Director, Centre for Chemistry and Drug Discovery

• Institute for Molecular Bioscience

• Join a university ranked in the world's top 50

• Australia's #1 research institute

• Based at St Lucia Campus

What started as Queensland's first university in 1909, with just three faculties and 83 students, has grown into university ranked in the world's top 50 that is renowned for being a leader in teaching and research.

When you join the University of Queensland, you're joining a community that actively strives toward creating change right across the world every day. From science and sustainability to health and humanities, our researchers are finding solutions to the world's biggest challenges. Our award-winning teachers are recognised for empowering our students to thrive as innovative thinkers and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

Even after 100 years of history and excellence, we haven't forgotten that UQ was founded by – and for – the people of Queensland. In 2022, we launched the Queensland commitment as part of our belief that education and opportunity should be available for all Queenslanders by breaking down personal, financial and geographical barriers. It's this commitment that re-emphasises that UQ is a place for everybody: no matter who you are, where you're from, or what challenges you've faced, you can pursue your ambitions at UQ.

The Centre for Chemistry and Drug Discovery (CCDD) is one of four research centres within IMB at UQ. The Centre applies cutting-edge chemistry, peptide and small-molecule drug discovery, structural biology, biotechnology and nanotechnology to improve human health and deliver economic benefits. Centre work focuses on discovering new treatments for antimicrobial resistance, cardiovascular disorders, inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer, autoimmune diseases and neurological disorders as well as new platforms to produce them and also supports green chemistry applications (including light driven chemistry). We also discover new medicines for animal health and eco-friendly insecticides to protect agriculture.  

CCDD is internationally recognised for its leadership in peptide drug discovery and medicinal chemistry, leveraging Australia's unique natural resources, including native plants and the world's largest venom collection, to inspire innovative therapeutics. The Centre has a strong record of translating discoveries into practical solutions, having contributed to the creation of over 20 companies and the development of numerous impactful products, including biodegradable bee-friendly insecticides, cane toad traps, and treatments for polycythaemia vera and psoriasis. 

CCDD's research is deeply integrated with and bolstered by IMB's other Centres, combining expertise in genetics, cell biology, and the study of both human and bacterial cells. 

We are seeking an exceptional academic leader in the domain of chemistry and drug discovery to lead our centre consisting of 10 group leaders, 40 staff and approximately 50 HDR students.

Ideally, you will bring a strong track record of academic leadership demonstrated not just by strong individual output but impressive support of those around you, building a strong and successful culture. Being natural collaborative and skilful at influencing, you will be well equipped to drive partnerships across UQ, government and industry whilst consistently working with colleagues within IMB.

Beyond demonstrated experience in strategic research leadership, you will bring at least 15 years of expert knowledge and research outcomes, highlighted by successful grants applications and revenue generation that have fuelled an international reputation in chemistry. Extensive experience with prior formal collaborations and partnerships across institutional boundaries will be critical to success in this role, as will a track record in commercialization of research.

To view detailed information on the position, including the key requirements responsibilities, please refer to the Appointment Brochure link here.

If you'd like to have a confidential discussion or would like to obtain the full information pack, please contact Lachlan Inch, Principal Advisor, Talent Acquisition via As part of the internal UQ community, we're genuinely committed to finding an exceptional leader we'll continue to work with longer-term, so we'll ensure we also support you throughout the recruitment process.

When you're ready to submit an application, we ask that you please create a profile via our careers website and upload the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover letter addressing the "About You" section

At UQ we know that our greatest strengths come from our diverse mix of colleagues, this is reflected in our ongoing commitment to creating an environment focused on equity, diversity and inclusion.  We ensure that we are always attracting, retaining and promoting colleagues who are representative of the diversity in our broader community, whether that be gender identity, LGBTQIA+, cultural and/or linguistic, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, or people with a disability. Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to  

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We'll support you with the visa sponsorship process and a relocation support package. You can find out more about life in Australia's Sunshine State here.

Applications close Sunday 12 October 2025, at 11.00pm AEST (R

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad:  from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.