Job no:
******
Work type:
Full time
Location:
Adelaide CBD
Categories:
Executive, Research
Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN)
Adelaide, SA ****
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 CHANCE
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 transparent 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 environment, 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 research 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
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 ****** 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: ******
Shape the future of research at CALHN.
Bring your expertise, build influential partnerships and turn research ambition into meaningful health impact!
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📌 Director, Research (Adelaide)
🏢 Health
📍 Adelaide