About This Opportunity
The University of Queensland’s newly established Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences is seeking an internationally renowned academic leader to drive the future of the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI). The Director plays a pivotal role in shaping neuroscience research in Queensland and beyond, developing and implementing a strategic vision that positions QBI at the forefront of the field.
In this role, you will lead and inspire an outstanding research community, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and impact. You will build strong partnerships with industry, government, healthcare sector and other stakeholders to translate research into real-world applications. You will drive research impact by securing significant funding, mentoring the next generation of neuroscientists, and effectively communicating discoveries to the broader community.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a world-class institution and make a significant contribution to improving lives by furthering our vision to better understand the brain in health and disease.
About The Queensland Brain Institute
The Queensland Brain Institute at UQ is at the forefront of neuroscience, pushing the boundaries of discovery to transform our understanding of the brain in health and disease. Since its establishment in 2003, QBI has been a global leader in tackling two of the greatest frontiers in modern science: deciphering brain function and pioneering breakthrough treatments for neurological and mental health disorders.
QBI is dedicated to unlocking the complexities of the brain—from the intricate neural circuits that drive behaviour to the mechanisms behind devastating conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, and motor neurone disease (MND). By bridging fundamental research with real-world application, QBI accelerates innovation in neuroscience, translating discoveries into next-generation therapies through strategic collaborations with clinicians and industry leaders.
Home to world-class faculty and cutting-edge facilities for high-resolution imaging and advanced behavioural analysis, QBI is a powerhouse of scientific excellence. To drive targeted impact, the institute has established specialised research centres, ensuring that its breakthroughs shape the future of brain health and redefine what’s possible in neuroscience.
About You
You will possess a PhD in an area aligned with the Institute’s existing strengths, with demonstrated expertise and a significant international reputation in one or more relevant fields. You will have an active and robust teaching portfolio, with a proven research track record in publications, competitive grants, and effective PhD supervision. You will be a strategic leader with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, enabling you to motivate and manage large, complex and diverse teams while inspiring collaboration among researchers.
Additionally, you will have the ability to shape organisational culture, implement a compelling vision, and enhance the standing of the Institute and Faculty.
A cross-disciplinary understanding of research, teaching and student experience is critical to effectively support and encourage academic staff in their teaching and learning endeavours. You will also demonstrate strong influencing and negotiation skills, building strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. A solid understanding of the relevant legislation supporting University priorities, policies, and procedures, including equal opportunity and occupational health and safety, is also required.
The successful candidate will be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including right to work in Australia, criminal history and education check.
Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.
Want to Apply?
If you’d like to have a confidential discussion or would like to obtain the full information pack, please contact Shiann Fait and Michael Walsh (Principal Advisors, Talent Acquisition) via talent@uq.edu.au. As part of the internal UQ community, we’re genuinely committed to finding an exceptional leader we’ll continue to work with longer-term, so we’ll ensure we also support you throughout the recruitment process.
When you’re ready to submit an application, we ask that you please create a profile via our careers website and upload the following documents:
- Full curriculum vitae
- Cover letter
- Responses to the ‘About You’ section, as listed in the Appointment Booklet
Other Information
UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.
We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments.
Applications close Monday, 19 May at 11.00pm AEST (R-47646).
