Cisco Research Chair in Defence Capability and Security

About the role

The inaugural Cisco Research Chair will lead an applied research programme at the intersection of digital technology, defence and sovereign capability, based in Tonsley, Adelaide.

Key responsibilities

• Establish and shape a high‑profile research programme covering AI, autonomous systems, advanced manufacturing and cyber security for defence and industry.
• Partner directly with Cisco, the Australian Defence Force, the Department of Defence and sovereign defence industry, leveraging Cisco’s networking, security, AI and IoT technologies.
• Grow a team of researchers and HDR candidates, attract major research and industry investment, and influence national conversations on defence capability.

Required profile

• Doctoral qualification in a relevant discipline or equivalent senior practitioner experience in defence or national security.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced manufacturing, AI, autonomous maritime systems or cyber security for defence.
• Strong record of research, industry or government‑funded programmes and competitive funding.
• Established networks across defence, government, industry and the technology ecosystem.

Required skills

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Autonomous systems (maritime)
• Advanced manufacturing
• Cyber security
• Networking and security technologies (Cisco platforms)
• Internet of Things (IoT)

What we offer

• Full‑time five‑year fixed‑term contract with AU$217,876 salary plus 17% superannuation.
• Flexible working arrangements and salary packaging options.
• Access to Cisco’s global research network and next‑generation technologies.
• Professional development, wellbeing programs and a vibrant campus environment.