Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN)

- Adelaide, SA 5000
- Long Term Contract – up to 3 years from appointment
- Classification: SAES 1

About CALHN
At Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN), we’re shaping the future of health through excellence in clinical care, research and innovation. As the largest health network in South Australia, CALHN plays a leading role in improving the health and wellbeing of our community by delivering safe, connected and high-quality healthcare. With more than 17,000 dedicated employees, every day at CALHN presents an opportunity to make a real impact—not because it’s expected, but because our values guide us to be our best.

At CALHN, every voice matters. We prioritise the safety of our staff and patients, and staying connected across teams to deliver a seamless patient journey through our Safe and Connected Operating Model.

Find out more about CALHN sites and services, our stories and the opportunities to be part of CALHN.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Central Adelaide Local Health Network is seeking an exceptional research leader to shape and lead its research agenda. As South Australia’s largest health network, CALHN has a significant opportunity to leverage its clinical expertise, research capability and strategic partnerships to improve patient outcomes, advance clinical practice and influence the future of healthcare.

Working closely with the Executive Director, Mental Health Clinical Program and SA Prison Health Service, the Director, Research will drive a clear and sustainable research strategy aligned to CALHN’s organisational priorities. The role will build research capability and productivity, grow the research portfolio and funding base, foster innovation and commercialisation, strengthen strategic partnerships across universities, government, industry and research institutes, and ensure research translates into meaningful improvements in patient care, clinical practice and health system outcomes.

THE ROLE

The Director, Research will lead CALHN’s research portfolio and create the setting, partnerships and infrastructure required for high-quality, impactful and sustainable research. The role will oversee research strategy, governance, performance, systems, resources and support services, while building capability and enabling resefarch excellence across the organisation.

Key priorities will include:





- Leading CALHN’s research strategy, strengthening capability, capacity, excellence and impact in alignment with organisational priorities.
- Growing and strengthening the research portfolio, increasing research productivity, reputation, funding, strategic opportunities and long-term sustainability.
- Providing strong research governance and oversight, ensuring research integrity and compliance with legislative, regulatory, ethical and organisational requirements.
- Driving performance and continuous improvement, strengthening research systems, processes, accountability and support services to deliver high-quality outcomes.
- Building strategic partnerships with universities, government, research institutes, funding bodies and industry to expand collaboration, investment and CALHN’s research influence.
- Accelerating research innovation and translation, including commercialisation and the adoption of research into clinical practice, patient care and health system improvement.
- Optimising research investment and resources, effectively managing budgets, workforce, infrastructure and capability to maximise research impact and support sustainable growth.

THE CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished and values-driven research leader with a strong track record in developing and delivering research strategy within a complex health environment. You will bring demonstrated success in strengthening research capability, capacity, performance and impact, including growing research portfolios, funding and strategic opportunities.

As a strategic, analytical and influential leader, you will be skilled at navigating complexity, building trusted relationships and working effectively across health, government, academia and industry. You will have proven experience in research governance, integrity, ethics, risk and compliance, together with a strong track record in strategic change, innovation, research translation and continuous improvement.





The successful candidate will also bring extensive knowledge of contemporary clinical research, clinical trials, research management and translation, and the ability to lead high-performing teams and effectively manage research resources to deliver strategic priorities.

Why You’ll Love It Here - CALHN benefits that matter
We know that a great career is about more than just the work you do, it’s also about the support you receive. At CALHN, you’ll enjoy:

- Boost your take-home pay – salary packaging up to $9,010 for living expenses + $2,650 for meals and entertainment + pre-tax super and novated lease options
- Relocation Support: attractive relocation support for transitioning to CALHN, for eligible applicants
- Safe connections – be part of a culture of safety and connectivity, focusing on outcomes and continuous improvements
- Balance your life – flexible work options available
- Stay well – fitness discounts and flu vaccinations
- Feel supported – Employee Assistance Program for you and family

Diversity and Inclusion
We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, culturally diverse backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Application Information

- Please refer to the role description for essential educational/vocational qualifications that may be required 951147 RD SAES1 - Director Research.pdf
- Appointment will be subject to satisfactory Criminal History Clearances and compliant immunisation screening as indicated in the role description
- Immunisation Risk for this position is - Category B. SA Health Services are required to implement the Addressing vaccine preventable disease: Occupational assessment, screening and vaccination policy in the workplace

Curious about this role?
Connect with Simran Bachhal, Executive Officer
E: [email protected]

Apply Now
Applications close: 11:55 pm, Monday, 12 October 2026
Job Ref: 951147

Go to the SA Health Career Website for how to apply, and Australian and International applicant guidelines for more information

Please note that unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies or third parties will not be accepted for this position.

📌 Director, Research (Adelaide)
🏢 SA Health, Central Adelaide Local Health Network
📍 Adelaide