Associate Director, Research Operations

UWA; Crawley; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Australian university located in Crawley seeks an Associate Director for Research Operations. The role involves shaping research strategy and leading a professional team to enhance operational support for research activities. The ideal candidate will have a research degree, significant leadership experience, and knowledge of the higher education funding landscape. This full-time position offers an attractive and flexible remuneration package. Closing date for applications is 14 January 2026.

Benefits

26 weeks paid parental leave

4 weeks annual leave

17% superannuation

Discounted health insurance

Childcare options

Incremental progression based on service

Qualifications

• Significant knowledge of the Australian higher education research funding environment.
• Extensive management experience with leadership skills to motivate teams.
• Track record of managing complex contracts with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Shape the research strategy and operations.
• Lead and manage a team providing operational research support.
• Oversee initiatives aligning with the university's research objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Negotiation Skills

Research Management

Compliance Knowledge

Education

Research degree or equivalent experience

Job description

• 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
• 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
• 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
• Salary packaging options.
• 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
• 25% off UWA full fee courses, discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.

Associate Director, Research Operations

Job no: 522207
Work type: Full Time
Location: Crawley
Categories: Policy and Planning, Research support, Executive

• 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.

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.

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.

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 [e-mail] with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.

Advertised: 15 Dec 2025 W. Australia Standard Time
Applications close: 14 Jan 2026 W. Australia Standard Time