AddressThe One Basin CRC is a focused research collaboration developing policy, technical and financial solutions to support and reduce exposure to climate, water and environmental threats in the Murray-Darling Basin. The CRC includes more than 85 partners across industry, governments, research organisations and not for profits working to achieve a more productive, resilient and sustainable Murray-Darling Basin and beyond.
We are looking for a dynamic and skilled individual with expertise in research, innovation, and communication. We seek someone to effectively translate scientific findings; drive the impact of research initiatives and foster a culture of innovation across our partnership.
You will work across a diverse portfolio of research products including information, technology and business models that address industry, government, First Nations, and community challenges across the Murray-Darling Basin. You will clarify opportunities to apply research outcomes at scale to benefit the Murray-Darling Basin and similar water systems nationally and internationally.
Our work includes the delivery of the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder’s (CEWH) Knowledge Exchange, Communications and Engagement Project. One aspect of the ‘Research Impact and Innovation’ role is to lead communications of research findings as part of this CEWH project, to promote Impact and support innovation in environmental water management. This project’s aim is to address water use challenges throughout the Murray-Darling Basin through rigorous research, collaboration, and innovative problem-solving involving First Nations environmental management knowledge exchange.
This role can be located at the One Basin CRC Office in the Melbourne CBD, or one of the four Regional Hubs located in Loxton SA, Mildura VIC, Griffith NSW or Goondiwindi QLD, or a regional location within the catchment area.
The role will involve:
- Cultivate strong relationships with diverse stakeholders including First Nations project partners, researchers, funders, collaborators, and community partners.
- Foster a culture of knowledge exchange and Innovation across our partnership by promoting creativity, risk-taking, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Provide leadership and support for Research Impact and Innovation initiatives, including mentoring and training staff.
- Lead the development and implementation of impact assessment frameworks and methodologies to measure and evaluate the societal, economic, and environmental impact of research
- Stay abreast of trends, best practices, and emerging opportunities in Research Impact and Innovation, and provide strategic advice and guidance to the One Basin CRC executive.
Translate relationships across organisations, projects and people to a broader conversation and communications highlighting the positive outcomes from research.
- Cultural sensitivity with First Nations partners and contributors
- Commitment to research methodology, rigour in data collection, analysis and reporting, and beneficial outcomes for basin communities and the environment.
- Explore a range of best practice and innovative approaches to knowledge exchange, communication and engagement for impactful research programs
- Develop, with others, engaging science communication products for a range of audiences
- Lead and oversee the organisation of forums that facilitate knowledge exchange, including workshops, webinars and conferences.
- Project planning and execution
- Team and stakeholder leadership
- Budget and resource management
- Quality assurance and compliance
To be successful in this project you will have experience in and be able to demonstrate the following:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., science, engineering, social science, project management); advanced degree preferred.
- Proven experience (10+ years) in innovation/commercialisation success, project management, knowledge exchange and communications, particularly in research-intensive or academic settings.
- Demonstrated expertise in working with complex, multifaceted projects involving multiple stakeholders and interdisciplinary teams.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders across different levels and backgrounds.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
- Proficiency in project management tools and software, as well as budgeting and financial management.
- Knowledge of research methodologies, ethics, and regulatory requirements preferred.
- Strong computer competency including demonstrated experience using Microsoft Office, finance, and operational systems.
- High Level of attention to detail and excellent time management skills to prioritise and meet deadlines.
- Ability to exercise independent judgement and constructively solve problems to make effective decisions based on knowledge of policy and procedures.
Ability to exercise confidentiality and discretion.
- Willing to do some travel.
This role will contribute to the research culture that is welcoming and inclusive of First Nations peoples.
If this sounds like you, please submit a CV and application addressing the following key criteria:
- Experience in relationship building, communications, project management and commercialisation/innovation.
- Leadership experience – touching on partner engagement, marketing and communications of the project outcomes, and ability to meet timelines and reporting requirements.
- Commitment to research and Innovation.
- Strong work ethic and your understanding of the importance of this role, and the Flow-MER project to the Basin communities, environment, and industries.
