Senior Project Officer

About the role

The Senior Project Officer plays a key role in supporting SAHMRI’s research strategy, funding success and research governance operations.

Working closely with researchers, internal teams and external partners—including universities, SA Health and government stakeholders, you will support the development and submission of competitive research grant applications, contribute to robust research governance frameworks, and assist in the delivery of high‑quality research management services across the Institute.

This role supports the operation and strategic use of SAHMRI’s research management systems, including monitoring and reporting on research performance for senior leadership and key stakeholders, while contributing to continuous improvement projects and Research Office initiatives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting researchers in the preparation, review and submission of research grant applications, ensuring scientific quality, compliance and strategic alignment
• Advising on funding guidelines, assessment criteria, budgets and scheme objectives
• Contribute to research management strategies, policies and plans aligned with SAHMRI’s strategic priorities
• Supporting research integrity, governance and compliance activities, including human and animal ethics processes and site‑specific assessments
• Supporting the effective use of SAHMRI’s research management database (Pure), including performance monitoring, analysis and reporting
• Manage and deliver special projects and initiatives as directed by senior leadership
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external research stakeholders
• Provide executive and committee support for Research Office‑related committees
• Collaborate across SAHMRI to support the delivery of high‑quality Research Office services

About You

The successful candidate will possess the following key attributes:

• Tertiary Qualification in relevant field.
• Knowledge, experience and appreciation of health and medical research and the research sector broadly.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills together with resourcefulness and initiative to manage multiple priorities and projects, meet deadlines and anticipate future requirements in an environment characterised by competing demands.
• An understanding of obligations of researchers and organisations to good scientific practice.
• An understanding of research performance
• Experience in grant writing, editing and proposal development for a range of funding opportunities.
• Track record in stakeholder engagement within health, academic or research industries.
• Experience in system change and refinement.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to successfully communicate with a diverse range of people at all levels.
• Ability to deal sensitively with confidential information.
• Excellent written communications skills.

Special Requirements

• Some out of hours work may be required.
• DCSI Employment Screening and Police Checks may be required.
• To be considered for this position, applicants must hold relevant working rights within Australia at the time of application.

Why Join SAHMRI?

Everything we do is underpinned by our core values of excellence, innovation, courage, integrity and teamwork. We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where people are supported to do meaningful work that makes a real difference.

As a not‑for‑profit organisation, SAHMRI offers salary packaging benefits of up to $15,900, helping you maximise your take‑home pay.

For a copy of the position description, please click here.

For more information, please contact Sarah Lawson at sarah.lawson@sahmri.com

Applications close: Monday 4^th May 2026

Applications may close earlier than advertised if a suitable candidate is identified.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply