Director – Center for Southeast Asia Research

Director - Center for Southeast Asia Research

Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Schedule: Full-time

Supervisor: Vice President, Academic Services

Position Summary:

The Director of the Center for Southeast Asia Research (CSEAR) will be responsible for initiating, leading, overseeing and supporting all University research initiatives, projects, and activities pertaining to the Southeast Asia region. This position requires a dynamic individual with a strong background in research, leadership, strategic planning, and a demonstrable record of securing external research funding. The Director will play a crucial role in shaping the research agenda, fostering collaborations, and ensuring the center’s impact and growth in the region.

Essential Functions:

Develop and implement a strategic vision for CSEAR in alignment with the organization's goals and objectives.

Lead multidisciplinary research initiatives that focus on Economics, Education, Digital Technologies and Geopolitics in the region.

Build partnerships with universities, research institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders in Southeast Asia to advance collaborative research projects.

Oversee and support the preparation of research\funding proposals to conclusion, including the planning, execution, and dissemination of research projects and studies, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in Southeast Asia, guiding the research agenda to address critical issues and drive positive change.

Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, encouraging cross-functional teamwork and knowledge sharing among researchers.

Develop and implement initiatives to increase research capacity across the University.

Manage the centre's financial resources effectively, developing annual budgets, monitoring expenditures, and optimizing resource allocation to maximize impact.

Identify potential funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to support research initiatives and sustain the centre's operations and growth.

Represent the centre at conferences, seminars, and other public events, showcasing research findings, insights, and contributions to the broader community.

Cultivate strategic partnerships and collaborations with local and international organizations, fostering mutually beneficial relationships and leveraging collective expertise and resources.

Translate research findings into actionable insights, policy recommendations, and practical solutions to address pressing challenges and inform decision-making in South East Asia.

Engage with policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society stakeholders to advocate for evidence-based policies and practices that promote social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

Essential Qualifications:

A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in a relevant field such as social sciences, environmental studies, public policy, or a related discipline.

Extensive experience (at least 5 years) in research management, with a proven track record of leading interdisciplinary teams and delivering impactful research outcomes.

Deep understanding of the socio-economic, political, and environmental dynamics in Southeast Asia, along with a demonstrated commitment to addressing regional challenges.

Required Skills, Knowledge, Abilities:

Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams, build consensus, and communicate complex ideas effectively to diverse audiences.

Proven ability to cultivate strategic partnerships, secure funding, and engage with stakeholders across academia, government, industry, and civil society.

Excellent project management skills, including budgeting, resource allocation, and performance monitoring, with a focus on delivering results within deadlines and budget constraints.

Fluency in English is required, and proficiency in one or more local languages spoken in Southeast Asia is highly desirable.

Desired:

Demonstrable record of publications

Active researcher

Experience of budget management

To Apply:

To apply, please submit the following documents to the Human Resources Office via careers@aupp.edu.kh or our online job application form:

Curriculum Vitae & Cover Letter (Applicants are required to mention their salary expectations in the Cover Letter)

Statement on Leadership, Teaching and Research Philosophy

ID Card/Passport

Chat to Recruitment team via t.me/auppcareers (069 99 00 23)

We would appreciate it if you could use the designation: “[Director – Center for Southeast Asia Research] – Applicant Full Name” in the subject line.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Inquiries can be directed to the email provided.

Apply Now