Director, Research School of Social Sciences

Director, Research School of Social Sciences (RSSS)

Classification: Academic Level E
Terms: Full Time, Fixed Term 5 years
Application closing date: 11:55PM AEST on Sunday 1 November 2026

The Australian National University (ANU) is seeking to appoint an outstanding Director of the Research School of Social Sciences (RSSS).

The Research School of Social Sciences (RSSS) includes five disciplinary Schools of Demography, History, Philosophy, Politics and International Relations, and Sociology, as well as three main centres, all of which have a multidisciplinary quality that encourages collaboration among social scientists across disciplinary boundaries. These include the Centre for Indigenous Policy Research, Centre for Arab & Islamic Studies, and POLIS: The Centre for Social Policy Research.

RSSS is Australia’s pre-eminent institution for theoretical and empirical research in the social sciences, with an international reputation for exceptional research and training. It contributes to public debates in Australia and internationally across the social science spectrum.

Reporting to the Dean of the ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, the Director provides strategic leadership to the Research School of Social Sciences, fostering excellence in research, education, engagement and policy development. The Director will lead the School through its next phase of evolution, invigorating RSSS and promoting a culture of innovation, dynamic change and growth, bringing in fresh ideas to support collaboration and academic excellence while building strong engagement across the College, University and broader community. The role also serves as an important ambassador for RSSS, enhancing its reputation and profile nationally and internationally, cultivating partnerships and attracting outstanding scholars, students and supporters.

The successful candidate will be an internationally recognised academic with a distinguished record of academic achievement in a relevant discipline and a strong understanding of contemporary opportunities and challenges in the social sciences. They will bring a demonstrated capacity to develop and implement a compelling strategic vision, lead large-scale research and education initiatives, and drive innovation in teaching and learning. Exceptional leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills will be essential, together with the ability to foster a collegial, inclusive and high-performing culture. 

For further information regarding this appointment or to request a candidate information booklet, please contact Belinda Cartwright, Executive Search Business Partner, ANU Executive Search at executivesearch@anu.edu.au.

Please note applications close at 11:55PM AEST on Sunday, 1 November 2026

Application information:

To lodge an application for this role please upload the following documents:

• A Candidate Statement of no more than two (2) pages outlining the basis for your interest in the role and your suitability for the position; and
• A current curriculum vitae (CV) with three (3) referees included. Referee reports may be sought at a later stage of the process and we will not contact your referees without your express permission.

ANU values diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to those of all backgrounds and identities. For more information about staff equity at ANU, visit https://services.anu.edu.au/human-resources/respect-inclusion

Please note: The preferred candidate will be required to complete mandatory pre-employment declarations and background checks relevant to the role they have applied for, in accordance with the Background Checking Procedure and the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence.