Job Description

• Build influential partnerships across academia, government, industry and the defence sector to deliver real-world impact.
• Part-time (0.2 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis till November 2027.
• Base salary range: Level C, $149,909 – $172,441 (pro-rata) / Level D, $179,945 - $197,969 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation, with appointment level determined by experience and academic standing.

About the area

The UWA Defence and Security Institute (DSI) brings together expertise from across the University to advance defence and national security research, policy, engagement and education.

Working at the intersection of academia, government, industry and the defence community, the Institute strengthens UWA's contribution to addressing complex defence and security challenges facing Western Australia, Australia and the Indo-Pacific region.

DSI plays a key role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, building strategic partnerships, supporting research excellence and creating pathways for impactful engagement with national and international stakeholders.

About the opportunity

Reporting to the Director, UWA Defence and Security Institute, the Deputy Director will contribute to the strategic development, leadership and ongoing growth of the Institute.

Working closely with the Director, Advisory Board, Executive Committee and stakeholders across the University and external sectors, you will help strengthen UWA's position as a leader in defence and national security research and engagement.

In this role, you will:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the Institute's strategy and support initiatives that drive growth, impact and engagement.
• Build and maintain productive relationships across UWA, including with Schools, research institutes, researchers and senior leadership.
• Develop and strengthen partnerships with government, defence organisations, industry and national and international collaborators.
• Support researchers in identifying and pursuing defence and national security research opportunities, including competitive funding and collaborative projects.
• Represent the Institute at committees, forums, conferences and stakeholder engagements, both nationally and internationally.
• Contribute to outreach activities, public engagement initiatives and events that enhance the Institute's profile and impact.
• Act on behalf of the Director when required, including undertaking the responsibilities of Acting Director during periods of absence.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future direction of defence and national security research while working within a highly collaborative and strategically important university environment.

About you

We welcome applications from candidates with a strong academic background in defence and security, political science, engineering or another relevant discipline, who are passionate about building connections between research, policy and practice.

You will demonstrate:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline and an established track record of scholarly achievement, including research publications, successful funding applications and demonstrated research impact.
• Experience contributing to or leading strategic initiatives within a research, education, policy or innovation environment.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to develop productive relationships across academia, government, industry and defence sectors.
• Experience leading or supporting multidisciplinary collaborations and fostering a culture of collegiality, inclusion and excellence.
• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-management skills, with the capacity to represent the Institute and advocate for strategic priorities.

For appointment at Level D, candidates will additionally demonstrate a nationally recognised academic profile, a substantial record of leadership in research or education, and an established reputation for influencing strategic outcomes and partnerships at a national and/or international level.

Desirable:

• A disciplinary background and professional networks that complement and broaden the expertise of the Institute's leadership team.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A comprehensive background check will be required by the successful applicant.

PD [Deputy Director, UWA Defence and Security Institute] [LC] [523065].pdf, PD [Deputy Director, UWA Defence and Security Institute] [LD] [523065].pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Professor Gia Parish at defencedirector@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Petrina Gomez, Talent Advisor at petrina.gomez@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 16 August 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.