Research Development Specialist (Major Initiatives)

Research Development Specialist (Major Initiatives) UNSW Canberra

Employment type: Fixed-term full-time (35 hours per week)
Duration: 2 years

Remuneration: Level 8 from $132445 leave loading 17% super
Location: UNSW Canberra ADFA Campus

About UNSW Canberra
University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Canberra has multiple locations in the Nations Capital.
UNSW Canberra distinguishes itself from other institutions by its commitment to being thoughtful practical and purposeful in all endeavours. This combined approach is integral to the universitys impact and contributes to its recognition as one of the top 20 universities globally as well as a proud member of Australias esteemed Group of Eight. Choosing a career at UNSW means embracing an environment where thriving facing challenges and engaging in meaningful work are not just encouraged but integral to the university experience. If you seek a career where you can excel and contribute meaningfully youve found the right place.

At UNSW we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

Why Your Role Matters:
This newly created role will play a central role in enabling UNSW Canberra to originate develop and secure major research funding. The position is responsible for creating the conditions under which large-scale externally funded research initiatives can be successfully conceived assembled and delivered. Working closely with senior researchers Faculty leadership the UNSW Division of Research & Enterprise and external partners the role combines strategic oversight hands-on bid development and project management to support the full lifecycle of major proposals: from early-stage concept development and partnership formation through to submission and initial post-award establishment. A key focus of the role is to strengthen the quality and competitiveness of major bids by shaping compelling narratives coordinating complex multidisciplinary teams and ensuring that proposals are strategically positioned partner aligned and delivered in a timely fashion.

Who You Are (skills and experience):

Degree in a relevant discipline and extensive experience in research management or bid development.

Strong analytical and data interpretation skills.

High-level project management skills including planning risk management and compliance.

Exceptional written communication skills with the ability to produce compelling submissions.

Excellent interpersonal negotiation and relationship-management skills.

Strong knowledge of Australian and international research funding landscapes.

Demonstrated experience coordinating large complex research proposals or competitive funding submissions such as complex research bids including ARC Centres of Excellence Laureate Fellowships Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs) Dept of Education Trailblazer submissions or similar mission-driven schemes.

Benefits and Culture:
UNSW is committed to helping staff balance work-life responsibilities by providing access to high-quality services facilities and flexible work and leave arrangements.

• Flexible working options (work from home flexible hours etc)
• Additional three days leave during December festive period
• Career development opportunities
• Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
• Flexible 17% superannuation contributions additional leave-loading paymentsand salary sacrifice
• Free gym access
• UNSW-wide strategy to focus on Healthy Body Healthy Mind Healthy Places and HealthyCulture.

You can learn more about our Benefits and Culture at Lifestyle & Benefits UNSW

Eligibility:

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this position.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Pre-Employment Checks
Aligned with UNSWs focus on cultivating a workplace defined by safety ethical conduct and strong integrity preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.
These pre-employment checks may include a combination of some of the following checks:-
National and International Criminal history checks
Entitlement to work and ID checks
Working With Children Checks
Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
Verification of relevant qualifications
Verification of relevant professional membership
Employment history and reference checks
Financial responsibility assessments/checks
Medical Checks and Assessments

Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

How to Apply:

Make each day matter with a meaningful career at UNSW. Submit your application online before Tuesday 21 July 2026 at 11:30pm including your CV and a 12-page cover letter addressing the required skills and experience outlined in the position description. In order to view the position description please ensure that you allow pop-ups for

Get in Touch:

For role-related queries please contact:
Suzanne Austin - Manager Strategic Research Engagement

For recruitment process-related queries please contact:
Holly Whale Talent Acquisition Partner

Applications cannot be accepted if sent directly to the contact listed.

Find out more about the lifestyle and benefits when working withUNSW

For further information about UNSW Canberra please visit:UNSW Canberra
For further information on living in Canberra please visit: Living in Canberra

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds those living with disabilities members of the LGBTIQ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

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