Director, China Studies Centre

About the role

The University of Sydney is seeking a senior academic leader to direct its China Studies Centre. The Director will shape the university’s engagement with China, advance interdisciplinary research, and strengthen global collaborations.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and academic leadership across a distributed network of scholars and students interested in China.
• Collaborate with academic groups and the wider university community to build a cohesive research ecosystem.
• Foster national and international engagement with partners in academia, government, industry and cultural institutions in Australia, China and globally.
• Oversee centre operations, including financial management, staff supervision and development of new funding opportunities.
• Work with the Advancement team to develop a philanthropic fundraising strategy.
• Lead engagement with China by offering strategic advice and hosting university delegations.
• Champion innovative initiatives that challenge paradigms and leverage diverse resources.

Required profile

• Distinguished, internationally recognised scholarly record in China Studies or a closely related field, at Professor level.
• PhD in a relevant discipline or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Deep contemporary understanding of China’s economic, political, social and cultural dynamics.
• Proven success in securing competitive research funding and building sustainable research programmes.
• Demonstrated ability to provide strategic leadership in a complex, decentralised academic environment.
• Strong organisational and management capability.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration package.
• Superannuation contribution of 17%.