The University of Tasmania acknowledges the palawa/pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present

- Lead research contract management across AFWI's national research portfolio.
- Partner with researchers, industry and government to support impactful research outcomes.
- AFWI is based in Launceston, Tasmania. However, adaptable working arrangements may be considered for suitable candidates.

About The Opportunity Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) is Australia's national research and innovation institute for the forest and wood products sector, bringing together industry, government and research partners to deliver collaborative, industry-focused research and innovation across Australia. AFWI is seeking an experienced and highly organised Research Contracts Manager to play a key role in managing its national portfolio of research contracts, funding agreements and project delivery arrangements.

Reporting to the Deputy Director, this position is responsible for providing high-quality research contract management services and advice, ensuring effective contract administration, compliance, governance and reporting across AFWI's research portfolio and three Research Centres.

This is a fixed-term opportunity until 30 June 2030.

What You’ll Do

- Manage the research contracting lifecycle, including the review, negotiation, execution, monitoring and variation of research agreements and associated contractual arrangements.
- Oversee contractual obligations, project milestones, compliance requirements and reporting to support the effective delivery of AFWI-funded research.




- Coordinate research funding and project approval processes, working closely with universities, research organisations, industry partners and other stakeholders.
- Support research governance, including providing secretariat services to AFWI's Research Advisory Committee and relevant governance committees.
- Maintain and improve contract management, monitoring and reporting systems to support effective program delivery.

What We’re Looking For You will bring strong organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills, sound judgement and the ability to manage complex contractual and administrative processes independently. Demonstrated experience in research contract management, particularly within a university, research institution or publicly funded research program, will be highly regarded.

Experience in research funding agreements, contract negotiation and administration, research governance, compliance and intellectual property arrangements would be particularly advantageous.

You will hold a relevant degree with subsequent professional experience in contract, research or project management, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education/training. A driver's licence is required.

What’s on Offer?

You’ll have access an array of staff benefits and discounts including:

- 26 Weeks paid parental leave for primary care givers
- 17% Superannuation contribution




- Health and fitness membership options
- Accommodation and Car Hire discounts
- Health Insurance and Banking
- Novated Leasing

Salary details Appointment to this role will be at HEO 8 and will have a total remuneration package of up to $152,033 comprising base salary within the range of $114,282 to $129,943 plus 17% superannuation. How to Apply?

- To apply online, please provide the following supporting documentation:
- Resume
- Cover letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the role
- Your responses to the success criteria from the Position Description below

- For further information about this position, please contact Dr Joseph Lawrence, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI), c/- Sharon Nolan, Senior Executive Officer, via [email protected]
- Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
- For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
- Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

Position Description - Research Contracts Manager.pdf Applications close Sunday, 15th November 2026, 11.55pm

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.

📌 AFWI Research Contracts Manager (Hobart)
🏢 University of Tasmania
📍 Hobart