Institute Director, Institute for Molecular Bioscience

Lead UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience and unite outstanding people, discovery and partnerships to improve lives worldwide.

• Shape the future of a globally recognised bioscience research institute
• Inspire outstanding researchers and build a thriving, inclusive culture
• Turn scientific discovery into global impact through powerful partnerships

The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching universities, bringing together exceptional people to advance knowledge and deliver benefits for communities worldwide.

Based at UQ’s St Lucia campus in Brisbane, the Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) is a globally recognised research institute working at the intersection of biology, chemistry and medicine. Home to more than 300 staff and almost 160 higher degree research scholars, IMB combines outstanding discovery science with a strong record of translation and commercialisation. Its multidisciplinary teams tackle major challenges in human health and develop sustainable solutions for the future.

This is an opportunity to shape the next chapter of one of Australia’s premier bioscience research institutes, building on established scientific strengths and an ambitious, internationally connected research community.

Reporting to the Provost and Senior Vice-President, the Institute Director will set IMB’s strategic vision and lead its people, performance and partnerships. You will inspire collaboration across disciplines, attract and develop outstanding talent, and create an inclusive environment where researchers, professional staff and students can thrive.

Working closely with UQ leadership, you will strengthen connections across the University and with industry, government, research organisations and philanthropic partners. You will grow research investment, ensure financial sustainability and advance the translation of discoveries into outcomes that improve lives.

The appointment offers scope to maintain or establish your own research program alongside your leadership responsibilities. This executive position is offered on a five-year, fixed-term contract, with relocation and employer-sponsored work rights support potentially available.

You are an accomplished scientific leader who combines international research credibility with the vision, judgement and interpersonal skills to lead a complex research organisation. You will bring:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline and a distinguished research record, with recognition as a leading scientific authority.
• Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary research teams, setting strategic direction and delivering organisational outcomes.
• An inclusive, collegiate leadership style, with a strong commitment to transparency, equity, integrity and the development of others.
• Experience overseeing significant financial, people and research resources, with sound governance and commercial judgement.
• A record of advancing research translation and commercialisation through productive collaboration.
• Strong networks and the ability to secure research investment and build enduring partnerships across academia, industry, government and philanthropy.
• Highly developed communication and influencing skills, with the diplomacy and resilience to unite people around a shared vision.

UQ values diversity and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their potential and achievements relative to opportunity.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Marcus Engeman, Managing Director, Hoffmann Reed, on +61 431 804 418 or marcus@hoffmannreed.com.au.

To apply, email your cover letter, comprehensive CV and a response addressing the selection criteria (maximum two pages) to confidential@hoffmannreed.com.au by 11pm AEST on Sunday 17 January, 2027.