About the opportunity
The position is a joint initiative between Family Planning Australia and the Cancer Elimination Collaboration (CEC) in the School of Public Health at the University of Sydney. FPA and CEC researchers have an established track record of impactful collaboration, particularly in generating evidence and developing programs to underpin the World Health Organization's Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy. This role will provide a functional link between the organisations, bridging academic inquiry and clinical practice/program delivery, to enable research that is translational, world-class and multidisciplinary. 

Family Planning Australia is the leading provider of reproductive and sexual health services in NSW, including an established research centre, best-practice, accredited clinical services, evidence-based information, professional education and training, and an International Development program in the Pacific. The CEC is a research initiative based in Australia’s oldest university, and is one of the world’s most prestigious faculties of medicine and health. The CEC develops and leverages partnerships to accelerate the elimination of all cancers and support cancer control in partner countries.

Appointed at an appropriate academic level (Professor, Associate Professor, or Senior Research Fellow), the Director will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership to ensure FPA and the CEC remain at the forefront of sexual and reproductive research and innovation. Working closely with the FPA CEO and the Director of the CEC, Professor Karen Canfell, they will, contribute to the delivery of research outputs, lead competitive research funding applications, manage junior researchers, supervise HDR students, represent FPA and the CEC at scientific meetings and on advisory groups, and support a culture of collaboration. They will be responsible for the management of the FPA Research Centre’s team, strategic direction, research performance, financial sustainability, and engagement with industry, government, and international collaborators.

Exceptional leaders from academia, healthcare, industry, government, or applied research organisations are encouraged to apply. The appointment will be tailored to the successful candidate’s qualifications, experience, and career trajectory.

How to apply
Refer to the recruitment information package for details of selection criteria. Recruitment package can be obtained from HR@fpnsw.org.au

Please submit your current resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria listed in the position description. The position description is located within the recruitment pack. Please email HR@fpnsw.org.au to obtain this. We will be reviewing applications regularly, and the advertisement may be closed early if the position is successfully recruited to.

Family Planning Australia is an EEO employer and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Closing date for the role is 31 March, 2026

Family Planning Australia does not accept unsolicited agency resumes or applications and is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited agency resumes or applications.