Since its foundation in 1954 as an independent learned academy, the Australian Academy of Science has championed science for the benefit of all. Independent, evidence-based, and inclusive, the Academy works tirelessly to convene experts and deliver sought-after scientific advice that influences Australia’s actions and contributes to global science.

The Academy is an independent non-profit organisation that recognises outstanding contributions to science and research, provides expert advice to government, contributes to the development of science policy, promotes science education and public understanding of science, and fosters international scientific relations.

Presently, the Academy is seeking to appoint a new Director, Science Policy and International Affairs. A full-time, ongoing role, based in Canberra, the Director will play a major part in strengthening the Academy’s initiatives both nationally and internationally, responding to the external environment actively and strategically, and helping to chart a course for the Academy to meet society’s challenges with agility and insight.

Acknowledging science’s universal language and absence of borders, this senior executive role will lead a high-performing team and consult widely with stakeholders locally and abroad, from academia, industry, the STEM sector, state and federal governments, through to international scientific bodies. In doing so, it will spearhead initiatives to shape and influence national policies and international science diplomacy efforts to extend Australia’s scientific engagement and ability to lead and deliver critical outcomes in a responsive, targeted, and sustainable manner.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, and accountable to the Secretary Science Policy and the Foreign Secretary, the role requires a professional of the highest calibre to strengthen organisational effectiveness and vision in the conception, development, and delivery of scientific advice, designed to reinforce the Academy’s standing as one of the world’s leading learned academies, whose reach and influence extends well beyond Australia’s shores.

The successful candidate will possess a sound knowledge and understanding of the local and international science sector and related areas, significant senior policy and/or international affairs experience, and be ready to bring curiosity, drive, intellectual rigour, resourcefulness, and creativity to the role.

The Academy will be supported in its global search for this appointment by the executive search firm, Perrett Laver.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Mazin Almaimani via email at [email protected], using the subject line: Director, Science Policy and International Affairs enquiry via EthicalJobs, or by phone on +61 (0)2 8075 4605.

Alternately, to submit your application online, please visit the Perrett Laver website, via the Apply Now link.

Reference number 7506.