Manager, Research Funding

Make an impact at the University of Wollongong (UOW) - a purpose-driven institution ranked among the world's leading universities. Join us in a pivotal leadership role supporting research excellence and innovation across the University through strategic oversight of our centralised research funding function.

About the Role

The Manager, Research Funding provides strategic and operational leadership to UOW's newly established centralised Research Funding team within the Research Services Division. Leading a team of research funding professionals, you will drive high-quality funding support services, ensure compliance with complex funding frameworks, and deliver operational excellence across the research funding lifecycle.

This role is ideal for an experienced people leader who enjoys combining strategic thinking with hands-on operational management. You will play a key role in shaping processes, strengthening capability within the team, and partnering with stakeholders across the University to support research growth and funding success.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead, develop and mentor a team of Research Funding Coordinators and support staff, fostering a high-performing and collaborative culture.
• Provide expert advice on research funding regulations, compliance requirements and complex funding schemes.
• Oversee complex funding applications, negotiations, risk assessments and funding-related operational matters.
• Drive process improvement initiatives and implement efficient systems and procedures to enhance service delivery.
• Build strong partnerships with researchers, funding agencies and internal stakeholders to maximise research funding outcomes.

About the Team

The role sits within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Portfolio's Research Services Division, which provides integrated support across the research funding and project lifecycle. The team partners closely with faculties, researchers and professional services teams to deliver streamlined, high-quality research funding administration and support.

As part of a recently established centralised structure, you'll have the opportunity to influence how services are delivered while supporting UOW's research ambitions and future growth.

What You'll Bring

• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Significant experience in research funding management, including knowledge of national and international funding schemes and compliance frameworks.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across diverse groups.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability, with experience providing expert advice on complex operational matters.
• A track record of driving operational excellence, process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives.

Why Join UOW

• Competitive salary package including 17% superannuation.
• 35-hour full-time work week supporting greater balance and flexibility.
• Flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies.
• Generous leave entitlements including additional concession days over the Christmas-New Year period.
• Purchased leave options to provide greater flexibility throughout the year.

Role Details

• Employment Type: Fixed-term, full-time parental leave backfill position until 3 December 2027.
• Level 8/9 | $123,283 - $152,959 plus 17% superannuation.
• Location: Wollongong Campus.
• Valid Australian work rights required. Visa sponsorship is not available.
• Position description

How to Apply

Click on the 'Apply Now' button and submit your CV along with a cover letter (maximum 3 pages) outlining your skills and experience relevant to the selection criteria in the Position Description.

For further information about this position, please contact James Walsh, Director, Research Services at director-researchservices@uow.edu.au

Closing Date: Tuesday 24 November 11:55pm

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Wollongong is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where diversity is valued, respected and celebrated. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of all gender identities and sexual orientations, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and those with caring or family responsibilities.

As required by federal legislation, prospective employees are required to declare whether they have been investigated for an allegation of Gender Based Violence or determined to have engaged in conduct that constitutes Gender Based Violence during previous employment or through a legal process.

At the University of Wollongong (UOW), our people are united by a shared purpose — to create a better future through education, research, innovation and meaningful community impact.

With deep local roots and a growing global presence, UOW is proud to contribute to positive change in the communities we serve and the world beyond them. Guided by our Vision 2035 and Strategic Plan 2030, we are building a future that is innovative, inclusive and committed to societal impact — one where people, ideas and opportunity can thrive.

We are recognised for excellence in teaching and research, and for the real-world impact of our work. But what truly brings UOW to life is our people. Across every role, our staff contribute to something bigger — helping shape the future through the work they do every day.

At UOW, we are committed to fostering a culture where people feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work. Our Values in Action guide how we work, lead and make decisions — creating a workplace grounded in integrity, accountability, collaboration and excellence.

Joining UOW means becoming part of a values-led community where your work has purpose, your contribution is valued, and the impact you make can be felt locally and globally.