• Based in IPAS and the College of Science at the City East
• Full-time (1.0 FTE), 18 months fixed term contract
• Salary range: $114,151 - $128,065 per annum plus 17% superannuation

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive. 

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters 

Working with a high degree of autonomy, the Project Manager will provide specialised project management support to research teams within the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS), partnering closely with researchers to deliver industry, government and defence-funded research projects. The role will support project initiation, planning, recruitment, reporting, risk management, scheduling and milestone tracking to ensure projects are delivered effectively and in accordance with sponsor requirements. The position will also coordinate grant applications, sponsor reporting, contracts, project documentation and compliance activities, while acting as a key communication link between research teams, clients and external stakeholders to facilitate clear, timely and effective project delivery.

The Project Manager will lead the development and implementation of project masterplans, schedules and monitoring systems to support effective resource planning, milestone management and on-time, on-budget delivery. The role will provide project management, financial monitoring and reporting support, including budget tracking, business analysis and recommendations to inform decision-making, while identifying and escalating risks where required. Working closely with industry, defence, government partners and University stakeholders, including Innovation & Commercialisation Services (ICS), Colleges and Schools, the position will build strategic relationships, support business development opportunities, drive continuous improvement initiatives and promote research activities through stakeholder engagement and communication activities.

Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description to discover more about this opportunity.  

The team

The Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) fosters excellence in research in physics, materials science, chemistry, biology and medicine. IPAS works to create new tools that will change the questions scientists can ask, stimulate the creation of new industries and improve productivity in existing industry, as well as create a new profession of transdisciplinary problem solvers. IPAS has at its core the drive to translate its research into new products to improve society; it is thus working closely with over 50 companies to solve their outstanding challenges as well as to apply breakthrough research. 

While the role reports to the Institute Manager, Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) in the Research and Innovation Portfolio, the role will work within the College of Science, in the School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences. You will join a close-knit, collaborative team with a strong learning culture and a practical, problem-solving approach. This is a role for someone who wants to make a real impact, be deeply embedded in a successful research environment, and help shape how complex projects are delivered.

Visit the AU website to learn more about The Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS)

Our people  

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys variety and meeting new people. You will experience a range of tasks and interactions, keeping your workday interesting and engaging. 

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience: 

• Demonstrated ability to scope, plan and deliver complex projects, including effective client and stakeholder management.
• Proven capability to manage competing priorities, timeframes and workloads to meet deadlines and achieve results.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with experience influencing outcomes and removing barriers across internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience managing significant budgets and day-to-day operations with a high degree of autonomy, initiative and sound judgement.
• High-level written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of executive-level reports, committee papers and financial information, with an understanding of (or exposure to) the higher education environment desirable.

 Our commitment to inclusion and diversity 

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

Launch your future with Adelaide University now

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload: 

• your current CV 
• a cover letter explaining your skills and experience as they relate to the role

Submit your application by 11:55pm Sunday 14 June 2026

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 492741):

Jessica De Lorenzo
Team Lead, Talent Acquisitions
+61 8 8302 1700| careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au  

Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment. 

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