"Chief Medical Officer (CMO)"

Seek Overview

The UNSW RNA Institute is seeking an inaugural Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to lead the translation of cutting-edge RNA research into meaningful clinical outcomes.

The organisation

Established in 2021 with major NSW Government investment, the UNSW RNA Institute brings together more than 30 academic groups across UNSW to advance RNA discovery, translational research and ecosystem development. Embedded within the Faculty of Medicine & Health, the Institute plays a central role in building Australia’s sovereign RNA capability, including the delivery of a clinical-grade RNA manufacturing facility due in 2026.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine & Health and working closely with the Institute Director, the Chief Medical Officer is a foundational leadership appointment for the Institute.

In its first 12–18 months, this role will focus on building the clinical and translational foundations needed to progress discovery science into human trials and real-world health impact.

The CMO will:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with industry, government and the clinical community, attracting meaningful partnerships and funding
• Guide assessment and prioritisation of therapeutic concepts with genuine translational potential
• Shape clinical development, regulatory strategy, drug safety and medical affairs activities
• Act as a trusted interface between discovery scientists, clinicians, regulators, government and global pharma and biotech partners

This is an influential role that will operate across a complex academic and clinical environment to align research ambition with clinical and regulatory outcomes.

About you

You will be a highly credible translational leader with experience successfully moving therapeutics from pre-clinical development into human trials. Your background may include:

• A medical practitioner with deep industry clinical development experience, who ideally is registered or eligible to be registered in Australia (AHPRA)
• Demonstrated experience in clinical trials, ideally including first-in-human and early-phase
• The ability to lead by influence, build trust with diverse stakeholders, and navigate complex environments
• Strong understanding of regulatory pathways, clinical operations and risk management
• Experience operating at the intersection of academia, industry, government and healthcare

RNA experience is advantageous but not essential — clinical development judgement and translational credibility are paramount.

What’s on Offer

• High-impact, newly created leadership role with strong institutional and government backing
• A rare opportunity to shape Australia’s RNA clinical translation capability
• Level E Professorial /Professor of practice appointment with clinical loading where applicable
• Collegial, intellectually exceptional environment with national and global reach
• Initial two-year contract with strong likelihood of extension

How to Apply

For a confidential discussion or role-related questions, please contact Phil Graham and Sarah Curran of The Orchard Talent Group at chiefmedicalofficer@orchardtalent.com.au

To apply, please submit your current CV via the link. Applicants must have the legal right to work in Australia.

Applications close: Tuesday 3rd February, 2026.