We are looking for a collaborative, innovative researcher to join the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute as a Laboratory Head to expand the institute’s capabilities in biomedical data science. This includes synergising with our existing groups (e.g. Systems Genomics), bioinformatics core team, and international partnerships with the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford.
The successful applicant will develop and lead their own research team in Melbourne, Australia, supported by substantial start‑up funding, mentoring, and institutional backing to support long‑term success.
Scientists with skills and expertise that will strengthen the Institute’s diverse, inclusive, and collegial research environment are specifically encouraged to apply.
We welcome applications from candidates at different career stages who can demonstrate research leadership potential. We particularly encourage applications from women and individuals from under‑represented backgrounds in STEM.
This is a unique opportunity to carry out independent, impactful, and translational research in cardiometabolic diseases.
Key duties
In this role you will be expected to:
- Write grant proposals and acquire funding from external agencies with institutional support and collaboration.
- Prepare research papers and manuscripts for publication and share findings through presentations at conferences and workshops; write project reports, articles, and other documents.
- Recruit, resource and lead a research team in a supportive and inclusive environment to deliver a program of research which meets international standards.
- Recruit and supervise postgraduate students (Master and PhD level) with a strong focus on mentoring and professional development, supporting their successful completion of their studies.
- Engage in national and international research collaborations that foster partnership, knowledge-sharing and diversity of perspectives which further the Baker Institute’s mission (e.g. Baker/Cambridge and the Baker/Oxford university partnerships).
- Plan and coordinate the conduct of experiments; plan the processing and analysis of research data obtained; facilitate regular, inclusive team meetings related to the progress of the project(s).
- Coordinate research activities with other research bodies, universities, educational, and research functions; identify and explore a range of funding opportunities, recommend potential sources of financial support; and assist in the preparation of proposals for new funding.
- Engage in commercialisation opportunities where appropriate and aligned with research goals.
- Develop and oversee project/lab budgets, expense approvals and effectively manage budgets, grants and non-financial resources in a transparent and responsible manner and perform other administrative functions connected with your lab.
- Establish and maintain access to very large datasets (e.g. UK Biobank and others) use by Baker Institute researchers.
- Train and supervise collaborators and their staff in bioinformatic applications, supporting capability- building and knowledge transfer where needed.
- Engage in collaborations within the Baker Institute, based on your expertise, interests and strengths.
- Support Institute investigators in performing collaborative bioinformatic analyses through a shared-service and team based approach, including in a part time role as head of the Institute’s bioinformatic facility service.
Skills and Experience
- Relevant PhD with experience in research leadership appropriate to your career stage.
- Strong publication record and/or emerging research impact through peer‑reviewed journals and conferences.
- Demonstrated success, or clear potential, in securing competitive research funding.
- An international research profile commensurate with opportunity, experience and career trajectory.
- Experience working collaboratively across disciplines and institutions.
- A people‑focused approach, with experience mentoring and developing researchers, students and research staff.
- Experience in the leadership and management of research laboratories and programs.
Research excellence may be demonstrated in different ways. If you meet most — but not all — of the above criteria, we encourage you to apply.
Benefits
- Competitive remuneration and start‑up support, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Opportunities for academic appointments with partner universities (University of Melbourne, Monash University or La Trobe University).
- Generous salary packaging options of up to $18,550 per annum, allowing you to maximise your take-home pay through tax-effective benefits.
- Access to professional development and career growth, including training, leadership development and exposure to leading research and clinical teams.
- Flexible and family‑friendly working arrangements.
- Free on‑site gym membership and access to other health and wellbeing programs.
- A collaborative, purpose-driven environment focused on improving health outcomes, with strong emphasis on wellbeing, inclusion and psychological safety.
Equity and Inclusion
The Baker Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages applications from women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
We value diversity, inclusivity, and gender equity and actively promote family‑friendly practices.
We are proud recipients of an Athena SWAN Bronze Award from Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE).
We’d love to hear from you
Applications should be made using the link belwo, and include:
- A current CV.
- A brief research statement (approx. 2 pages) outlining your vision and leadership approach.
- Contact details for three professional referees.
Interviews expected to be conducted in June/July 2026.
To apply, you can follow the link below. We look forward to receiving your application.
Applications close 19 May 2026.
Please note: offers of employment are subject to satisfactory background checks and the successful candidate will be required to undertake a police check prior to commencement in the position.
Questions about the position should be addressed to Professor Michael Inouye (minouye@baker.edu.au).