Head of School - School of Biomedical Engineering

Head of School - School of Biomedical Engineering

Full-Time 100000 - 150000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
UNSW

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the School of Biomedical Engineering, shaping its strategic direction and enhancing research and education.
  • Company: UNSW, a globally recognised university in Australia with a focus on innovation and inclusivity.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work options, and generous parental leave.
  • Other info: Join a supportive environment that values diversity and fosters professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare and technology while leading a diverse academic community.
  • Qualifications: Distinguished academic career with significant research and teaching experience.

The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.

This Job is based in Australia. The Faculty of Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is seeking an accomplished and collaborative academic leader to take on the role of Head of School for the School of Biomedical Engineering. Reporting to the Dean, you will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership, shaping the School’s direction and driving excellence in research, education, and industry engagement within a supportive and inclusive environment.

This is a pivotal leadership opportunity to guide the future direction of a globally recognised school at the intersection of engineering, medicine, and biology. You will build on existing strengths to enhance research performance, advance excellence in teaching and student experience, deepen clinical and industry partnerships, and position the School for sustained impact in rapidly evolving areas of healthcare and technology.

To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate a distinguished career in academia featuring significant research publications, teaching excellence, and leadership roles in an academic institution.

Full time Fixed term – 5 years with an underlying continuing (permanent) Professorial appointment Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

Why Your Role Matters

As Head of School, you will shape the future of biomedical engineering at UNSW by providing strategic, academic, and operational leadership. You will foster an inclusive and high-performing culture, strengthen research and teaching excellence, and build partnerships that enhance impact.

  • Leadership: Guide and support a diverse academic community, setting a clear vision and fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
  • Strategy & Planning: Lead the development and implementation of the School’s strategic and operational plans, ensuring alignment with Faculty and University priorities.
  • Research: Strengthen research performance, funding, and global reputation, with a focus on translation and impact.
  • Education: Enhance student experience and outcomes across undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
  • Academic Development: Grow capability in research, education, and external engagement, supporting staff development, mentoring, and succession.
  • Engagement: Build and strengthen relationships with industry, healthcare providers, government, and the broader community.
  • Operations & Resources: Oversee financial, staffing, and infrastructure resources to ensure sustainable growth and effective delivery of the School’s objectives.

Pre-Employment Checks

Aligned with UNSW’s focus on cultivating a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

  • National and International Criminal history checks
  • Entitlement to work and ID checks
  • Working With Children Checks
  • Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
  • Verification of relevant qualifications
  • Verification of relevant professional membership
  • Employment history and reference checks
  • Financial responsibility assessments/checks
  • Medical Checks and Assessments

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options, including working from home, for eligible staff. UNSW provides 26 weeks of fully paid maternity or primary carers leave upon commencement of employment (subject to eligibility). UNSW is committed to enhancing the experience of ECAs by providing a supportive and collegial work environment and a dedicated framework to deliver support services to assist their research, teaching, and career development. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Head of School - School of Biomedical Engineering employer: UNSW

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment in the heart of Sydney. As the Head of School for Biomedical Engineering, you will lead a prestigious academic community, with access to extensive resources and support for research and teaching excellence. UNSW prioritises employee growth through mentoring, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to diversity, ensuring that all staff can thrive in their careers while making a meaningful impact in healthcare and technology.

UNSW

Contact Details:

UNSW Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of School - School of Biomedical Engineering

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at UNSW, especially in the School of Biomedical Engineering. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by diving deep into UNSW's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in what we do.

Tip Number 3

Practice your leadership pitch! We want to hear how you plan to foster an inclusive culture and drive excellence. Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of School - School of Biomedical Engineering

Strategic Leadership
Academic Leadership
Research Excellence
Teaching Excellence
Operational Management
Industry Engagement
Partnership Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of School role. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with UNSW's vision for the School of Biomedical Engineering.

Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t hold back on sharing your distinguished career in academia! Include significant research publications, teaching excellence, and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see what makes you stand out!

Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your written application. We’re looking for someone who can foster an inclusive culture, so share your thoughts on collaboration and engagement in your previous roles.

Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!

How to prepare for a job interview at UNSW

Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, dive deep into the School of Biomedical Engineering's current projects and research. Familiarise yourself with their strategic goals and how your experience aligns with their vision. This shows you’re not just interested in the role but are genuinely invested in the school's future.

Showcase Your Leadership Style

Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how you've fostered collaboration and high performance in previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to build inclusive teams and drive academic excellence, as this is crucial for the Head of School position.

Engage with Their Mission

Understand UNSW’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to share how you’ve contributed to creating supportive environments in your past roles. This will resonate well with the interviewers and demonstrate your alignment with their values.

Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the School. Inquire about their plans for enhancing industry partnerships or advancing research funding. This not only shows your interest but also positions you as a forward-thinking leader.