The Opportunity:

Help Shape the Future of Drug Discovery

Monash University is searching for an exceptional leader to become the next Director of the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS), one of the world's leading pharmaceutical research institutes.

This is more than a leadership role. It's an opportunity to accelerate a globally recognised institute, backed by significant university ambition, investment and support. Alongside the Director appointment, Monash will make up to five additional strategic research and leadership appointments, creating a once-in-a-generation capability uplift across drug discovery and translational science.

The Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS) is Australia's largest and most successful pharmaceutical sciences institute, bringing together more than 250 staff and 250 PhD students at the forefront of drug discovery and development. Renowned for translating world-class science into real-world impact, MIPS combines deep scientific expertise with a highly collaborative research model that is driving a rapidly growing pipeline of discoveries, partnerships and commercial ventures. With a new $120M+ purpose-built translational drug discovery facility opening in 2027, MIPS is poised to accelerate its position as a global leader in shaping the future of medicine.

We're seeking visionary leaders and internationally recognised researchers who can inspire world-class teams, apply breakthrough science to real-world health challenges, and build the next stage in pharmaceutical innovation.

This is a rare opportunity to shape one of the most ambitious pharmaceutical research agendas at a university that is committed to generational social and technological transformation to meet the challenges of the age.

About Monash University

At Monash, work feels different. There’s a sense of belonging, from contributing to something ground breaking – a place where great things happen.

We value difference and diversity, and welcome and celebrate everyone's contributions, lived experience, and expertise. That’s why we champion an inclusive and respectful workplace culture where everyone is supported to succeed.

Some 20,000 staff work for Monash around the world. We have 95,000 students, four Australian campuses, and campuses in Malaysia and Indonesia. We also have a major presence in India and China, and a significant centre and research foundation in Italy.

In our short history, we have skyrocketed through global university rankings and established ourselves consistently among the world's best tertiary institutions. We rank in the world’s top-50 universities in rankings, including the QS World University Rankings 2026.

Together with our commitment to academic freedom, you will have access to quality research facilities, infrastructure, world-class teaching spaces, and international collaboration opportunities.

Learn more about Monash.

Today, we have the momentum to create the future we need for generations to come. Accelerate your change here.

Monash supports flexible and hybrid working arrangements. We have a range of policies in place enabling staff to combine work and personal commitments. This includes supporting parents.

How to Apply

For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact the consultants leading the search: Mazin Al Maimani, Senior Researcher on +61 3 8375 7408 or at mazin.almaimani@odgers.com or Jenny Sutton Jenny.Sutton@odgers.com.

Applications will close on Monday 5 October and should be submitted via the Odgers website www.odgers.com/96566

Your employment is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of all pre-employment and/or background checks required for the role, as determined by the University.

If you aspire to lead one of the world's leading translational research institutes in pharmaceutical sciences, or to contribute as an outstanding researcher with a world-class team, we look forward to hearing from you.

Position Description: Professor and Director, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences

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