Program Manager, Developmental Science of Mental Health

The Opportunity

Exciting opportunity for a Program Manager to drive strategy and support daily operations in a dynamic, innovative research team.

This is a new role and opportunity for a talented Program Manager to help advance research that matters. You will help drive strategic outcomes and manage the day-to-day operations of our growing research team.

The Developmental Science of Mental Health Team is an innovative multidisciplinary research group that addresses how early, digital, and daily experiences shape future mental health. We address the developmental pathways that shape young people's future prospects in order to identify key mechanisms for intervention. Our team is uniquely situated at the intersection of quantitative methods, new technologies, developmental psychology, and prevention science—and we work with local, national, and international teams and communities to advance rigorous science-based solutions.

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

Support the Team Head to identify and pursue new opportunities for research collaborations and funding in Australia and globally.

Provide support and leadership with planning and implementation of strategic initiatives.

Manage and oversee all aspects of project planning, development and establishment for a range of research projects,

Develop and maintain strong working relationships with communities, service providers, colleagues, and research project staff.

Located within Perth Children's Hospital, this position will be offered for a period of 2 years, with the possibility of extension. This role will be offered on a part-time or full-time basis, from 0.4 to 1.0 FTE.

About You

• To be successful in this role, you will have a tertiary qualification in a relevant science, health related or business management field, and possess the following:
• Relevant experience in an administrative, project management, business capacity, funding, and/or research role.
• Ability to simultaneously coordinate and deliver multiple projects/strategic opportunities, which may be complex and interconnected.
• Superior people skills with the ability to develop strong internal and external relationships.
• Proven capacity to manage grant applications and/ or budgets in complex funding environments.
• Ability to lead and work collaboratively as part of a high-performing team in a changing environment.

At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit, support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we:

• Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.
• Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.
• Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.
• Partner with communities to strength cultural awareness and belonging.
• Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.
• We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.

Alongside our inclusive culture, you'll enjoy:

• Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.
• Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.
• Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.
• Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.
• Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.

How to apply

If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application.

Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the "About You" section.

Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contact

For more information about the role please contact: Kathryn Modecki, Head, Developmental Science of Mental Health.

Contact Email: 

Closing Date: 23 September We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.