Olga Tennison Chair in Autism Research

La Trobe University invites applications for the prestigious Olga Tennison Endowed Chair in Autism Research, housed within the renowned Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre (OTARC). This is a unique opportunity to lead world-class research in autism and contribute significantly to the lives of Autistic people, their families, and carers across the lifespan.

About OTARC: Established in 2008, OTARC is Australia's leading centre dedicated to autism research. The Centre's mission is to create and translate the highest quality research that impacts the Autistic and autism communities. OTARC's work spans four key areas: Identification and Diagnosis, Supports and Practices for Daily Living, Educational and Vocational Engagement, and Health and Wellbeing. The Centre is committed to a neuroinclusive approach in all aspects of its operation, striving to foster an inclusive and innovative research culture.

The Role:

As the Olga Tennison Endowed Chair, you will be at the forefront of autism research, leading OTARC's strategic direction, and enhancing its reputation as a global leader. Your role will involve conducting distinguished and original research, fostering inclusive and participatory research practices, and driving research translation and policy development. You will also play a key role in mentoring researchers, supervising higher degree students, and developing strategic partnerships both nationally and internationally.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and advance major research projects within OTARC.
• Obtain and manage external research funding.
• Develop and maintain high-level strategic partnerships with industry, government, and community stakeholders.
• Mentor and supervise researchers and higher degree students, with a focus on neurodivergent scholars.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and innovative research culture at OTARC and La Trobe University.
• Represent OTARC and La Trobe University at national and international levels, promoting autism research and scholarship.

About You: The successful candidate will have a distinguished international reputation in autism research, demonstrated by an outstanding record of publications, significant impact in the field, and success in securing external research funding. You will possess superior strategic thinking skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive research environment. Lived experience of Autism and/or another neurodivergence and/or relevant workplace experience in a neurodiverse workplace is highly valued.

Please refer to the Position Description in the Candidate Information Booklet for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.

Benefits:

• 17% employer contributed superannuation
• On site child care facilities
• Flexible work arrangements
• Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses

How to Apply:

Closing date: By 11:55pm on 17 October

Position Enquiries: Professor Alison Lane, OTARC Centre Director at or via email at

Recruitment Enquiries: Melissa Magaton, Senior Talent Acquisition Business Partner E.

Position Description below:

OTARC Endowed Chair PD Level E.docx

Candidate Information Booklet below:

OTARC Endowed Chair_Candidate

Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents:

• Cover letter;
• An up to date resume
• Please address the essential criteria and submit this with your application

Please scroll down to apply.

We'd love to stay connected If you would like to find out more about OTARC and the School, please follow us on LinkedIn:

Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre:

School of Psychology and Public Health:

Why La Trobe? At La Trobe University, we are dedicated to transforming lives through education and research. We offer flexible working arrangements, a supportive community, and opportunities for professional growth. Join us at our beautiful Bundoora campus and be part of a university committed to diversity, inclusion, and excellence.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants
We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates.

All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.