A WORKPLACE LIKE NO OTHER

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives.

Since our foundation more than 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university: one that breaks free from tradition. Instead, we focus on fostering collaboration between students, academics, industry and society, encouraging all to traverse the boundaries of their own perspective and effect change. We’re connecting people across the most diverse fields of knowledge to create bold new possibilities: for their careers, intellectual endeavours, enterprises and the common good.

Macquarie University is committed to pursuing its values of collective ambition to excel in everything we do and create positive impact; bold innovation in pursuit of groundbreaking ideas and transformative solutions; purposeful collaboration to achieve our shared mission; and genuine care, empathy and concern for our community.

An introduction from Professor Samuel Muller, Faculty of Science and Engineering Executive Dean


Acknowledgement of Country


Macquarie University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which the University is situated, namely the Wallumattagal peoples of the Dharug nation and the Gadigal peoples. Recognising the deep connection that Aboriginal peoples have with the land and water, and their role as educators for thousands of years, is an important step towards building a more inclusive and culturally respectful academic environment. 

By acknowledging the enduring role of Elders and Knowledge Holders, the University not only pays respect to their legacy but also emphasises the value of the First Nations peoples’ ongoing contributions to the educational journey. Placing First Nations knowledges at the centre of educational priorities reflects a positive commitment to diversity, sustainability, wellbeing and social responsibility. This holistic approach to education not only benefits students but also contributes to the preservation of Indigenous cultures and the overall wellbeing of society. 

Our Wallumattagal Campus has been designed with careful consideration given to its long history, the natural surroundings and creating a successful educational space. Promising to continue the legacy of caring for Country and prioritising the advancement of future generations through education aligns well with the University’s role in fostering positive societal change.

About us

The Faculty of Science and Engineering is driven by the spirit of innovation. Here we nurture the next generation of science and technology innovators. The pairing of engineering and science in a single faculty means many of our research discoveries see direct technological applications. We are active within many industry partnerships, commercial collaborations and joint enterprise initiatives with government, industry and business partners.

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences combines 75 academics across astronomy, mathematics, physics and statistics to serve 7000 students across the University each session.

Research excellence spans seven distinct areas:


• Analysis focuses on mathematical formulations including curvature flows applications;

• Astronomy, astrophysics and astrophotonics maintains strong international partnerships;

• Category theory builds on Macquarie's world-renowned reputation since the 1970s;

• Photonics develops laser-based systems for environmental and defence applications;

• Quantum information science creates algorithms for future quantum computers with industry collaborators;

• Statistical modelling for complex data addresses health and environmental challenges; and

• Waves, dynamics and modelling explores natural phenomena from fluid dynamics to electromagnetism.


The School's state-of-the-art facilities include more than 30 specialised laboratories, the on-campus Macquarie Astronomical Observatory with access to 2-8 metre telescopes, and partnerships with national supercomputer facilities. With a strong postgraduate community of more than 80 research students and strategic industry collaborations, the School continues to drive breakthroughs across all mathematical and physical sciences disciplines.

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences operates seven research groups that tackle challenges from quantum computing algorithms developed for Google and Lockheed Martin, to laser systems measuring ocean temperatures for environmental monitoring. The School also works closely with Australian Astronomical Optics-Macquarie (AAO-MQ), a recognised world leader in innovative astronomical instrumentation, software and research. Later this year our new $160M engineering and AAO precinct will open on Wallumattagal campus: a world-class facility designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and hands-on learning.

Macquarie University is establishing itself as a leader in equality and inclusion, and we have been recognised for our progress in shaping a welcoming, diverse and inclusive organisation. We are proud to be recognised as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency for our progress towards gender equity, and we are focused on long-term systemic change.


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Who we are looking for

We are looking for a transformational and visionary leader as Head of School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. You will bring successful academic leadership and management experience, with proven ability to lead through change and to aligning research strengths with institutional priorities. You will be a trusted leader, an advocate for diversity, inclusion and belonging.

You will possess a highly regarded external profile with current and prospective partners, industry, government and funders. You will be recognised as an authority in your discipline, with a track-record of academic and research excellence.

You will have enabled collaborations and be skilled at unifying diverse groups of researchers across the discipline, faculty and academic community. You will also have proven expertise in curriculum design and innovation, and in the delivery and assessment of quality teaching programs.

Your modelling of core academic and university values, your future-focused leadership and ability to inspire teams while fostering innovation and excellence will enable you to succeed in this role.
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What you will do

As Head of School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of education in fundamental teaching programs, advancing impactful research, and fostering purposeful partnerships. We are committed to strengthening our academic community, and we seek an authentic and proactive leader who excels in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent.

The successful candidate will be instrumental in crafting and sustaining a holistic vision for the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, guiding its service-heavy teaching programs all while championing a collaborative and inclusive culture.

You will lead the development of strategic initiatives, set directions for discovery, enhance educational excellence, and foster interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration to ensure long-term growth and innovation.
LOCATION
Wallumattagal Campus
Macquarie University
Macquarie Park
Sydney, Australia

REPORTS TO
Executive Dean, Faculty of Science and Engineering

DIRECT REPORTS
The position will have oversight and management of the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

KEY RELATIONSHIPS
- Members of the Faculty Executive and leadership team
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research)
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
- Heads of Schools and Departments
- Key state and federal bodies and government departments
- Accreditation bodies
- Industry

Candidate statement

In no more than three pages, outline what you would bring to the position of Head of School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and what you would hope to accomplish, as well as reflect on your experience in the context of the selection criteria.

Selection criteria

Transformational and Visionary Leadership
• Proven ability to lead through change, rebuild morale, and restore purpose after restructures.
• Experience developing and delivering a compelling vision aligned with university and societal priorities.
• Skilled at uniting teams with varied responses to change.

Academic Credibility and Strategic Insight
• Strong academic standing in a relevant discipline, with peer recognition.
• Insight into emerging trends in mathematical and physical sciences, including interdisciplinary and applied research.
• Experience aligning research strengths with institutional and funding priorities.

Educational Leadership and Innovation
• Leadership in service-heavy teaching programs (e.g., foundational math/physics).
• Record of innovative, student-centred curriculum design.
• Ability to lead a shift toward applied offerings (e.g., Applied Physics) in collaboration with other faculties.

Inclusive and Collaborative Leadership Style
• Values-driven leadership that fosters inclusion and equity.
• Strong relationship-building and listening skills to unify diverse teams.
• Transparent communicator who builds trust through open dialogue.

Operational and Organisational Acumen
• Experience managing budgets, resources, and workforce planning in constrained settings.
• Ability to align academic profiles with teaching and research needs.
• Balances institutional goals with staff wellbeing, workplace safety and academic quality.

External Engagement and Strategic Partnerships
• Proven success in building partnerships with industry, government, and funders.
• Strategic approach to student recruitment and program positioning.
• Experience fostering interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaborations.

Reputation as a Builder and Change Agent
• Track record of rebuilding or growing academic units in size, morale, or performance.
• Experience repositioning disciplines to meet market or societal needs.
• A proactive, future-focused leader committed to transformation.

Our purpose, vision and values

At Macquarie, we are not afraid to choose the less-trodden path. We see life as an exhilarating source of possibilities to grow intellectually and professionally, unconstrained by traditions. We are ready to embrace new experiences and ideas. We believe that a leader is about being a team player and know that success in today’s world is all about collaborating with the right people on the right issues. We are naturally curious and open to the most diverse intellectual perspectives. United by a sense of purpose, a single vision and one set of values, we actively engage in the complex issues that define the future of humanity.

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United by one purpose

We are a university of service and engagement:

• We serve and engage our students and staff through transformative learning and
life experiences.

• We serve and engage our world through discovery, dissemination of knowledge and ideas, innovation and deep partnerships.

• Our University is a place for staff and students to be nurtured and to grow, develop, learn and explore.
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Sharing one vision

We aspire to be:

• a destination of choice for students and staff who share our values.

• deeply connected with our stakeholders and partners and known for this globally.

• ranked among the highest-performing research universities in Australia and, for key disciplines, to be recognised globally for our pre-eminence.

• known across Australia and beyond as custodians of a remarkable university campus that blends the vibrancy of a cosmopolitan university village with a natural Australian bushland setting.
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Embodying one set of values

We value:

• Scholarship – We believe learning, inquiry and discovery improve lives.

• Integrity – We conduct ourselves ethically, equitably and for mutual benefit.

• Empowerment – We make our community a source of strength and creativity.

Through our actions as students and staff, we live these values, and it is against them that we hold ourselves accountable.

How you can apply

Applications should be submitted through Workday, including a CV and Candidate Statement.

For details regarding the position, contact Professor Samuel Muller, Faculty of Science and Engineering Executive Dean, by email to [email protected] or for general enquiries contact Sarah Bate, Head of Talent Acquisition, by email at [email protected] or Kate Williams, Talent Acquisition Consultant, by email at [email protected]

Closing date for applications is Tuesday 9 Sep 2025.

This position requires criminal record checks.


Ref. EXT2235