Associate Director, Research Operations

The University of Western Australia; Crawley; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious Australian university in Crawley is seeking to appoint a leader for their Office of Research. This role involves shaping research strategy and managing a dedicated team. Candidates should possess a research degree or equivalent, alongside extensive management experience and exceptional strategic planning skills. The position offers an attractive and flexible remuneration package, contributing to impactful research support. Applicants must have rights to work in Australia.

Benefits

Attractive and flexible remuneration package

Qualifications

• A research degree or equivalent level of knowledge.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Australia higher education research funding and compliance environment.
• Extensive management experience at an appropriate level.

Responsibilities

• Support the Director in developing the Office of Research Strategy.
• Lead and manage a team providing operational research support.
• Oversee the implementation of initiatives to ensure alignment with research objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Strategic planning

Organizational skills

Education

Research degree or equivalent

Job description

The University of Western Australia – Crawley WA

• Shape UWA’s research strategy and operations.
• Lead a team driving impactful research support.
• Full-time appointment on an ongoing basis.
• Attractive and flexible Remuneration Package.

About the area

The Office of Research is responsible for formulating and providing policy advice, and for developing and implementing initiatives to effectively solicit, coordinate and administer externally and internally funded research activities which enhance the University’s research reputation. The Research Operations team is responsible for the procurement and administration of internally and externally funded research grants, contracts and fellowships, and for capturing, promoting and measuring research excellence and impact.

About the opportunity

• Support the Director in developing the Office of Research Strategy and collaborate with the operational team to deliver the strategy effectively.
• Lead and manage a team of professional staff providing operational research support, including managing, administering, and reporting on research funds.
• Oversee the implementation of strategic and operational initiatives to ensure alignment with the University’s research objectives.

About you

• A research degree or demonstrated equivalent level of knowledge gained through any combination of education, training and/or experience.
• Comprehensive and significant knowledge of the Australia higher education research funding and compliance environment.
• Extensive management experience at an appropriate level, with a demonstrated ability to provide high level, effective leadership, motivation and direction to significant teams of staff.
• Demonstrated track record of success in negotiating and coordinating complex contract management and administration, including drafting, negotiating, reviewing and administration of research contracts with significant stakeholders including the Commonwealth Government, industry partners and other research institutions.
• Excellent strategic planning and organisational skills, in managing and executing multiple concurrent work streams with an ability to set priorities and meet deadlines to ensure completion.

Note: A current National Police Clearance Certificate will be required by the successful applicant.

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Laila Simpson at *************@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Wednesday, 14 January 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at ******@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.