Impact-Driven Director of Research & Innovation

Ccentric Holdings; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

The Centre for Disability Studies invites a Director of Research and Innovation to lead its research program, mentor staff, and build capability to translate research into policy and practice that benefits people with disability.

Based at the University of Sydney with hybrid working, the role drives national and international partnerships, secures major funding, and aligns academic leadership with real-world impact.

Qualifications

• You will hold a PhD in health sciences, disability studies or a related discipline.
• At least five years’ research leadership experience with a strong record of competitive funding.
• A substantial publication record across peer‑reviewed research, policy or technical outputs.
• Experience mentoring researchers, students or early‑career academics.
• Experience collaborating with universities, research institutes and external partners.
• Strong understanding of research ethics and university HREC processes.
• Experience across qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods and participatory approaches.
• Demonstrated experience working with people with intellectual disability and a commitment to inclusive research and accessible practice.
• Ability to translate research into policy, practice or community impact.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills for diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead CDS's research program and strengthen its national and international profile.
• Develop and secure major research funding through competitive grants.
• Mentor researchers and build research capability across the team.
• Foster partnerships with university, government and disability sector organisations.
• Embed lived-experience expertise across the research program.
• Translate research into policy, practice and service delivery influences.

Skills

Research leadership

Grant development

Stakeholder engagement

Mentoring

Policy translation

Education

PhD in health sciences or disability studies

Job description

The Centre for Disability Studies invites a Director of Research and Innovation to lead its research program, mentor staff, and build capability to translate research into policy and practice that benefits people with disability.

Based at the University of Sydney with hybrid working, the role drives national and international partnerships, secures major funding, and aligns academic leadership with real-world impact.