Deputy Director, Defence Research Institute

• Employment Type: Full time
• Duration: Continuing position
• Remuneration: Senior Appointment
• Location:  UNSW Canberra or Sydney campus

Why your role matters

The Deputy Director, Defence Research Institute (DRI), supports the Director in providing strategic leadership and direction for UNSW’s defence and national security research activities, fostering partnerships and translating the University’s research expertise, innovation and education capabilities into tangible outcomes for Defence, defence industry and the broader national security community.

The role focuses on building strong partnerships across academia, industry and government, identifying and developing research collaboration opportunities, and overseeing the Institute’s operations, programs and projects. The position works closely with UNSW researchers and external partners to strengthen UNSW’s contribution to defence innovation and capability.

The role reports to the Director, DRI and has two direct reports.

About UNSW

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. We are a large organisation with a diverse and highly talented community doing extraordinary work. We are driven to be thoughtful, practical and purposeful in all we do, and this collective approach is what gives our work impact. It is also why UNSW is consistently ranked among the world’s top 20 universities in the QS World University Rankings and is a proud member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight.

If you’re seeking a career where you can thrive, be challenged and contribute to meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

Benefits and Culture:

UNSW is committed to helping staff balance work-life responsibilities, by providing access to high-quality services, facilities, and flexible work and leave arrangements.

• Flexible working options (work from home, flexible hours etc.) can be discussed 
• Additional three days leave during December festive period
• Career development opportunities 
• Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
• Flexible 17% superannuation contributions, additional leave-loading payments and salary sacrifice
• UNSW-wide strategy to focus on Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Places and Healthy Culture. 

You can learn more about our Benefits and Culture at Lifestyle & Benefits UNSW

About you:

You have a relevant postgraduate qualification and or equivalent experience, along with extensive management experience in Defence or a defence- related sector. You bring strong stakeholder management, communication and negotiation skills, with a demonstrated ability to build influential networks and lead initiatives across diverse stakeholder groups.

You also have proven capability in strategic advice, project delivery, risk and budget management, with a track record of successfully delivering multiple complex projects. You will demonstrate a commitment to UNSW’s values and health and safety responsibilities.

Security clearance: The successful candidate must hold a minimum Baseline Australian Government security clearance. Candidates holding a current NV1 clearance are highly desirable.

How to apply: Please submit your CV and Cover Letter via the Apply button before 11.55pm, Sunday 1st November 2026. As part of the application process, you will also be asked to respond to two short free-format questions designed to help us better understand your experience.  A copy of the Position Description can be found on JOBS@UNSW.

Pre Employment Checks

As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.

Contact: Shiree Thomas – Talent Acquisition Partner: shiree.thomas@unsw.edu.au

Please note applications sent directly to the contact person will not be accepted

NSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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