Professor and Director of iLAuNCH Trailblazer Program

About the role

The University of Southern Queensland is seeking a senior academic leader to serve as Professor and Director of the iLAuNCH Trailblazer Program. This full‑time, continuing appointment will oversee the national space and advanced manufacturing initiative during a secondment to June 2028, after which the incumbent will remain in a professorial role.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the iLAuNCH Trailblazer Program, guiding research, commercialisation, workforce development and industry engagement.
• Develop and manage strategic partnerships with industry, government and partner universities.
• Secure funding and new opportunities to expand the program’s impact.
• Oversee a multidisciplinary team and ensure delivery of high‑value commercial outcomes.
• Contribute to UniSQ’s teaching, research and community engagement activities after the secondment.

Required profile

• Established record of leadership in research, innovation or industry‑led initiatives, preferably in space, aerospace or advanced manufacturing.
• Demonstrated ability to translate research and intellectual property into commercial products or services.
• Experience managing large, multidisciplinary teams and complex stakeholder networks.
• Strong academic credentials, with a PhD or equivalent and a history of high‑impact publications.

Required skills

• Not specified in the posting.

What we offer

• Annual remuneration of $250,000‑$270,000 AUD during the secondment, plus standard Professor (Level E) salary thereafter.
• Full‑time, permanent appointment with superannuation and leave loading.
• Opportunity to shape a nationally significant space and advanced manufacturing program.
• Campus location on the Toowoomba or Springfield campuses, with potential visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.