Who Are We?

At MCRI we share a powerful vision; to re-imagine the future of child health. We are the home to many life-changing scientific discoveries. We believe that no question is too impossible to try and answer. We are renowned for our cutting edge focus on early interventions, improved diagnosis, prevention and development of potential cures. Our success is founded on a philosophy of collaboration through a multi-disciplinary approach to solving the toughest questions in child health. MCRI is a proud member of the Australian Network on Disability. We are committed to creating a positive working environment which values all backgrounds and experiences. We strive to foster an inclusive culture that is underpinned by equal opportunity for all and a culture based on respect, consideration and dignity.

The Opportunity

We are currently Seeking a Research Assistant to work within our Prvenetion Innovation Research Group. The ideal candidate will be someone who wishes to further develop his/her knowledge in child health and is interested in genetics and community-based research. They should ideally possess the personal and professional skills needed to conduct the work detailed below on a day-to day basis with appropriate senior support and supervision of the Project Leader. The successful candidate will work across several supported projects associated with the Victorian Childhood Hearing Impairment Longitudinal Databank (VicCHILD) http://www.mcri.edu.au/VicCHILD/. This will involve participant follow-up, cleaning and analysis of genetic and epidemiological data, data linkage applications and assist with the preparation of reports and manuscripts.

VicCHILD is Victoria’s population-based childhood deafness databank/biobank. With more than 1100 participants since commencement of recruitment in 2012, it holds close to 100% genetic samples and close to 100% consent for long-term data sharing, data linkage, and re-contact for future research. This innovative project brings together clinical, genetic, epigenetic and epidemiological expertise, combined with longitudinal population-based outcomes information. VicCHILD works closely with the following Melbourne Children’s Campus statewide initiatives to co-create an internationally unique framework for large scale childhood deafness research.

Your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Contacting families of children with hearing loss for the purpose of recruiting families into research studies, making appointments, following up participants.
• Maintenance of REDCap database, record files, paperwork and computer files related to the project.
• Cleaning and analysis of datasets, including genetic and epidemiological data.
• Fostering relationships and liaising with key internal and external stakeholders to support the establishment of the International Hearing Network.
• Contributing to the administrative and other tasks involved in a large community-based databank.
• Co-supervision of student interns taking part in the CCCH internship program.
• Contributing to funding applications.
• Assisting and contributing to data generation for research and publications.
• Effectively communicating with senior members of the research team.
• Conducting ethical research at the highest level of integrity and in line with the Australian Code for Responsible Conduct of Research and MCRI policies.
• Working to improve skill base in research productivity and methodology.
• Assisting in high calibre, competitive research.
• Following standard operating procedures, study protocols and study guidelines.
• Continuous maintenance of neat and orderly records, lab books and data storage.

Selection Criteria

Essential

• Tertiary qualification in BSc or BA /Honours/Masters in biostatistics, epidemiology, genetics, psychology, public health or related discipline, plus an appropriate level of expertise gained from a combination of experience, training or professional accreditation.
• Demonstrated computer skills, including software for data analysis (STATA or R), research databases and MS Office suite.
• Demonstrated capacity to work independently and achieve team objectives and results within set timeframes, while also working constructively with supervisor/mentor, and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Excellent time management, organisational and analytical problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated meticulousness in data collection and data management.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and sensitivity to confidentiality and privacy.

Desirable

• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• An interest in young children and their families, in child health and learning, preferably demonstrated through choice of degree and experience (where relevant).
• Experience working within a research environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of a range of research methodologies and their application in empirical research.

What’s in it for you:

• 12 Month Contract (Possible Extension).
• Part Time Position (22.8 hours per week).
• Attractive Salary $77,592-$86,456 per annum (pro rata) + Super.
• Salary Packaging, Well Being Program and much more.
• Flexible working options also available.

Apply Now!!

For a full list of responsibilities and the key selection criteria download the position description.

Only applicants who address the key selection criteria will be considered. In one document please place your cover letter, key selection criteria, and resume. Applications will only be considered when submitted via the MCRI website.

For specific questions not answered in the PD please contact Libby Smith [email protected], using the subject line: Research Assistant enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Click apply to proceed with your application.

Position Reference: 30476

On occasions where we receive a large number of applications, we may close the advert ahead of the publicised closing date. We would therefore advise that you submit your completed application as soon as possible.

All applicants please be aware that in line with the Victorian Chief Health Officer’s Directions, all MCRI and VCGS workers must have received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccination by no later than 29 October 2021 and be fully vaccinated by no later than 26 November 2021, unless a medical exception applies.

Applicants will be required to provide their Australian Government COVID-19 Digital Immunisation Certificate/s as part of our pre-employment requirements.

We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, all members of the LGBTQI community and people with disability.

Should you require any specific support or adjustments please talk to us and we will be happy to accommodate.