Board Chair opportunity: Lead Microscopy Australia into the Future 

Microscopy Australia is searching for a dynamic and visionary individual to serve as the Independent Chair of its Board. This is an exciting opportunity to lead an organisation dedicated to shaping the future of research and innovation in Australia. 

For over 15 years, Microscopy Australia, as an unincorporated joint venture, has been at the forefront of Australia’s research infrastructure, providing open access to advanced microscopy platforms and expertise across a network of university-based facilities.  

Funded by the Commonwealth Government, state governments, and institutional partners, Microscopy Australia has a strong track record of effectively delivering critical microscopy and microanalysis infrastructure and expertise in strategic locations around the country to enable high-impact research and innovation. 

Microscopy Australia is seeking an experienced Chair who will play a pivotal role in guiding the Board to set strategic objectives, ensure effective governance, and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.  

An ideal candidate would offer the following: 

• Proven experience serving on boards and in executive leadership roles, ideally with a background in technology-based industry and high-tech innovation. 

• A strong understanding of governance principles and a commitment to collaborative and ethical leadership. 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective engagement with diverse stakeholders and a stimulating boardroom environment. 

• Strategic vision and the ability to navigate complex challenges with resilience and innovation. 

• Experience using advanced research analytical approaches (such as electron microscopy) would be advantageous. 

This is a unique opportunity to steer Microscopy Australia’s strategic direction, building on 15 years of significant achievements, working with an engaged team of diligent Board members and dedicated staff to further strengthen Microscopy Australia’s impact. 

If you are passionate about leading a Board dedicated to supporting Australian research and innovation, we encourage you to apply.  

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Application Process  

Expressions of Interest are invited from candidates who believe they are highly qualified to be the next Chair of the Microscopy Australia Board.  To facilitate this process, please provide a short Statement of Suitability (max. 2 pages) describing your interests and suitability against the skills and attributes as outlined in the Role Responsibilities of the Position Description, and a brief curriculum vitae.  

Microscopy Australia will accept Expressions of Interest for the Chair position up until Wednesday 5 February 2025. If you would like to be considered, please send your Statement of Suitability and Resume to admin@micro.org.au

Microscopy Australia will review the suitability of all applicants based on expressions of interest responding to the needs and objectives of the organisation, followed by formally meeting with short-listed candidates. It is anticipated that the successful applicant will be notified by April 2025. After acceptance of an offer, it is hoped that the newly appointed independent Board Chair will attend the next scheduled Board meeting, in late June 2025.  

Would you like to discuss this role further? For more information, you are welcome to contact Prof. Simon Ringer, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Infrastructure), at The University of Sydney, simon.ringer@sydney.edu.au; or Dr Lisa Yen, Microscopy Australia’s CEO, lisa.yen@micro.org.au or by phone 0409 538 214. Confidential enquiries can be directed to the attention of Dr Greg Smith, the current Board Chair, to admin@micro.org.au