integrating science, clinical care, and community outreach to deliver treatments today and accelerate cures for tomorrow. Our facilities include 730+ m2 of laboratory and translational space at QEII (Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute) and a national network of Lions Hearing Clinics, enabling rapid translation from lab to clinic.

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We lead programs in Hearing Therapeutics, including human inner ear organoids, genetic therapies, targeted drug delivery, and biomaterials. Ear Science established The Aussie Ear Bank (Australasian Hearing Registry & Biobank) to underpin precision medicine and future gene therapy trials; we have also catalysed translational ventures such as Ear Science Therapeutics and ClearDrum.

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Recent reports highlight our grant successes, cooperative partnerships, and integrated model across Hearing Therapeutics, Devices & Implants, and outreach to regional communities.

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Enquiries

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Please contact Sandra Bellekom, Chief Executive Officer ([email protected]) or David Sly, Chief Operating Officer – Research ([email protected])

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How to Express Interest

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Please send (as a single PDF) to Jacci Williams, Chief People & Strategy Officer ([email protected]):

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- Cover letter outlining your vision for drug/gene cures for hearing loss in WA and alignment to FHRI objectives (max 2 pages).
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- Abridged CV (max 6 pages) with key publications (last 5 years) and summary of research relative to opportunity.
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- Program outline (2–3 pages) covering aims, methodology, anticipated WA health impact, team structure, and high-level budget.
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- Relocation plan & timeline (confirming ≥80% residency in WA) and consumer involvement approach.
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📌 Distinguished Fellow - Hearing Therapeutics (Drug & Gene Cures) (Perth)
🏢 Ear Science Institute Australia
📍 Perth