Chief Scientific Research Officer (CSRO)

Chief Scientific Research Officer (CSRO)

Lead bold science. Deliver global impact.

The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) is seeking a visionary research leader to join its executive team as Chief Scientific Research Officer (CSRO). This senior leadership position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of cancer research at an Institute globally recognised for its focus on Translational Precision Immuno-Oncology (TPI-O), discovery-led innovation, and patient-centred impact.

ONJCRI is embedded within a major cancer centre and public hospital, providing privileged proximity to clinicians, patients, and biological samples. The CSRO will guide ONJCRI’s scientific direction, lead a high-performing research culture, and strengthen partnerships across academia, healthcare, and industry.

About the Role

As CSRO, you will:

• Implement and lead ONJCRI’s scientific strategy across discovery and translational domains
• Foster a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative research culture
• Align scientific effort with public health priorities and unmet clinical needs
• Oversee strategic initiatives in commercialisation, innovation and impact
• Mentor emerging research leaders and champion interdisciplinary excellence
• Strengthen ONJCRI’s national and international research partnerships

You will be a key member of the executive team, helping ensure the Institute’s research delivers on its strategic impact goals: effectiveness, tolerability, and accessibility of cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.

About You

You are an internationally recognised cancer researcher with a strong track record of scientific leadership, successful collaboration, and impact. You bring a deep understanding of the cancer research ecosystem and a passion for translating discoveries into outcomes that change lives. You are motivated by the opportunity to guide and inspire others while delivering high-value science that meets real-world needs.

We welcome candidates who are currently leading active research programs, as well as those seeking a leadership, role with or without an independent research portfolio.

Why Join ONJCRI?

ONJCRI is a values-driven institute committed to patient impact, equity, and innovation. Our model integrates discovery research with clinical practice, enabling rapid translation of discoveries into diagnostics and therapies. Our five-year Impact Strategy (2025–2029) sets out a bold vision for cancer research that is defined by excellence, commercialisation, global reach and public good.

We are located in (Heidelberg) Melbourne — one of the world’s most liveable cities — and co-located with a major hospital and cancer service. Australia offers a strong environment for research funding, global collaboration, and translational infrastructure, making this a rare opportunity to lead high-impact science with international relevance and deep clinical connectivity.

Location: Melbourne, Australia (relocation support available)
Appointment: Fractional appointment (FTE negotiable), with flexibility for research leadership. Laboratory relocation is optional and supported for those who wish to continue active research within ONJCRI.

To Apply

Expressions of interest should be submitted via the ONJCRI website: www.onjcri.org.au/join-our-team/csro

For confidential enquiries, please contact: ceo@onjcri.org.au