Research Director

Job Description

• Hybrid Working Arrangements – Camperdown Office
• Equivalent to Associate Professor/Professor Level D/Level E
• Lead research that changes lives

Are you a respected research leader with a passion for advancing the rights, inclusion and wellbeing of people with intellectual disability?

We are seeking an exceptional Research Director to lead the Centre for Disability Studies (CDS) ambitious and growing research program, driving meaningful change across policy, practice and community outcomes.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Research Director will provide strategic leadership for the Centre's research agenda, mentor a multidisciplinary research team, and position the Centre as a national and international leader in inclusive research and knowledge translation.

This role is equivalent to an Associate Professor or Professor-level appointment.

About CDS

CDS is a mission-led organisation with a national reputation for advancing knowledge, policy and practice in intellectual disability. Since 1997, it has worked collaboratively with people with intellectual disability, families, government, academia and service providers to deliver meaningful and measurable impact. With a formal research affiliation with Sydney University, CDS operates at the unique intersection of research, clinical practice, policy and education.

About the Role

As Research Director, you will deliver a research strategy that advances the Centre's mission and strengthens its reputation as a leader in intellectual disability research. You will lead major research funding initiatives, foster high-impact collaborations, and ensure research findings are translated into practical improvements in policy, services and community outcomes.

Key focus areas include: Research leadership, Team leadership and mentorship, Strategic planning and implementation, Inclusive and ethical research and practice.

About You

You are a recognised leader in disability research with a strong track record of securing competitive funding, leading impactful research programs and influencing policy and practice.

You will bring: A PhD in Health Sciences, Disability Studies, Public Health, Social Sciences or a related field. Significant senior research leadership experience, ideally within intellectual disability research. A strong track record of attracting competitive research funding and leading successful grant applications. Demonstrated experience collaborating with universities, research institutes and external stakeholders. Experience working alongside people with intellectual disability and a commitment to inclusive research principles. Strong publication record across peer-reviewed journals, research reports and policy-relevant outputs. Expertise across qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods and participatory research approaches. Outstanding stakeholder engagement, communication and relationship-building skills. A commitment to translating research into real-world impact. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively across organisations.

Why Join?

This is an opportunity to lead research that matters. We offer: A highly collaborative and purpose-driven environment. The opportunity to shape a nationally significant research agenda. Strong university and sector partnerships. Flexible hybrid working arrangements. A culture that values inclusion, innovation and impact.