Company Description The Social Cyber Institute (SCI) is a research-focused think tank dedicated to advancing new ways of understanding the social organization of cyber security. https://www.socialcyber.ai/

SCI provides insights and guidance for business and government leaders who require a well-rounded perspective on digital risk, policy, and strategy. The institute’s work bridges social science, technology, and governance to inform practical decision-making in complex cyber environments. SCI values rigorous research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the translation of scholarly work into actionable recommendations for public and private sector stakeholders.The Social Cyber Institute is seeking a part-time Research Director to lead the development of its internationally recognised research program focused on AI, cybersecurity, advanced technology and public policy.

The Social Cyber Institute is seeking a part-time Research Director to lead the development of its internationally recognised research program focused on AI, cybersecurity, advanced technology and public policy. This is a voluntary role with the potential to raise research funding.

Our highlights in the past year include:

· An academic collaboration with UK and US organisations on AI impacts on cyber workforces in the AUKUS countries

· Publication in an IEEE journal of results of a government grant on technology impact assessment

· Submissions to parliamentary committees

· Delivery of executive workshops

· International webinars and conference invitations.

This is an opportunity for a mid-career professional with experience in technology policy, AI, security in cyber space, public policy, government, international relations, social science or a related discipline.





The Research Director

- Shapes the Institute’s research agenda and policy priorities.
- Consolidates our distinctive national and international profile in social cyber research.
- Develop relationships with government, industry, universities and international networks.
- Produce influential research reports, policy briefs, submissions, commentary and presentations.
- Contribute to public debate and policy development on emerging cyber-social issues.
- Lead or collaborate on research, funding and partnership initiatives.

The position is designed for someone who wants to make their own national and international profile while helping build an influential institute from the ground up. It offers substantial scope to define research themes, develop partnerships, publish under the Institute’s banner and become a visible contributor to key policy discussions.

The role is currently unpaid and part-time. Salary or other remuneration will be offered as fundraising and revenue generation become effective, subject to available funding and agreement on the role’s scope and time commitment.

About you

You will bring

- Relevant mid-career professional experience and strong policy capability.
- Excellent research, writing, analytical and communication skills.
- The ability to translate complex technical and social issues into practical policy insights.
- Initiative, intellectual independence and a collaborative approach.
- An interest in building a significant public profile in Australia and internationally.

To apply

Please submit a CV and brief statement outlining your relevant experience, policy interests and vision for the role to [email protected] by 21 November 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

📌 Director of Research (Canberra)
🏢 Social Cyber Institute
📍 Canberra