Director – Curtin Materials Institute (4‑year leadership)

About the role

The Curtin Materials Institute (CMI) is a newly‑established research hub that brings together world‑class expertise in sustainable materials across advanced manufacturing, green metals, energy systems, mineral processing and more. As the inaugural Director, you will lead the institute for a four‑year term, shaping its strategic vision, building high‑impact partnerships and driving research excellence.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement the Institute’s long‑term research agenda aligned with university, state and national priorities.
• Represent Curtin internationally and cultivate collaborations with industry, government and research organisations.
• Oversee shared facilities, postgraduate programmes and interdisciplinary research teams.
• Secure diverse research funding, identify commercialisation opportunities and raise the Institute’s global profile.
• Manage budgets, governance and ensure equity, diversity and inclusion across all activities.

Required profile

• Doctoral qualification in a materials‑related discipline.
• Internationally recognised academic leader with a strong record of interdisciplinary research.
• Demonstrated experience in securing major research grants and building industry partnerships.
• Proven ability to lead high‑performing, diverse research teams.

Required skills

• Strategic research planning and execution.
• Fundraising and grant management.
• Stakeholder engagement with industry, government and academic partners.
• Budget and governance oversight.

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration with 17% superannuation contributions.
• Full‑time, four‑year fixed‑term contract.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art analytical facilities at the John de Laeter Centre.
• On‑campus amenities including gym, medical centre and childcare.