Head, Ethics and Integrity

Job Title

Head, Ethics and Integrity

Job Description

An excellent opportunity is available for a Head, Ethics and Integrity to join the Ethics and Integrity Department at Australia's pre-eminent biomedical research institute.

About the Position

The Head, Ethics and Integrity is a critical leadership role that safeguards the organisation's reputation, credibility, and licence to operate. This role ensures that integrity is not only a compliance requirement, but also a lived organisational value. Operating across both corporate and research domains, the role provides independent oversight of corporate integrity and research ethics and integrity frameworks, including human and animal research ethics, research integrity, conflicts of interest, and responsible data use. The Head brings coherence and consistency to these functions, ensuring clear policies, robust processes, and accessible support for staff and leaders.

The position is both strategic and practical: shaping long-term frameworks and culture, while providing responsive advice on complex ethical issues and proactively managing integrity risks. It balances the organisation's need to meet legal and regulatory obligations with the imperative to enable innovation, discovery, and in service of scientific discovery and impact.

Externally, the role engages with regulators, funders, and sector peers to ensure compliance and contribute to best practice standards. Internally, the Head acts as a visible champion of organisational values, modelling behaviours that promote transparency, accountability, and trust. In doing so, the role strengthens the culture of integrity and reinforces the organisation's standing as a leader in responsible research practice.

Selection Criteria

Essential Knowledge and Skills:

• Scientific research experience and qualification is essential.
• Deep knowledge of ethics and governance frameworks relevant to research, higher education, or biomedical sectors.
• Ability to provide independent, balanced advice in sensitive and complex situations.
• Demonstrated experience in policy development and compliance oversight.
• Proven track record in leading high-performing teams and influencing senior decision-makers.
• Strong knowledge of: Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (2018), National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2018), Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (2013)

Desirable Knowledge and Skills:

• Qualification in law, ethics, governance, or a related field (desirable), or:
• Demonstrated extensive experience in ethics, integrity, compliance, governance, or related leadership roles.

Personal Qualities:

• High integrity and commitment to confidentiality.
• Collaborative and diplomatic approach to complex issues.
• Strong leadership with a focus on staff development and empowerment.
• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills.
• Exceptional oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven ability to deliver outcomes for complex programs and projects.
• Demonstrated capacity to lead change and foster innovation.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on long-term institutional goals.

Terms of Appointment

This position is available for up to 5 years in a full time capacity. Up to 17% superannuation and very attractive salary packaging options are available.

General enquiries can be directed to Pauline Mooney -

A position description is available

here

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How to Apply

Please apply by uploading your CV, cover letter and a document addressing the key selection criteria in pdf format.

Please note: Applications will be assessed on an ongoing basis, with interviews conducted as suitable candidates are identified. WEHI reserves the right to close the recruitment process early and appoint prior to the advertised closing date.

Application Closing Date: Thursday 12 February 2026