Role type: Full time, Fixed-term for 2 years
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology
Department/School: School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Salary: Level D $180,254 - $198,584 p.a. plus 17% super
Level E $232,180 p.a. plus 17% super
- Provide strategic leadership for the Centre for Advanced Defence Research and Enterprise (CADRE), driving research translation and industry engagement in defence technologies.
- Opportunity to shape national defence capabilities by leading a collaborative initiative between top Australian universities and the Defence.
- Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.
The University of Melbourne We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website.
Your next career opportunity This is a remarkable opportunity to lead the Centre for Advanced Defence Research and Enterprise (CADRE) as its Director. You will drive cutting-edge research and innovation in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defence technologies, collaborating with top Australian universities and defence industry partners. Your leadership will be instrumental in building sovereign capabilities and translating research into real-world solutions for Australia's national security.
Your responsibilities will include: - Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the vision for CADRE, aligning with Defence objectives and university partner goals.
- Research Translation: Drive the advancement of tailored technology development and systems integration for key Defence capability aims.
- Ecosystem Development: Build and nurture relationships with academic, industry, and government partners to create a robust national defence research ecosystem.
- Talent Pipeline: Foster the development of postgraduate researchers and create pathways for careers in Defence science and industry.
- Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day operations of CADRE, including management of the Centre Manager and coordination with university partners.
You may be a great fit if: You are a proactive leader with a strong background in STEM disciplines and proven experience in delivering complex, multidisciplinary research projects in collaboration with industry and government partners.
You must also have: - A PhD in a relevant STEM discipline, with preferred experience in CBRN defence technologies, medical technologies or related fields.
- Demonstrated success in establishing and managing multi-institutional research partnerships
- Strong track record of engaging with government and industry stakeholders
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
- Experience in developing innovation and entrepreneurship programs
- The ability to gain baseline security clearance
For further information please refer to the attached PD.
What we offer you! We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:
- Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
- Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance
- Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance
- Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program
For more information check out our benefits page!
Your new team - School of Chemical and Biomedical EngineeringThe School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering encompasses both the Department of Chemical Engineering and the Department of Biomedical Engineering. This fusion of engineering disciplines provides a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment that is world leading in both research and teaching.
The Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (FEIT) has been the leading Australian provider of engineering and IT education and research for over 150 years. We are a multidisciplinary School organised into three key areas; Computing and Information Systems (CIS), Chemical and Biomedical Engineering (CBE) and Electrical, Mechanical and Infrastructure Engineering (EMI). FEIT continues to attract top staff and students with a global reputation and has a commitment to knowledge for the betterment of society.
Be Yourself The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have the opportunity to thrive regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, age, being a parent or having caring responsibilities.
The University of Melbourne is committed to fostering a barrier-free and inclusive recruitment process. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates throughout the application and interview stages, including accessible document formats and alternative application methods. To discuss your specific requirements, please feel free to contact Bec Tucker - 0478 269 660 or send an email titled 'Reasonable Adjustments' to
[email protected].
You can find more information for applicants requiring reasonable adjustments on our Careers website: https://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians, with unprecedented investment to attract, nurture and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. Tangible support through a range of programs and initiatives will ensure that you personally succeed and flourish while at the University of Melbourne.
For further information, including our 2023-2027 Indigenous strategy please visit -https://about.unimelb.edu.au/reconciliation/murmuk-djerring
If you are a member of an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community and would like any support, please feel free to contact our Indigenous Employment & Development team via email at [email protected].
Working at the University - what you need to know This role requires the successful candidate to maintain a Working with Children Check The successful candidate can apply for the WWCC as part of the onboarding process. In the case the selected candidate doesn't have a valid Working with Children Check, they will be able to apply for the WWCC as part of the initial onboarding procedures.
Please note: Visa sponsorship is available for this position. Join Us and unlock your career potential! Is this the perfect opportunity for you?
Apply today! Including the following documents:
- Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
- The responses against the Selection Criteria^ (found in the Position Description)
^For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/selection-criteria
If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process, please feel free to contact Shabon Nawabi via email ensuring that you include the Position Number and the Job Title as the subject.
Please do not share your application to this email address. If you have any particular questions regarding the job please follow the details listed on the Position Description.
Applications close: 30 August 2025 11:55 PM Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) / Melbourne time zone.
Position Description: Centre Director, CADRE PD.pdf