Centre Manager- Advanced Defence Research in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (CADR-RAS)
HEO9 ($128,217- $137,173) per annum plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation
Fixed Term Contract until 30th June 2026.
Be at the Forefront of Defence Innovation — Centre Manager, Advanced Defence Research (Robotics & Autonomous Systems)
The Centre for Advanced Defence Research in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (CADR-RAS) is a cutting-edge collaboration between the University of Adelaide (UoA) and the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG). It was established in June 2021 and is funded to operate until at least June 2026.
At its core, CADR-RAS serves as a national hub for research and development in robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) — areas that are rapidly transforming the future of defence and security operations.
Robotics and autonomous systems are reshaping modern defence — from logistics and surveillance to combat and disaster response. CADR-RAS ensures that Australia is not just keeping pace, but actively leading innovation in this space.
By integrating advanced research with defence priorities, CADR-RAS helps ensure national security outcomes that are smarter, safer, and strategically aligned.
https://www.adelaide.edu.au/defence-security/institutes-centres/cadr-ras
CADR-RAS has a few key missions:
- Strengthen defence capability through the development and application of robotics and AI in autonomous systems.
- Connect the best minds in academia, defence, and industry — creating a powerful ecosystem for innovation.
- Facilitate research contracts and governance frameworks that enable efficient, secure, and collaborative research delivery.
- Act as a knowledge bridge between foundational research and defence implementation, supporting projects with both strategic direction and technical rigour.
Key Partners:
- University of Adelaide (UoA) – a research-intensive institution, providing academic leadership and infrastructure.
- DSTG (Defence Science and Technology Group) – the Australian Government’s lead agency for science and technology in defence.
- Australian Universities - CADR-RAS has research projects across eleven Australian Universities.
- Defence, Space & Cyber industry stakeholders – ensuring research outcomes are aligned with real-world needs.
- Autonomy-related ADF groups, such as RICO (RAS Implementation Coordination Office) – providing operational insights and implementation pathways.
What Kind of Work Does CADR-RAS Support?
CADR-RAS supports multidisciplinary research projects across the design, development, testing, and deployment of autonomous systems. This might include:
- Autonomous vehicles and drones (aerial, ground, underwater)
- Human-machine teaming
- Machine learning and adaptive AI
- Sensor fusion and perception systems
- Ethical and trusted autonomy frameworks
- Robotics hardware and control systems
Projects are typically collaborative and mission-driven, designed to solve specific, high-priority challenges within Australia's defence context.
About the Role
The Centre Manager will implement the strategic direction of the Centre through their contribution to oversee a Program of Activities, as agreed by the Steering Committee. They will work collaboratively with all stakeholders coordinating and managing its research activities including, financial management, project management, whilst ensuring compliance with the University’s obligations under the CADR-RAS Agreement. Day to day management will be through the DSI with the Centre Manager operating under broad direction with a degree of autonomy.
In consultation with the Technical Committee, the Centre Manager will actively engage with the broader research community, with a view to developing collaborative research projects to find innovative solutions to defence research problems consistent with the Centre’s vision and mission.
To be successful you will need:
- Demonstrated experience in the delivery of high-level executive support functions.
- Demonstrated experience in the provision of high-quality management and advisory services, including the preparation of risk, progress, and financial reports and/or schedules.
- Demonstrated experience in the management and delivery of programs to a strict deadline.
- Research experience.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in an autonomous capacity and in a team environment under broad direction.
- Demonstrated commitment to a customer service culture and significant experience in relationship management.
- Demonstrated ability to bring together a diverse community of researchers, defence and industry professionals.
- Excellent high level written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite Products and/or other IT systems complementary to the role.
- This position is only open to Australian Citizens capable of obtaining a Defence Security Clearance.
The Path to Adelaide University
We are on an exciting path to Adelaide University as we prepare to open our doors in January 2026. Adelaide University will combine the strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, and we are dedicated to creating an accessible and future-focused educational powerhouse that fosters economic and social wellbeing through ground-breaking research and innovative teaching. You can learn more about Adelaide University HERE and more information will be provided throughout the recruitment process.
Enjoy an outstanding career environment
We offer a uniquely rewarding workplace. The size, breadth and quality of our education and research programs - including significant industry, government and community collaborations - offers you vast scope and opportunity for a long, fulfilling career.
It also enables us to attract high-calibre people in all facets of our operations, ensuring you will be surrounded by talented colleagues, many world-leading. Our work's cutting-edge nature - not just in your own area, but across virtually the full spectrum of human endeavour provides a constant source of inspiration.
Our culture is one that welcomes all and embraces diversity consistent with our Staff Values and Behaviour Framework and our Values of integrity, respect, collegiality, excellence and discovery. We firmly believe that our people are our most valuable asset, so we work to grow and diversify the skills, knowledge and capability of all our staff.
We embrace flexibility as a key principle to allow our people to manage the changing demands of work, personal and family life. Flexible working arrangements are on offer for all roles at the University.
In addition, we offer a wide range of attractive staff benefits. These include: salary packaging; flexible work arrangements; high-quality professional development programs and activities; and an on-campus health clinic, gym and other fitness facilities.
Learn more at: adelaide.edu.au/jobs
Your division's broader role
The Division of Research and Innovation leads the University's research strategic planning. It manages research, partnerships, prioritises investment in strategic initiatives, and responds to changes in the external environment.
Learn more at: adelaide.edu.au/research/about-us/
If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.
Applications close 11.55pm (ACST) Sunday 4th May
***The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. ***
For further information
For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact:
Gregory Davis
Defence and Security Institute Manager
Division of Research and Innovation
E: gregory.davis@adelaide.edu.au
You'll find a full position description below: (If no links appear, try viewing on another device)
The University of Adelaide is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who meet the requirements of this position are strongly encouraged to apply.
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