University Veterinarian

About the role

Adelaide University is looking for a University Veterinarian based in the Research and Innovation Portfolio in the Adelaide CBD. The role reports to the Executive Director, Research Infrastructure and leads animal welfare, ethics and compliance across research and teaching. It is a full-time 6-month fixed-term contract (part-time negotiable) with a salary of $135,226 to $144,672 per year plus 17% superannuation.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the health, welfare and ethical use of animals in research and teaching through policy, procedures and training, while complying with legislation and the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes.
• Review animal ethics applications, give expert advice and support governance and compliance activities; the role is predominantly non-clinical with some hands-on veterinary input where needed.
• Provide specialist veterinary services, advise researchers and senior stakeholders, and lead training on best practice in animal care and use.
• Promote the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement) and foster ethical practice, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Work with Animal Ethics Committees, Biological Services managers, Animal Technicians, researchers, students, Executive Directors and Deans, and liaise with State and Commonwealth government departments.
• Take part in a shared on-call roster and respond to issues during and outside normal hours.

Required profile

• Degree in Veterinary Science or equivalent, registered as a veterinary surgeon in South Australia.
• Experience advising on ethical animal use in research and teaching, and in animal husbandry and clinical veterinary services across species.
• Experience giving high-level advice to senior leaders and stakeholders, and promoting compliance with organisational values.
• Collaborative, adaptable veterinary professional with strong communication skills and the ability to handle complex, sensitive situations professionally.

Required skills

• Knowledge of the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes and relevant state and national legislation on biomedical research.
• Ability to engage with researchers and senior leaders and to promote compliance with behaviour expectations.

Applicants must be Australian or New Zealand citizens, Australian permanent residents, or hold the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment. Applications close on 30 October 2026 and require a CV and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria.