Principal, Neurosciences

About Us
Minderoo Foundation takes on tough, persistent issues with the potential to drive massive change. We incubate ideas, advocate for systems change and accelerate impact. We push the limits of what is believed possible.

Minderoo Foundation is proudly Australian, independent, forward thinking and seeks effective, scalable solutions. Through bold, collaborative and selfless action, we seek to dismantle the systems that entrench inequality and advocate for a fairer future.

Minderoo's Communities Focus Area is dedicated to creating a future where all children reach their full potential in thriving communities. The 2030 Strategy centres efforts around the holistic needs of children, and their families and caregivers. Bodies of work have been developed to ensure society is attuned to these needs and the importance of supporting children, young people and their families through vibrant and connected communities. An additional workstream focused on empowering families and communities to attain economic dignity is under consideration. The Communities Focus Area will be strengthening its place-based, First Nations and partnerships engagement approach to these issues.

About the Opportunity
This is a newly created role, which offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to our next generation. By bringing your passion, commitment and expertise. Reporting to the Director, Early Years. We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) skilled and experienced in child and adolescent neurosciences. Providing expert guidance and insights on issues related to the neurodevelopmental health and well-being of children and adolescents.

The primary focus of the role will involve (but not limited to):
• Utilising your expertise to strengthen early childhood development systems, including supporting internal teams and external stakeholder groups on topics related to child neurodevelopment.
• Providing expert analysis, and supporting translation of scientific insights into practice.
• Initiate collaborative professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders and partners including children’s service providers, academic institutions and civil society actors.
• Support advocacy efforts aimed at increasing prioritisation of the early years by key actors. • Engage with policymakers, community leaders, and the public to raise awareness of the importance of the early years and mobilise support for early childhood initiatives.

About You
The successful candidate will have strong analytical skills and demonstrate a collaborative approach internally and externally, building synergistic stakeholder relationships.

• Proven and successful expertise in child and adolescent neurodevelopment. Including working with children, adolescents and their families in education, research or clinical settings.
• Demonstrated experience developing programs, policies and initiatives that address the diverse needs of young people.
• Exceptional interpersonal, report/business case writing and verbal communication skills including the ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• High level of commitment and proven ability to problem-solve complex social, economic and or environmental problems and influence change.
• Strong project or program management experience.
• Technical writing and research skills will be highly regarded.
• A tertiary qualification in child development, neuroscience, psychology or a related field.

Next Steps

Please attach your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this opportunity, and highlighting your relevant experience.

Please note we reserve the right to close applications early should a suitable candidate be identified.

Minderoo Foundation embraces Equal Opportunity and promotes diversity. We actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply.