Research Infrastructure and Operations Manager

Help Shape the Future of Brain Research

Applications must be submitted via: https://employmenthero.com/jobs/organisations/py6ev4y1gx/

Unfortunately, we are unable to consider applications submitted by any other method.

Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) is a leading independent medical research institute whose vision is to improve the health and lives of those living with brain and nervous system disorders. NeuRA’s mission is to discover solutions for neurodegeneration, mental health and healthy ageing through world-class medical research. NeuRA has world-class research facilities and is based at Randwick in Sydney.

Our values are the essence of our organisation – they are the principles that we live by and are at the core of everything we do. NeuRA’s values are:  

Excellence. Integrity. Inclusion. Openness. Impact  

We are seeking an experienced Research Infrastructure & Operations Manager to lead the strategic development, governance and operational management of NeuRA’s research infrastructure ecosystem. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in enabling groundbreaking discoveries by ensuring our researchers have access to the facilities, systems, resources and support they need to deliver exceptional science.

Salary: $205,000 per annum (inclusive of 12% superannuation), plus access to salary packaging benefits and other employee benefits.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Research Officer, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across NeuRA’s research infrastructure portfolio, helping drive innovation, quality, compliance and efficiency across the organisation.

You will oversee a diverse range of research environments and capabilities, including:

• PC1 and PC2 laboratory facilities
• Clinical research and clinical trial spaces
• Animal and imaging facilities
• Digital research infrastructure and data environments
• Cold storage and specialised research equipment
• Shared research facilities and technical platforms

Working closely with researchers, professional services teams, external partners and executives, you will develop and implement a sustainable research infrastructure strategy that strengthens NeuRA’s research capability and supports its long-term growth and impact.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Research Enablement –

• Develop and implement NeuRA’s research infrastructure strategy and roadmap.
• Lead the continuous improvement of shared research facilities and infrastructure.
• Identify current and future infrastructure needs to support research growth.
• Provide expert advice to Chief Investigators, research leaders and executive stakeholders.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing research environment that supports innovation and excellence.

Operations & Facility Management –

• Provide operational oversight of core research facilities and shared infrastructure.
• Drive efficient utilisation of research spaces, equipment and technical resources.
• Manage infrastructure-related contracts, suppliers and service providers, including ICT services where applicable.
• Resolve complex operational challenges and ensure continuity of critical research activities.

Governance, Quality & Compliance –

• Develop and implement quality frameworks, policies, procedures and governance structures.
• Ensure compliance with ethics requirements, regulatory obligations, WHS standards and research best practices.
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to strengthen research quality, safety and operational effectiveness.
• Lead audit, reporting and continuous improvement activities.

Infrastructure Planning & Resource Management –

• Support strategic planning and investment decisions relating to research infrastructure.
• Contribute to business cases, funding applications and infrastructure grant submissions.
• Assist with budgeting, resource planning and the development of sustainable operating models.
• Monitor performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and research outcomes.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication –

• Build trusted relationships across NeuRA, UNSW and external research partners.
• Chair and contribute to relevant committees and working groups.
• Facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
• Provide strategic reporting, analysis and recommendations to senior leadership and governance committees.

About You

You are a strategic thinker and experienced research operations professional who thrives in complex environments and enjoys working with a broad range of stakeholders.

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification and/or significant experience managing research infrastructure within a research, medical research, university or health environment.
• Strong knowledge of research governance, compliance, ethics and responsible research practices.
• Experience overseeing research facilities, laboratories, technical platforms or shared infrastructure.
• Understanding of research environments, including areas such as laboratory operations, OGTR certification, research data management and digital research infrastructure.
• Demonstrated experience leading large projects and managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving capabilities.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical audiences.

Why Join NeuRA?

At NeuRA, you’ll be part of an organisation driven by a shared purpose: improving the health and lives of people living with neurological and mental health conditions.

Beyond the opportunity to support world-class research, you’ll join a team that is collaborative, approachable and genuinely enjoyable to work with. We value open communication, sharing ideas and helping each other succeed. While we’re passionate about our work, we also enjoy having a laugh, celebrating successes and bringing a sense of humour to the day-to-day.

Benefits and Perks:

• Up to 18 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of continuous service
• Additional paid “NeuRA Days” during the Christmas shutdown period
• Salary packaging options to help maximise your take-home pay
• Novated leasing opportunities
• Fitness Passport membership program
• Professional development opportunities to support your career growth
• Modern Randwick location close to public transport and local amenities
• Exclusive staff discounts at restaurants and retailers within Newmarket Randwick

Diversity & Inclusion

NeuRA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to promoting equality of opportunity and eliminating discrimination in all employment practices. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and pay our respects to Elders past and present.

EEO and Right to Work Statement

You must have the right to live and work in Australia for the duration of your appointment at NeuRA.

Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and eliminating discrimination in all our employment policies and practices.

Acknowledgement of Country

NeuRA acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work, and extends respect to all Elders past, present, and emerging.