Distinguished Fellow – Hearing Therapeutics (Drug & Gene Cures)

Host: Ear Science Institute Australia (Ear Science), Perth, Western Australia
Location: QEII, Ralph & Patricia Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute, 8 Verdun Street Nedlands WA

About the Opportunity
Western Australia’s Future Health Research & Innovation (FHRI) Fund Distinguished Fellows 2025–26 program offers up to $5 million over 5 years (with 75% provided by the FHRI Fund) to attract outstanding research leaders to relocate to WA and lead globally recognised programs.

The Role: Distinguished Fellow – Hearing Therapeutics (Drug & Gene Cures)
The Distinguished Fellow – Hearing Therapeutics (Drug & Gene Cures) will lead a pioneering, WAbased program focused on advancing drug and gene treatments for hearing loss. This role is suited to outstanding interstate or international leaders (academic Level C/D/E or equivalent clinical standing) who will drive innovative research by harnessing Ear Science Institute Australia’s organotypic models, the Aussie Ear Bank, and the clinic-to-lab translational pipeline.

We are looking for an individual who ideally possesses the following qualities and experience
• Internationally recognised leader in hearing therapeutics with laboratory expertise across molecular biology, gene therapy, cell/tissue engineering, and advanced delivery systems.
• Track record of translational research, IP development, and clinical trial initiation in drug/gene modalities.
• Demonstrated ability to build multidisciplinary teams, secure competitive funding, and mentor researchers and students.
• Commitment to consumer and community involvement and equitable care for regional communities.

About Ear Science Institute Australia
Ear Science Institute Australia is a for-purpose medical research institute uniquely integrating science, clinical care, and community outreach to deliver treatments today and accelerate cures for tomorrow. Our facilities include 730+ m² of laboratory and translational space at QEII (Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute) and a national network of Lions Hearing Clinics, enabling rapid translation from lab to clinic.

We lead programs in Hearing Therapeutics, including human inner ear organoids, genetic therapies, targeted drug delivery, and biomaterials. Ear Science established The Aussie Ear Bank (Australasian Hearing Registry & Biobank) to underpin precision medicine and future gene therapy trials; we have also catalysed translational ventures such as Ear Science Therapeutics and ClearDrum.

Recent reports highlight our grant successes, collaborative partnerships, and integrated model
across Hearing Therapeutics, Devices & Implants, and outreach to regional communities.

Enquiries:
Please contact Sandra Bellekom, Chief Executive Officer (Sandra.bellekom@earscience.org.au) or David Sly, Chief Operating Officer – Research (David.sly@earscience.org.au)

How to Express Interest:
Please send (as a single PDF) to Jacci Williams, Chief People & Strategy Officer
(jacci.williams@earscience.org.au):
1. Cover letter outlining your vision for drug/gene cures for hearing loss in WA and alignment to FHRI objectives (max 2 pages).
2. Abridged CV (max 6 pages) with key publications (last 5 years) and summary of research relative to opportunity.
3. Program outline (2–3 pages) covering aims, methodology, anticipated WA health impact, team structure, and high-level budget.
4. Relocation plan & timeline (confirming ≥80% residency in WA) and consumer involvement approach.