Senior Research Grants and Development Manager - closing 1 November 2020

Research Grants and Development Office

The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Parkville, Australia
We have an excellent and exciting opportunity for three experienced Senior Research Grants and Development Managers to join our newly created team.

About Walter & Eliza Hall Institute 
The Institute is one of Australia’s leading biomedical research organisations, with a strong national and international reputation for performing highly influential basic and translational research.  With more than 1,100 staff and students, the Institute is addressing some of the major health challenges of our time, with a focus on cancer, infection, inflammation, immune disorders, development and ageing.

About the position
In this newly created senior and diverse role, you will lead research grants development, submission and management of awards at the Institute. You will be responsible for the hands-on development and implementation of research strategies and provision of operational support across a range of research development activities within Thematic areas as well as across the Institute. You will provide subject-matter-expertise to researchers, team members, Professional Services Teams and senior leaders in the preparation of competitive research grants.

Each position will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of an institute-wide strategy for either NHMRC, MRFF or International, Philanthropic and Industry research funding (applications and awards).

In addition, you will also play a leading role in researcher grants education and development. Working in close partnership with research leaders and Professional Services Teams, you will develop and implement strategies, policies and programs to improve the capability of researchers at the Institute.

Selection Criteria
We are seeking candidates who have an inclusive working style, a high level of energy coupled with the initiative and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment! We want people who will work supportively within a small team and collaboratively across the Institute and are committed to continuous personal and business improvement.  

To be successful in this role you will have:

  • Relevant tertiary qualifications, ideally postgraduate degree in a science discipline or demonstrated equivalent experience and/or training.
  • Track record of achievement in partnering with researchers to generate new funding leads and driving the successful development and management of complex research grants.
  • Demonstrated expertise in developing research funding strategies in consultation with a range of stakeholders and implementing these strategies to increase research income from government (e.g. NHMRC, MRFF etc.) and / or other funding sources (e.g. philanthropic, industry etc.) at an organisational level.
  • Grant writing, editing and proposal development experience for a range of funding opportunities including from government, philanthropic and industry sources.
  • Extensive understanding of the global research funding landscape and how to attract and administer competitive research funding through these funding agencies.
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the demonstrated ability to lead, influence and negotiate effectively and sensitively with senior leaders, researchers, professional services colleagues, and external bodies.
  • Planning and organisational skills and demonstrated capacity to prioritise and multitask, with experience allocating resources and working across multiple initiatives while meeting deadlines.
  • Proven track record of high level analytical, conceptual and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience in establishing researcher development programs in a large research environment in collaboration with senior leaders and relevant business units.
  • Experience in grant management, including contract review and negotiation, variations, reporting (scientific and financial).

Terms of Appointment

This position is available for 3 years in a full-time capacity. Salary is HEW 9 ($119,220 - $124,038) dependant on experience. Up to 17% superannuation and very attractive salary packaging options are available.

General enquiries can be directed to Dr Sejal Kendal, Head, Research Grants and Development, Kendal.s@wehi.edu.au

A position description for Senior Research Grants and Development Managers (NHRMC) is available here.

A position description for Senior Research Grants and Development Managers (MRFF) is available here.

A position description for Senior Research Grants and Development Managers (International, Philanthropy and Industry) is available here.

How to apply
Please email your application including cover letter, CV and a letter addressing the key selection criteria in pdf format to jobapplications@wehi.edu.au, quoting reference WEHI/JRMGR121020 in the subject line and indicating whether your application is for NHMRC, MRFF or International, Philanthropy and Industry.

Application closing date:  1 November 2020

At the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute we strive to ensure our staff and students enjoy a great working environment.  We value diversity and gender equity in our work force and promote flexible working arrangements for staff to balance working requirements and personal needs. We have implemented a number of gender equity initiatives to support female laboratory heads.