Pathology Queensland are excited to welcome applications for a Principal Chief Scientist to join the Microbiology Central Team in Brisbane! Pathology Queensland (PQ) provides diagnostic pathology services to all Hospital and Health Services (HHS) across metro, regional and remote Queensland and plays a critical role in the government's response to public health threats, epidemics, and civil emergencies.

Job details Position status Permanent
Position type Full time
Occupational group Health - Pathology
Classification HP7
Workplace Location Brisbane Inner City
Job ad reference QLD/CSQ690790
Closing date 21-Sep-2026
Yearly salary
Fortnightly salary
Total remuneration
Salary Other
Job duration
Contact person Glen Lawrence
Contact details 0427 166 758
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The role

You will work in conjunction with the Statewide Discipline Director – Microbiology, to strategically and operationally manage the discipline of Microbiology at the Pathology Queensland Central laboratory and provide scientific leadership of the Microbiology discipline with Pathology Queensland state-wide. The position is responsible for the implementation of policy throughout the state as defined by the Pathology Queensland Executive and Microbiology Discipline Director, in consultation with the Discipline Working Party. The incumbent coordinates of all state-based discipline activities, providing an efficient channel for communication to the Discipline Director and the Discipline Working Party. In addition, the Principal Chief Scientist provides critical appraisal of existing agency and policy, utilising problem solving abilities

Your key responsibilities

- Apply high level scientific knowledge and leadership qualities to advocate for development of policies for the Pathology Queensland service at state-wide levels
- Provide strategic planning and management of Pathology Queensland – Central Microbiology laboratories, including forecasting of space, staff and equipment needs in the future as the service develops
- Evaluation of levels of service / activity, including cost and appropriateness to ensure that the service provided by the Pathology Queensland – Central Microbiology laboratories meets the needs of its clients and of Pathology Queensland
- Operationally manage the human, physical and financial resources of Pathology Queensland – Central, Microbiology laboratories,



including responsibility for facilitating staff development, performance appraisal and other general people management issues
- Collaborate with medical and scientific line managers and teams to ensure the role and operations of Pathology Queensland – Central, Microbiology laboratories are strategically integrated with those of CSQ to achieve its service delivery goals
- Ensure that Pathology Queensland – Central, Microbiology laboratories meet all relevant legislative, administration and professional standards to meet or exceed NATA/ISO/TGA accreditation/certification requirements
- Provide state-wide authoritative counsel in matters relating to Microbiology, to stakeholders both within and outside of the discipline and represent Microbiology on relevant and appropriate internal and external committees and forums in a manner that enhances the reputation of Pathology Queensland
- Utilise high-level negotiation and conflict management skills to advocate with stakeholders in securing resources or other outcomes for Pathology Queensland – Central, Microbiology laboratories

Role fit

You will bring extensive expertise in Microbiology, with demonstrated capability across the scientific, research, developmental and clinical interpretative aspects of the discipline. Working collaboratively with clinical and operational stakeholders, you will support the delivery of integrated pathology services that meet the needs of the health service and its patients. Your highly developed communication, consultation and negotiation skills will enable you to build strong relationships and provide a responsive, client-focused service. With proven leadership experience, you will effectively manage complex microbiology operations, ensuring compliance with legislative, administrative and professional standards while overseeing human, financial and physical resources in alignment with the strategic objectives of Pathology Queensland.

Why work for us

- Career training and development
- Competitive salaries
- Generous leave entitlements




- Employeewellbeing Programs

Ready to apply?

Please review the attached Role Description for application requirements.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote and .

Applications will remain current for a period of up to 12 months and may be considered for other vacancies which may include an alternative employment basis such as temporary, full time or part time.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

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📌 Principal Chief Scientist - Microbiology (Brisbane)
🏢 Queensland Government
📍 Brisbane