About the position

The Scientific Education Program Leader/Senior Scientific Education Program Leader is responsible for coordinating, delivering and growing the student education and research offerings at WEHI. Overseeing and leading the Scientific Education Office, the role combines hands-on academic delivery, program leadership and institutional governance, requiring judgement, prioritisation, and independent decision-making in a student-facing environment.

The Scientific Education Office delivers a comprehensive range of student programs and experiences and forms part of the University of Melbourne Department of Medical Biology, supporting Honours, Masters and PhD programs at WEHI. The role has oversight for existing WEHI programs and degrees while developing new academic content, scientific coursework and degrees and curating external academic offerings to optimally support our students.

The role fosters relationships with both internal and external stakeholders for the development of course content, such as internal experts in scientific areas under development and those at neighbouring institutions and our partner universities overseas as well as partnering with colleagues across the Institute to provide holistic support for our students.

The role is suitable for someone with expertise in delivering academic programs, developing new programs and is actively involved in and passionate about teaching while continuously seeking out and applying global best practice standards.

Selection Criteria

Personal qualities

• Passion for scientific education and a demonstrated interest in emerging technologies and scientific breakthroughs.

• Self-motivated, with a proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities concurrently.

• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of audiences.

• Demonstrated confidentiality, discretion, sound judgement and strong attention to detail.

• Consistently shows initiative, with the ability to adapt quickly and respond positively to changing priorities and environments.

Knowledge and skills

Level B:

• PhD in Science is required, with preferably a postgraduate qualification in Education or extensive operational experience in postgraduate higher education.

• Sound knowledge of University of Melbourne systems, including LMS, TES and Student One, is desirable

• Demonstrated knowledge of pedagogical approaches and adult learning principles, and the ability to apply these within established teaching and assessment frameworks.

• Ability to work independently within a defined education or administrative area, using sound judgment and adapting established methods to meet operational requirements.

• Capacity to manage routine issues, maintain accurate records, and contribute to the delivery and improvement of student and program services.

In addition to the above, Level C:

• Demonstrated depth and breadth of scientific and educational expertise, with evidence of independent professional contribution and growing standing in the field.

• High-level judgment in applying and refining pedagogical approaches, including the ability to shape teaching and assessment practice based on evidence, feedback and educational trends.

• Capability to lead substantial components of education delivery, program development or academic coordination with minimal supervision.

• Ability to supervise, mentor or guide staff and students, and to influence team capability and performance.

• Capacity to contribute to strategic educational planning, introduce improvements to systems or processes, and influence outcomes across the broader institute.

• Advanced knowledge of the higher education environment, including the ability to manage complexity, anticipate risks, and contribute to broader policy, compliance and stakeholder engagement.

Terms of appointment

This position is an ongoing role in a full time capacity. Salary is Research Employee Level B ($121,124 - $143,826) or Level C ($148,369 - $171,076) commensurate with experience. Very attractive salary packaging options are available for general living expenses, meal entertainment, novated leasing and more. 12% superannuation payable, plus up to a further 5% after the first 6 months of service via our matching superannuation scheme.

General enquiries can be directed to recruitment@wehi.edu.au.

A position description is available here.

How to apply

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

Application closing date: 26 June 2026