Research Development Lead

Cooperative Trials Group for Neuro-Oncology

Melbourne VIC (Hybrid)

Clinical/Medical Research (Healthcare and Medical)

Full time

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Join COGNO and help shape the future of brain cancer research.

COGNO (Cooperative Trials Group for Neuro-Oncology) is a national leader in neuro-oncology clinical trials, bringing together a multidisciplinary network of clinicians, researchers and consumers committed to improving outcomes for people affected by brain tumours.

We are seeking an experienced and collaborative Research Development Lead to provide leadership across COGNO's clinical research portfolio and research development activities. This role will play a key part in advancing innovative investigator-led clinical trials, strengthening strategic partnerships and driving the development of a sustainable pipeline of high-quality research initiatives.

Working closely with COGNO leadership, researchers, clinicians and national and international collaborators, you will lead activities spanning research strategy, trial and protocol development, funding initiatives, portfolio oversight and stakeholder engagement.

About the role

Key responsibilities include:

Lead the strategic direction, planning and management of COGNO's research and development program, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives, innovation priorities and long-term growth strategies.

Direct the development, implementation and expansion of COGNO's clinical research and clinical trial pipeline, including oversight of new research initiatives, concept development and protocol advancement.

Manage the identification, evaluation and acquisition of funding opportunities, including government, industry and collaborative research grants, to support research innovation and organisational sustainability.

Lead the preparation and coordination of competitive grant applications, strategic research proposals and partnership initiatives to enhance research capability and funding outcomes.

Establish, develop and maintain strategic partnerships and collaborative relationships across research, clinical, academic, government and industry sectors to strengthen organisational research and development objectives.

Oversee the performance, progress and strategic direction of the research portfolio, including monitoring operational outcomes, reporting requirements, key deliverables and continuous improvement initiatives.

Lead the development and implementation of research management systems, operational frameworks, governance processes and standard operating procedures to support research quality, compliance, efficiency and scalability.

Manage research development resources, operational budgets and expenditure to ensure effective allocation of funding and alignment with organisational priorities and approved financial plans.

Provide leadership and high-level advice to executive management, committees and stakeholders regarding research strategy, innovation priorities, operational planning, risk management and organisational development opportunities.

Drive organisational research capability, innovation and sustainable growth through effective leadership, stakeholder engagement and continuous improvement of research and development activities.

About you

You are a proactive and strategic research professional with experience in clinical trials, research development or research program leadership. You thrive in collaborative environments and enjoy translating ideas into impactful research outcomes.

You will bring:

Relevant tertiary qualifications in health, life sciences, clinical research or related fields

Experience in research development, clinical trial programs or complex research initiatives

Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills

Experience developing funding applications and managing competing priorities

Excellent communication and relationship-building capabilities

Knowledge of clinical research, governance and regulatory environments

Why join us?

Contribute to nationally significant brain cancer research

Help shape and grow a leading clinical research portfolio

Flexible work arrangements and part-time opportunity

Maximise your pay with salary packaging benefits.

Work with leading researchers and collaborators across Australia and internationally

Join a passionate and purpose-driven team making a meaningful difference

To ask specific questions about the role please contact Dr Vino Pillay, (Please do not send your application to this email address).

NOTE: Never make payment to any employer, person, company, contractor or agency to get hired for a Job.

Executive Officer at vino.pillay@cogno.org