The Australian Archaeological Institute at Athens was established in 1980 following negotiations with the Greek government. It is one of 18 foreign research facilities established in Athens that focus on Greek, and wider Mediterranean studies, with a heavy emphasis on archaeological fieldwork and research. It aims to promote Greek studies in Australia, as well as to enable Australian scholars to engage in archaeological fieldwork in Greece.

Operating from within the new School of Humanities at the University of Sydney, the Director of the Australian Archaeological Institute at Athens leads the AAIA’s research, impact and outreach and engagement strategy, its performance outcomes, and its workplace culture. The Director contributes to the School and Faculty leadership team’s strategies and operational plans and is responsible for implementing these. They will supervise current AAIA staff, mentor related academic staff and contribute to development and management processes and practice in compliance with University systems, practices, and processes.