Deakin University is undertaking a comprehensive search for the next Director of the Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM). Ranked in the global top 300 universities (QS and THE 2022), Deakin aspires to be Australia's most progressive and responsive university, intimately connected to the varied communities it serves through innovation and excellence in education and research, while enhancing its global impact. In keeping with its strategy Deakin 2030: Ideas to Impact, Deakin prides itself on fundamental research strongly connected to the innovative translation of our ideas into new services, products, policies and capabilities.

The IFM exemplifies this discovery coupled with a translational and commercial orientation. With its focus on novel research in materials science and engineering, from advanced alloys to electromaterials and nanotechnologies, the IFM is committed enhancing the sustainability of material functionality and lifecycles, amid the transition to the circular economy. Overseeing more than 200 staff and a budget of more than $30m, the Director is the strategic research leader and manager of the IFM and its outward face.

Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), the next Director will be an esteemed research leader in a field germane to the IFM’s strengths, with demonstrable strategic acumen and track record of delivery. They will demonstrate the experience and acumen both to manage a complex, autonomous entity and to foster discovery and transdisciplinary, translational research that has industrial and societal relevance. We are seeking an entrepreneurial innovator who can inspire the outstanding researchers within the IFM while building for the future. This appointee will be adept at engagement outside the academy, with a range of stakeholders in industry, government and other research agencies, able to promote a multisectoral eco-system of genuine innovation and impact.

If you wish to discuss this role further in confidence, please contact Deputy Vice Chancellor, Alfred Deakin Professor, Julie Owens on (03) 5227 3486 or via email [email protected]

The deadline for applications is 11.59pm AEDT on Sunday 13th February 2022.