Lead a critical facility that supports cutting-edge discovery and innovation
Bring your unique skills to a world leading medical research institute
Attractive salary packaging & superannuation options

About QIMR Berghofer:

QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute focused on improving health by developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies, specifically in the areas of Cancer Research, Infection and Inflammation, Brain and Mental Health, and Population Health. Based in Herston, Brisbane and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and non-research staff.

About the Animal Facility:

The Scientific Services Department provides a diverse array of support services to researchers; including flow cytometry, microscopy, histology, GMP production, animal facilities, veterinary, analytical facilities, sample processing, scientific equipment management, and cryogenics.

This position will lead the Animal Facility, which is a vital component of the Institute. The facility is world class and one of the largest in Australia.

Role Purpose / Responsibilities:

This position will provide strategic, operational, and people leadership across experimental, transgenic, and operational teams. You will oversee the delivery of animal care and husbandry services that enable world-class research outcomes, while ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, codes of practice, and institutional requirements.

The following duties will apply;

Leading and managing experimental, transgenic, and operational teams to maintain functional operations of the Animal Facility, and provide animal care and husbandry for medical research scientists at QIMR Berghofer.
Ensuring that all animal related activities within the facility complies with current legislation and codes of practice by reviewing procedures and systems implemented for management of animal records, auditing work practices, preparing regulatory compliance reports, and providing workforce training.
Managing the strategic and fiscal responsibilities of the facility to ensure the facility meets the needs of a changing research environment.
Managing a large team of technical and operational staff through providing clear communication, setting expectations, providing ongoing training and feedback to foster professional growth.
Cultivating a positive and productive working culture that supports collaboration, engagement and excellence across the Animal Facility.
Implementation and review of policies and procedures, auditing of safety practices, and providing comprehensive staff training.
Championing a culture of excellence and agility by encouraging flexibility, cross-functional capability and a proactive, result oriented mindset.
Providing expert advice on all aspects of animal management and participating as a member of relevant committees at QIMR Berghofer including the Animal Ethics Committee (AEC), Animal Scientific Sub-Committee (ASSC) as required.

About you:

You are a highly experienced Manager with formal qualifications in Animal Sciences (or equivalent) and a proven track record managing a small animal's facility within a medical research environment. You will bring extensive technical expertise in animal care, husbandry, breeding, and research techniques, along with proven leadership, budget management, and stakeholder engagement skills.

With a sound understanding of Queensland legislation governing laboratory animals, you communicate effectively in scientific and regulatory settings and demonstrate strong organisational and time management capabilities.

Does this sound like you? We would love to hear from you.

Please refer to the position description on the QIMR Berghofer Careers website for a full list of responsibilities and key selection criteria.

Remuneration: Salary range is $151,923 to $160,762 per annum plus super and generous salary packaging. This is a full-time permanent appointment.

For further information: please contact Dr Nigel Waterhouse, General Manager, Scientific Services on Nigel.Waterhouse@qimrb.edu.au

Closing Date: Sunday, 1st March 2026

To submit an application: use the APPLY button. All applicants must supply the following documents: Resume and Cover letter addressing your suitability for the role, as per the Position Description.

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process.

QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute

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