- Senior leadership role with institution-wide responsibility for Higher Degree by Research
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A defining role advancing HDR growth, a priority in the University's new Strategic Plan
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Located in coastal NSW at one of Australia's most equity-committed universities
About the Role
The Director, Graduate Research, provides institution-wide strategic and operational leadership for Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programs at the University of Newcastle. Reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research, the Director leads the Graduate Research Office and ensures high-quality, consistent and efficient delivery across the full candidature lifecycle, from admissions and scholarships through candidature management, supervision, examination and completion.
In partnership with the Future Students team, Colleges and Schools, the Director also supports strategic HDR recruitment to build a strong, diverse and high-quality cohort. Growing the University’s HDR cohort is one of three headline research priorities in the Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2030, supported by investment in HDR recruitment infrastructure. and the Director will hold a pivotal role in advancing this agenda.
A central focus of the role is continuing to enhance HDR candidate experience, wellbeing and research training quality, whilst embedding equitable and inclusive practice that supports diverse cohorts, including international and Indigenous candidates. The Director will build strong, collaborative relationships across the University to ensure coherent and consistently high-quality HDR practice.
This is a senior strategic and operational leadership position with executive visibility, significant scope to shape institutional direction, and the opportunity to position the University as a sector leader in HDR education as we advance toward 2030. The role will be offered for an initial term of two years.
About You
You are an experienced senior leader with substantial expertise in research training, research management, higher education leadership, or a comparably complex policy-driven operational environment. You bring a sophisticated understanding of how policy frameworks translate into the day-to-day operation of a large, multi-stakeholder unit, and the credibility to operate as a peer to academic leaders across the University.
You hold a genuine interest in line management at scale and in building careers. Understanding that colleagues are persuaded by leaders who are credible, evidence-led, and invested in their success, you are comfortable leading through influence as well as authority. Importantly, you share the University’s commitment to equity, diversity and the inclusive support of HDR cohorts, including students who are first in their family to undertake higher education, and to Indigenous engagement and respect.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
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A postgraduate qualification together with substantial experience in research training, research management, higher education leadership or a related field;
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A demonstrated track record of leading complex academic or administrative functions and translating policy into reliable, high-quality operational delivery;
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Highly developed leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across academic and professional domains;
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A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity and candidate wellbeing, with experience supporting inclusive and high-quality research training environments.
For the full list of essential and desirable selection criteria, please contact Devereaux Consulting’s Managing Partner, Dr Jackie Besley on 0413 633 195 or email [email protected] to request a copy of the Candidate Information Booklet.
The Research and Innovation Division
The Research and Innovation Division underpins the University’s research enterprise, providing the strategy, systems, infrastructure and services that enable research excellence and impact. The Division supports HDR candidates and researchers, strengthens research capability, and ensures alignment with institutional priorities and national and international standards.
Graduate Research is central to the University’s research mission. The portfolio provides the governance, policies, systems and services that underpin the HDR lifecycle, working closely with Colleges, Schools and professional divisions to ensure high-quality training, strong supervision practice and a positive candidate experience. The Director leads this work in partnership with the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and Dean of Graduate Research.
University of Newcastle
The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader with a reputation for excellence in education and research, ranking in the top 1% of universities globally and among the top 40 for impact. Its vision is to be a world-leading university for its regions, creating a better future locally and globally. Underpinned by the values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030 sets out a commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving the University’s communities.
The University of Newcastle is proud to be one of the first two universities in Australia to achieve SAGE Athena Swan Silver Accreditation for gender equity, diversity and inclusion.
The University acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within its footprint areas and extends respect to Elders past and present. It is committed to strengthening Indigenous higher education and supporting Indigenous students and communities.
For more information, visit The University of Newcastle.
What the University Offers
The University offers a comprehensive and inclusive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing, career development and work-life balance, including:
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Flexible working arrangements in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy, supporting diverse family and personal commitments.
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17% superannuation, access to salary packaging options.
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Wellbeing and support programs that promote mental, physical and emotional health.
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Career development opportunities, including structured training and leadership development, support for research excellence, and opportunities for global collaboration and recognition.
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A great lifestyle — Newcastle offers the best of coastal living, with stunning natural beauty, a thriving cultural scene and easy connectivity to Sydney and other major cities. Visit City of Newcastle to imagine your future in Newcastle.
For further information on the University’s benefits and conditions, please visit the University website.
How to Apply
The University of Newcastle has appointed Devereaux Consulting to manage this search. To apply, please submit the following to Devereaux Consulting:
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A cover letter (no more than two pages) outlining your interest in the role and your suitability against the essential criteria;
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A curriculum vitae detailing your career history, qualifications and significant achievements;
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The names and contact details of three referees (referees will not be contacted without your prior consent).
To request the Candidate Information Booklet, please email [email protected] or for a confidential discussion, please contact Dr Jackie Besley, Managing Partner on 0413 633 195.
The University is committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for every member of its community. This commitment is central to the University’s values and its efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.
In alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026 the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of its recruitment processes.
The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position, and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.
The University’s adherence to the Code is about more than compliance: it is about living its values and ensuring the University remains a place where respect, safety and inclusion are non-negotiable.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application, please let Devereaux Consulting know. This information will help us understand how best to support you and ensure an equitable and inclusive recruitment process. Anything you share will be treated respectfully and in confidence.
Applications close: Thursday, 11 June 2026 at 11.59pm AEST
The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are warmly encouraged to apply.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.
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