Executive Director, MWAC

Executive Director – Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre

Executive Director, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre (MWAC) will lead one of UNSW’s most significant research infrastructure platforms through its next phase of growth, impact and service excellence. MWAC is a nationally recognised centre delivering a comprehensive suite of core research facilities across science, engineering, medicine and biomedical research, supporting UNSW faculties, external users, industry and national research collaborations.

• Lead Australia’s largest shared facility in Australia, a ‘powerhouse’ of UNSW.
• Work closely with the PVCRI to shape the future of the Centre to provide leading‑edge research infrastructure at UNSW.
• Competitive Remuneration Package
• Full‑time role (35 hours per week)

Working closely with the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research Infrastructure and the MWAC senior leadership team, this role will shape the Centre’s strategy, strengthen service delivery, lead major infrastructure planning, support funding applications, build national and international partnerships, and ensure MWAC continues to enable world‑class research and translation across UNSW.

• A PhD and an internationally recognised research profile in a relevant discipline aligned with the mission and capabilities of the Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, such as science, engineering, biomedical or medical sciences
• A strong research track record commensurate with the academic level of the appointment, including demonstrated leadership of complex research infrastructure, platforms, programs, or institutes.
• Proven experience in leading and developing multiple shared research facilities, or core laboratories, to success.
• Demonstrated experience in leading initiatives in research infrastructure and in engaging widely with researchers in the sector.
• Extensive knowledge of governance, policy, regulatory, and compliance requirements relevant to research infrastructure and laboratory‑based environments within the higher education or research sector.
• Demonstrated success in securing research infrastructure funding from government agencies, industry partners, and other sources.
• Excellent people management skills and experience at a senior level, including a strong commitment to staff development and equity and diversity.
• Strong strategic planning and visioning skills, with the ability to align Centre goals with broader organisational objectives.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• A track record of fostering interdisciplinary research collaborations and partnerships.
• Experience in managing budgets, resources, and research infrastructure effectively.
• Knowledge of research ethics, integrity, and compliance requirements.
• A commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable research environment.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with the capacity to think strategically, inspire teams, implement strategic plans, oversee budgets, and lead change in a group of complex research facilities.
• Strong influencing and negotiation skills with demonstrated ability to build both internal and external relationships and networks.
• Demonstrated capacity to contribute to the university’s agreed strategic direction.

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.