• Step into a truly unique leadership opportunity—PMSD is home to Australia’s only Doctor of Podiatric Surgery program.
• Shape the future of podiatric education with a team that genuinely cares about innovation, collaboration and community impact.
• Full-time (1.0 FTE) appointment on a tenurable basis
• Base salary range: Level D, $173,024 – $190,355 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The School of Health and Clinical Sciences brings together a diverse community of educators, clinicians and researchers dedicated to advancing health outcomes across multiple disciplines, including Nursing, Social Work, Pharmacy, Optometry, Health Professions Education, and of course Podiatric Medicine and Surgery.

Within this environment, the Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Department (PMSD) plays a distinctive and nationally significant role through its delivery of the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and the Doctor of Podiatric Surgery—the latter being the only accredited program of its kind in Australia.

PMSD is recognised for its strong integration of scientific knowledge, professional training and hands‑on clinical experience, supported by state‑of‑the‑art facilities, simulation environments and specialist surgical suites. The Department maintains robust relationships with hospitals, community organisations and industry partners, ensuring students receive comprehensive real‑world exposure while contributing to meaningful community health outcomes.

It is a collaborative, research‑active and student‑centred area committed to excellence, innovation and the ongoing development of the podiatric profession.

About the opportunity

As Head of Department, you’ll play a central role in guiding the future direction of PMSD. This is a chance to bring your leadership style, experience and ideas to a department that’s ready to grow and evolve.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the team and set the tone for excellence in teaching, clinical training, research and community engagement.
• Oversee curriculum design and assessment across both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, ensuring all accreditation requirements and regulatory standards are met
• Strengthen clinical placement pathways by building strong relationships with health providers, industry and community partners.
• Contribute as part of the School’s leadership team to drive interprofessional learning and strategic academic development.
• Support, mentor and uplift staff—creating an environment where people feel supported, informed and excited about their work.

About you

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is registered with Ahpra as a Podiatrist and brings strong experience in podiatry education and clinical supervision.
• Enjoys leading people and brings a collaborative, inclusive approach to communication and decision-making.
• Has confidence in curriculum leadership, accreditation processes and contemporary teaching methods.
• Knows how to build partnerships and contribute to governance activities within an academic setting.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.

Position description:  PD - Head of Department PMSD (5222842).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Lindie Watkins at lindie.watkins@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday March 15 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.