"Director, La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture & Food"

About the opportunity

La Trobe University is seeking to appoint the next Director of the La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture & Food (LISAF), one of the University’s flagship research institutes. With a mission to deliver impactful, translational research across the agri-food value chain (“from paddock to gut”), LISAF is at the forefront of addressing global challenges in food security, sustainable agriculture and health. This is a significant leadership opportunity to shape the strategic and operational direction of the Institute and advance La Trobe’s ambition to be a global leader in agri-food research and innovation.

With the impending retirement of the current Director, and reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Industry Engagement), the successful appointee will work closely with colleagues across the University and externally to enhance LISAF’s profile and partnerships. You will be responsible for setting the Institute’s strategic direction, building capability, and securing research income and industry partnerships. You will play a central role in the University’s strategy to develop the agri-food ecosystem in Melbourne’s north and in realising the potential of La Trobe’s Research and Innovation Precinct.

About you

We are seeking an exceptional academic leader with international standing in a field aligned to LISAF’s mission, such as plant-based foods, agri-biotechnology or nutrition science. You will bring a strong research profile, a recognised record of innovation and research translation, and experience securing funding through competitive grants, philanthropy or industry engagement.

You will be comfortable working across disciplines and sectors, with the ability to foster collaboration and build strategic partnerships with government, industry and research institutions. Your leadership will be central to deepening engagement, guiding the Institute’s future direction and ensuring its research delivers tangible outcomes. An inclusive and collegial approach, sound judgement and the ability to mentor and inspire others will be key to your success.

How to apply

Odgers is assisting La Trobe University with this appointment. More information on the role can be found at www.odgers.com/94111

For a confidential conversation please contact Dr Alistair Clark on +61 2 8905 3743 or Alistair.Clark@odgers.com or Mazin Almaimani on +61 3 8375 7408 or Mazin.Almaimani@odgers.com.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 21 August 2025.

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Why La Trobe:

Develop your career at an innovative, global university where you’ll collaborate with community and industry to create impact. Enjoy working on our inspiring and stunning campuses – the perfect hub for industry, students and academics Help transform the lives of students, partners and communities now and in future

All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.