Director of Health Research Institute

About the role

The Director will provide strategic and operational leadership for the Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, a nationally recognised health research institute within the Faculty of Health Sciences at Australian Catholic University. Reporting to the Executive Dean, the role is pivotal in advancing ACU's research strategy, reputation and impact on health and wellbeing.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of the Institute’s strategic agenda.
• Foster a culture of research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Build and sustain high‑value partnerships with government, industry, healthcare, community and university sectors.
• Grow research impact, external funding and commercialisation opportunities.
• Support the development of future research leaders and mentor senior researchers.
• Drive innovation across the research‑teaching‑engagement nexus.
• Ensure the Institute’s financial sustainability and growth.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant health, medical, behavioural or related discipline.
• Distinguished record of research leadership, excellence and competitive grant success.
• Experience leading large, complex research institutes, centres or equivalent organisations.
• Proven ability to develop and sustain strategic partnerships across multiple sectors.
• Experience driving research growth, impact, commercialization and funding outcomes.
• Strong track record of mentoring researchers and supervising higher degree candidates.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills.
• Ability to lead organisational change and inspire high‑performing teams.

Required skills