Research Operations Manager

• Play a critical role in maintaining safe ethical and compliant research environments
• Guide and develop a diverse highperforming team of technical animal services and logistics professionals
• Full time ongoing position based in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Research Operations Manager is responsible for the strategic leadership regulatory compliance operational oversight and continuous improvement of research infrastructure across Animal Services the Medical Science Precinct (MSP) Research Laboratories and MSP Purchasing and Logistics. This includes oversight of PC2 laboratories core research technologies and animal services.

What youll do:

Leadership

• Provide strategic oversight and direction for research infrastructure including laboratory and animal services.
• Contribute to long-term infrastructure planning investment decisions and capability development across a diverse set of medical research fields and applications.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on infrastructure compliance and operational risks.
• Provide oversight to the operations and management of three teams of professional staff.

Compliance and Governance

• Ensure all facilities meet regulatory and accreditation requirements;
• Oversee ethics biosecurity safety and animal welfare compliance as an active member of relevant committees;
• Acquire and administer permits for the;
  • Purchase possession and use of regulated prescription medicines and controlled poisons for use in research settings (Poisons Act 1971 Poisons Regulations 2018).
  • International and domestic import of genetically modified materials and organisms (Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 Biosecurity Act 2015 and others relevant to specific cases).
• Accommodate operational and system audits site inspections and investigations by regulatory entities both internally and externally via and federal regulators.

Operational Oversight

• Ensure the effective support of core research technologies and associated resources across research facilities.
• Lead the development and implementation of operational plans policies and systems to meet evolving needs in a set of dynamic research environments.
• Development and continual review of business continuity plans and management systems for contingency in the event of a critical failure in systems supporting research operations and/or animal welfare.

Safety and Risk Management

• Ensure a strong safety culture across all areas of operations.
• Oversee risk assessments SOPs audits facility safety inspections and incident management systems.
• Develop and maintain safe systems of work to accommodate a set of activities with potential fatality risk.
• Maintain compliance with requirements for the handling storage and disposal of hazardous substances controlled substances and gene technology materials.

Service Delivery and Support

• In consultation with key stakeholders and committees and guided by user experience/feedback:
  • Implement and review best-practice service models for shared infrastructure.
  • Develop and oversee cost recovery practices to ensure sustainable and equitable operation of our research facilities.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives across systems and processes.
• Build strong relationships with researchers academic leaders and external partners.
• Engage with suppliers industry and regulatory agencies as required.
• Support research growth through effective infrastructure service delivery.

Please see Position Description Linked below for full list of Accountabilities.

What were looking for:

• Significant experience in managing complex research infrastructure including PC2 research laboratories and animal facilities.
• Demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance including OGTR regulations laboratory safety biosecurity hazardous materials controlled substances and animal ethics.
• Proven ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary teams in complex environments.
• Experience utilising and/or managing animal colonies for research including familiarity with suitable breeding regimes tailored to the strain.
• Experience in infrastructure planning asset management and service delivery models.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability in technical and operational contexts.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills including with senior leaders regulatory bodies and external partners.
• A degree with subsequent relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.
• Class C Drivers License unrestricted and own vehicle.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at HEO 9 and will have a total remuneration package of up to $160613 comprising base salary within the range of $130242 to $137276 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• This vacancy is being advertised internally only in the first instance to current staff.
• In submitting your application you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• To apply online please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role skills capabilities and experience. You do not need to separately address the success profile.
• For further information about this position please Mark Bennett Director Research Development or.
• Please visit for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

503174 - Position Description - Research Operations

Applications close Wednesday 20 May 2026 11.55pm

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.