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EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

For the Recruitment of the

Executive Manager – Forensic Innovation,

Validation and Research

Department of Justice

Applications close Tuesday 20th October 2026

About Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ)

Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ) operates specialised Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry functions that support the criminal justice and coronial systems in Queensland.

Forensic Chemistry provides analytical and advisory services principally to the Queensland Police Service in the areas of (i) illicit drug analysis, which involves the analysis of both known and emerging novel drugs, (ii) clandestine drug laboratory investigation, which involves both attendance at crime scenes, and analysis of exhibits to provide expert opinion to the courts, and (iii) trace evidence examinations, which cover oil spill investigations, lubricant analysis, explosives, and fibres, which are often associated with serious crimes such as sexual assault and murder. Our chemists provide expert impartial scientific advice though the provision of formal statements and evidence in court.

Forensic Biology provides analytical and advisory services principally to the Queensland Police Service in the areas of evidence recovery, DNA analysis and result interpretation culminating in expert advice and evidence. In general, the Evidence Recovery team conducts examinations of exhibits, biological material screening and recovery of samples for further testing, the Analytical Team conducts DNA analysis, including interpretation of samples submitted, and the Reporting Team conducts DNA interpretation, statistical interpretation and the development of statements for court, including giving evidence in court.

The Case Review Team has been established to coordinate and triage the review of certain categories of DNA samples to determine whether further testing could provide valuable evidence to Queensland’s criminal justice system.

Our work at FSQ involves exposure to material related to deaths and criminal offences that may be confronting, due to its graphic and personal nature. Sensitive and professional management of exhibits and information is a critical requirement of this role. The successful candidate will have personal qualities that include well developed resilience, tact and effective strategies for managing themselves and their ability to support colleagues in situations that may be distressing and stressful.

About the role

The Executive Manager of Forensic Innovation, Validation and Research provides leadership and oversight of capability uplift, innovation, validation and verification, and research activities across Forensic Science Queensland.  The role is responsible for ensuring technologies, systems and processes utilised in forensic science are appropriately developed, validated, verified and implemented in accordance with accreditation requirements, scientific best practice and organisational needs.  

The position leads complex forensic science projects, applying robust project management, data analysis and statistical evaluation principles to support evidence-based decision making, continuous improvement and the delivery of high-quality forensic services.  The Executive Manager provides expert forensic scientific advice and leadership to support FSQ’s visions of delivering quality, timely and innovative forensic services.

Key responsibilities of the role

  • Lead the strategic planning, governance and delivery of validation and verification activities across FSQ, ensuring new methods, technologies, software, workflows and reporting approaches are scientifically robust, fit for purpose and compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 and NATA accreditation requirements and relevant forensic science standards.
  • Develop and maintain validation and verification frameworks across forensic science disciplines, providing scientific leadership in study design, statistical evaluation and implementation planning to ensure forensic activities are scientifically robust, appropriately designed and compliant with accreditation and quality requirements.
  • Lead complex forensic scientific and innovation projects from concept through implementation, ensuring effective governance, stakeholder engagement, risk management, resource allocation and delivery of measurable organisational outcomes.
  • Lead the collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific and operational data arising from forensic research, validation and innovation activities to evaluate outcomes, support evidence-based decisions making and identify opportunities for continuous improvement across forensic science services.
  • Provide expert scientific governance, leadership and advice relating to the development, implementation and evaluation of forensic science methodologies, technologies, systems and processes, ensuring research, innovation, validation, verification activities are scientifically robust, operationally suitable and compliant with accreditation and quality requirements.
  • Lead the review and continuous improvement of existing forensic science methodologies, policies and procedures and quality frameworks, to ensure alignment with scientific best practice, accreditation requirements and organisational priorities.
  • Professionally and effectively lead and manage the innovation function/s to develop a positive organisational culture and create a safe and innovative environment for staff through facilitating staff development, performance appraisal and other human resource management measures.
  • Establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with forensic science providers, research institution, professional bodies and government stakeholders to support scientific advancement, knowledge sharing and implementation of best practice forensic methodologies.
  • Adhere to defined leadership, management and service quality standards, including health and safety policies and procedures financial and human resources are managed effectively in accordance with approved business and strategic plans, and procurement and governance principles are adhered to.
  • Actively enhance FSQ’s reputation through the dissemination of forensic research findings via publications and participation in conferences/seminars and workshops.

How To Apply

Applicants are encouraged to review the Role Description and the links providing further information about the department to assist with understanding the recruitment and selection process.

To be considered for this role please provide the following information in your online application, for the assessment of your suitability:

  • Your current CV or resume, including two referees
  • A short-written response (maximum 2 pages) on how your experience, abilities, knowledge and personal qualities would enable you to achieve the key responsibilities and meet the skill requirements of the role.

For confidential enquiries please contact:

Linda Parker, General Manager – Selection Panel and HR Consulting Services, Eden Ritchie Recruitment

0400 003 793 or fsq@edenritchie.com.au 

Applications close Tuesday 20th October 2026