Expression of Interest
Board Member – Population Health Research Network (PHRN) Board
Overview
The Population Health Research Network (PHRN) is Australia’s national data linkage infrastructure, providing secure and innovative access to linked health and human services data. This infrastructure supports groundbreaking health and medical research that makes a significant difference to the lives of Australians. The PHRN is internationally recognised as a leader in enabling linked data research and operates as part of the Australian Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS).
The PHRN is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals to join its Board as an independent member.
About the PHRN
Since its establishment in 2009, the PHRN has been awarded over $117 million in funding from the Australian Government, with additional co-investment to June 2026 of $172 million. With annual resources (cash and in-kind) of approximately $25 million, the PHRN enables collaboration across jurisdictions, sectors, and organisations, linking data collections securely and safely to facilitate world-class research.
As a key element of the national research infrastructure landscape, the PHRN provides the tools and expertise necessary for transformative data-driven health outcomes, improving healthcare delivery, and advancing population health initiatives.
The University of Western Australia is the host for the PHRN.
Role title: Board Member, PHRN Board.
Term: Initial term of up to two years with potential for extension. Board members are appointed by The University of Western Australia in consultation with the current PHRN Board and the Australian Government Department of Education.
The University is seeking to appoint up to two additional independent members of the PHRN Board.
The PHRN Board is an advisory committee who provide oversight and strategic direction for the PHRN.
Responsibilities of PHRN Board Members
The Board provides oversight and strategic direction for the PHRN and supports the implementation of the Strategic Plan. It also:
- Monitors compliance with the requirements of The University of Western Australia’s agreements with the Department of Education and The University of Western Australia’s agreements with PHRN Project Participants.
- Provides oversight of the development of appropriate key performance indicators and monitor performance against these indicators.
- Provides oversight of project and risk management strategies to ensure the PHRN is delivering against the investment and strategic plans.
- Provides oversight of financial management including annual budgets and business plans, and allocation of funding (approx. $5M per annum) in line with the strategic direction of the PHRN.
- Facilitates and maintains relationships with all stakeholders.
Board Meetings
The Board meets a minimum of four times a year. At least one meeting per year is held face to face.
Remuneration
The Board member fee is $10,000 per annum plus superannuation. Expenses for meeting attendance are reimbursed.
Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Attributes
We are seeking candidates who bring a combination of specific expertise and general capabilities to help guide and support the strategic direction and governance of the PHRN. Applicants must demonstrate alignment with the following requirements:
Specific Skills, Knowledge, and Experience
We are particularly seeking Board members with one or more of the following areas of expertise:
- Experience in the health and social sciences
- Knowledge or experience with clinical trials, management of electronic health records and other clinical data will be considered favourably
- Experience with the Academic Sector
- Proven understanding of research infrastructure, funding processes, and collaborative projects
- Knowledge or experience with the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) will be considered favourable
- Experience with the Government Sector
- Insight into government processes, particularly related to health and human services data
- Knowledge of government information management, policy and regulations will be considered favourably
- Marketing skills
- Experience in building brand awareness and positioning an organisation to attract funding and new revenue opportunities
General
- Be an eminent person able to take a broad, national, collaborative perspective.
- Be free from any interest and any business or other relationship which could reasonably be perceived to interfere with the Members ability to act in the best interests of the PHRN.
- Support the strategic development of the PHRN in the context of Australia’s national research infrastructure.
- Approach the role with integrity and a balanced view.
- Be able to represent the PHRN to government, stakeholders, and the national and international research community.
- Have the time and enthusiasm to devote to the role.
Additional considerations
As a national research infrastructure capability, the PHRN seeks representation from across Australia. At this time, we particularly encourage applicants from states and territories other than Western Australia.
Application Process
Please provide a short (250 word) statement describing your interest and suitability and attach a brief curriculum vitae.
Closing date: Sunday, 11 May 2025.
Please apply online via the Apply Now button.
For more information on PHRN please go to https://www.phrn.org.au/