The Kids Research Institute Australia is one of the largest and most successful medical research institutes in Australia.
With a bold blueprint that brings together community, researchers, practitioners, policy makers and funders, The Kids stands as one of the nation's leading child health research organisations. Our purpose is clear: to transform the lives of children through world‑class research, innovation and translation. The health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families is an overarching priority for the Institute, shaping the work and focus of every team.
The Kids has a longstanding track record of discovery and impact across areas including immunology, infectious diseases, brain development, mental health, and chronic diseases, helping to create healthier futures for children and families in Australia and beyond. In 2024, The Kids launched a strategy titled ‘Research Reimagined’, guiding the Institute’s focus for the ten years to 2035.
Following the announcement that Executive Director Professor Jonathan Carapetis AM will step down in 2026, we are now commencing the search for an exceptional leader to guide The Kids into the next chapter. This is a rare opportunity to influence the future of child health research and care in Australia, leading an organisation that connects discovery, clinical practice and the community. The next Executive Director will help set the agenda for the coming decade – championing bold ideas, strengthening partnerships and ensuring that research translates into meaningful benefits for children and families.
We are seeking an influential and respected leader in medical or health research, someone with proven experience at scale, a strong track record of scientific achievement, and the leadership and strategic capabilities needed to steer a large, complex, high‑performing organisation. The ideal candidate will bring the standing and credibility to represent The Kids nationally and internationally while advancing an already significant legacy.
Equally important is a leadership style grounded in collaboration, purpose and impact. The next Director will nurture and inspire research talent, build strong partnerships across academic, clinical, government and philanthropic sectors, and with the community, helping to create an environment where teams, ideas and innovation can thrive.
How to Apply
All inquiries and applications should be directed in confidence to The Kids Research Institute Australia’s search partner, Perrett Laver who will manage this process.
Written applications should include:
a full curriculum vitae, and
a vision statement in no more than four pages, outlining what you bring to the role in terms of researcher experience, institutional leadership, and stakeholder management, and your aspirations for The Kids Research Institute Australia in the coming years.
Applications should provide examples of how you would implement this vision to ensure The Kids Research Institute Australia success.
The successful candidate will be paid a competitive compensation package commensurate with the critical responsibilities of the role, consistent with medical research institutes and other like organisations in Australia.
If you wish to discuss this role further, please contact Dr Dong Qing Yang at DongQing.Yang@perrettlaver.com
Completed applications should be uploaded at https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies/ quoting reference 8192.
Closing date for applications is Sunday 18th January 2026.
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