Current vacancies

The Administration Assistant provides an important central support role completing various day to day administrative functions which assist with the daily operations of the Victorian Clinical Genetics Service and Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, contributing to the efficient & effective delivery of projects, programs and services.

This position primarily provides administrative support to the Group Leader and other team members of the Genetic Support Network of Victoria (GSNV).

This position ensures that the administration, reception, events, programs, IT systems, office procedures, and information resources are developed and administered competently; build on the profile of the GSNV both internally and externally. The position also includes performing relief Reception, greeting visitors, answering incoming telephone calls via the switchboard mail sorting and associated duties in a professional manner and in accordance with organisational protocols. 

The position will also involve various day to day administrative functions which assist with the daily operations of the VCGS and MCRI, contributing to the efficient & effective delivery of projects, programs and services.

You will provide general relief reception and switchboard duties and will serve as the initial contact point for VCGS and Murdoch Childrens Research Institute.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Experience in office administration
• Excellent organisational skills
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills
• Sound communication skills both written and oral
• Sound computer skills and technology awareness.
• Typing skills at a competent level
• Experience in a not for profit, research and/or academic institution is desirable

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

Applications close 27 May, 2012

The Genetic Support Network Victoria (GSNV) is a vibrant and active group committed to promoting the interests and well-being of people affected by genetic conditions.  The GSNV is proud to be associated with a wide range of support groups throughout Victoria and Australia.

Assisting individuals and families with the 'human', non clinical side of genetic diagnosis is common place in our day to day activity. The core of our enquiries involve assisting in access to services, connecting with others, education, advocacy, support and information.

Provision of genetic counselling in line with current standards of care, this includes documentation of patient contact and details in appropriate medical records, working in conjunction with Clinical Geneticist, Medical Genetics Fellows, Genetic Counselling students and other trainees, effective liaison and relationships with specialist services and medical units within the hospitals, liaison with community support agencies and support groups and refer as appropriate, participation in ongoing education and professional development.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Part 1 certification in genetic counselling (HGSA)
• Knowledge and understanding of genetic counselling, including medical, genetic and psychosocial aspects
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

Applications close 27 May, 2012

The Metabolic Screening Laboratory, VCGS Pathology is seeking an experienced biochemical geneticist to supervise and participate in the operations of the laboratory. The laboratory provides comprehensive biochemical testing for clinically suspected inborn errors of metabolism for the states of Victoria and Tasmania, Australia (population 6 million) and is an Australasian referral centre for a number of specialised tests. The laboratory works closely with a team of metabolic clinicians and the Newborn Screening Laboratory to provide an integrated diagnostic service. The laboratory also carries out research and development aimed at improving the diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism and the understanding of the underlying abnormal biochemistry.

The successful applicant will lead a team of 2 – 3 other scientists and be responsible for the overall quality, trouble-shooting, interpreting and reporting of tests as well as the regular operation of the laboratory. They will also be required to liaise with clinicians and work with the Laboratory Head to enhance the quality and revenue of the service, develop and introduce new tests and take an active role in training and education of other staff members. Occasional out of hours work is required for emergency testing.

Applicants should hold a degree in science (and preferably hold a higher degree) and have at least five years post graduate experience in biochemical genetics, or a closely related field, and formal qualifications in biochemical genetics. Applicants must have extensive practical experience in operating and maintaining chromatography and mass spectrometry instrumentation as the successful applicant will be required to independently trouble-shoot and maintain the laboratory’s equipment and develop and introduce new methods. Familiarity with the requirements for pathology laboratory accreditation, quality systems and documentation is also required.

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

The Genetic Support Network Victoria (GSNV) is a vibrant and active group committed to promoting the interests and well-being of people affected by genetic conditions.  The GSNV is proud to be associated with a wide range of support groups throughout Victoria and Australia.

The Genetic Support and Education Coordinator will lead, develop and manage the GSNV’s growth as a professional genetic support service provider. The successful candidate will proactively position the GSNV as an efficient, credible, and responsive and sort after peak body, working to improve genetic health outcomes in Victoria.  Reporting to the Group Leader you will also work closely with the VCGS and MCRI Corporate Services to position the GSNV as a core pillar of the VCGS agenda.

This exciting role will call on your ability to build and maintain strong external and internal stakeholder relationships and draw on your skills and expertise as a trained genetic counsellor.  

This role exists to:

• Identify and develop significant, collaborative and mutually beneficial relationships with new and existing corporate partners, genetic health services, education providers and other organizations across Victoria and throughout Australia in support of the GSNV strategic vision
• To develop strategic partnerships with new and existing corporate partners to facilitate the strategic acquisition of service and education functions
• To develop collaborative research opportunities and research outcomes
• Deliver measurable outcomes in support of  clinical genetics and research within VCGS

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Part 1 and or Part 2 certification in genetic counselling (HGSA)
• Degree in Health & Allied Services, Genetic Counselling, Education or similar
• Certificate IV in Training & Assessment  or working towards this
• Knowledge and understanding of genetic counselling, including medical, genetic and psychosocial aspects
• Demonstrated experience in the development and coordination of high quality educational programs

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

Applications close 27 May, 2012

Reporting to the Director - VCGS, the Group Leader will develop the strategic plan of the GSNV in conjunction with the Director, VCGS.

The Group Leader will contribute to the enhancement of the work of the VCGS by:

• Leading and coordinating the overall strategy of the GSNV in line with the VCGS and Institute strategic plan
• Coordinating and supporting activities to successfully attract funds
• Performance managing, developing and coaching direct reports
• Extending and interlinking the priorities of the Group via internal and external collaborations
• Developing the Group’s research output through the interaction of clinical researchers and clinical teams on campus
• Attracting and recruiting to their Group the best health and allied professionals through increasing national and international reputation
   

You will be responsible for:

• Developing, articulating  and delivering on 3 year Strategy and plans for the Group
• Maintaining a high level of awareness of national and international public debate potentially impacting the group’s planning and development, maintain professional networks to ensure that GSNV is positioned to contribute to relevant public policy debate
• Working with the Director VCGS & the Institute to develop local and international networks and collaborations with the intent of building partnerships, relationships and synergies to complement the Group and enhance the reputation of the VCGS & Institute
• Developing appropriate collaborative links within MCRI &  campus partners (Royal Children's Hospital & the University of Melbourne)

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Knowledge of government funding programs and community service systems
• Relevant skills in community development
• Demonstrated knowledge of genetic conditions, understanding and knowledge of working with people with chronic illness or disability, their families and health professionals
• Strong leadership and management skills

Applications close 27 May, 2012

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

The MCRI/RCH Neurogenetics Fellowship is aimed at training a young clinician-researcher in the discipline of neurogenetics. The position is suited to advanced trainees or new graduates in the medical fields of neurology or genetics. Preference will be given to applicants who plan to enroll as a PhD student.  The breakdown of duties will be 80 per cent research activities (clinical and/or laboratory-based) and 20 per cent clinical training, primarily outpatient-based.  At the conclusion of the fellowship the trainee will be expected to have achieved the following:

• Knowledge of clinical and laboratory research methods in neurogenetics.
• Training in the inheritance patterns, clinical findings, diagnostic laboratory investigations, imaging features and management of common neurogenetic disorders that present in childhood.
• An understanding of current laboratory methods in neurogenetics.
• Knowledge of the ethical and legal issues related to genetic testing.
• Development of research leading to creation of new knowledge for preparation of both manuscript and grant applications to secure ongoing competitive funding.

The primary supervisors will be Dr Richard Leventer and Professor Martin Delatycki.

You will be responsible for: 

• Carrying out a supervised research project, preferably as part of a PhD.
• Presenting the findings of a research project at a conference and in a manuscript for publication.
• Attending selected outpatient clinics relevant to neurogenetic disorders.
• Attending selected clinical and research meetings.
• Contributing to the preparation of ethics and grant applications relevant to the project(s) you are involved in.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• To be an advanced trainee or fellow of Royal Australasian College of Physicians  (or equivalent) in the fields of neurology or genetics.
• A commitment to a 3-year program which will be weighted towards clinical or laboratory research.
• Strengths in planning, organisation and efficiency to facilitate the completion of projects.
• The ability to work in a team environment.

For further details about this position please contact: Dr Richard Leventer on +61393455661or email richard.leventer@rch.org.au

Applications close 9am 4th June 2012. REF: MC2830

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

We are seeking a full time Senior Biostatistician for an initial 12 month period to develop a strong portfolio of research, primarily as a collaborator on epidemiological and clinical studies, but also with the scope to lead research on methodologically oriented problems within the Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics Unit (CEBU). The work will involve direct contributions to the design, conduct, analysis and reporting of research studies, including the development of research protocols and grant proposals, and contributing to scientific publications. The appointee will also contribute to the research support activities of CEBU, in particular by providing advice in research methods including statistics to clinical and other researchers at the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute (MCRI) and on the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) campus. The biostatistician will also contribute to CEBU's training program in quantitative research methods and play a role in providing supervision and assistance on research methods to students. The position is expected to work with a significant degree of independence, reporting to the Group Head and working closely with other members of the CEBU team. Success in the role is likely to lead to continuing opportunities within the organisation.

You will be responsible for:

• Significant and independent contribution to research projects as a biostatistical collaborator, including: Development of research protocols with particular emphasis on study design and statistics; Preparation and implementation of statistical analysis plans; Contributing to manuscripts for publication; Development of grant proposals.
• Contribute as member of the CEBU team to providing advice and training on biostatistical and epidemiological issues to researchers at MCRI and on the broader RCH campus.

To be successful in this position you will have:

• A tertiary qualification in biostatistics or closely related discipline and a relevant PhD
• Evidence of postdoctoral research output as evidenced by publication record
• At least two years’ experience in collaborative research involving the application of statistical methods in health research
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

For further details about this position please contact: Professor John Carlin 03 9345 6363.

Applications close 9am Friday 25 May 2012. REF: MC2872

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

The International Youth Development Study is seeking up to two Senior Telephone Interviewers/Shift Supervisors from 2 -3 evenings per week and/or weekend work to undertake contact and recruitment with existing research participants, and complete telephone surveys.  The role will also assist with casual staff supervision and training, and monitoring of data collection progress. Work will be in the evening, out of office hours.

The IYDS is a collaboration between researchers within the MCRI's Population Health Studies of Adolescents Research Group, the Royal Children's Hospital's Centre for Adolescent Health in Melbourne and the University of Washington in the U.S.  During 2012 the IYDS will be following up participants from the Victorian arm of the study. The primary aim of the follow-up study is to understand the transition from adolescence to adulthood and examine a range of behaviours and experiences including health and wellbeing, relationships, antisocial behaviour and alcohol use.

You will be responsible for:

• Participant contact and recruitment;
• Undertaking telephone surveys with participants;
• Supervising and supporting casual telephone staff;
• Assisting in staff training;
• Monitoring progress and reporting to the Project co-ordinator and manager.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Previous experience in conducting research interviews, telephone surveys, or similar
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly motivated and reliable with strong time management skills
• Tertiary qualification in health/research related discipline
• A commitment to regular weekly shifts, including evening and/or weekend work

Successful applicants will commence at the end of June for a period of six months. Further opportunities may be available after this time.

Remuneration for this casual position is within $34.76 - $43.18 per hour range. (approx 10 hrs per week)

For further details about this position please contact: Rachel Smith on 9345 4521

Applications close 9am Friday 25 May 2012. REF: MC2855

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the above mentioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

We are seeking a full time Technical Assistant/Research Assistant to join the Skeletal Biology and Disease group within the Cell Biology, Development and Disease Theme.  This position reports to Professor John Bateman, head of the group. The appointment duration will be until 28 Dec, 2012 initially, with a possible extension until Dec 31 2014.

The appointee will conduct  mouse genotyping, manage mouse breeding strategies in consultation with mouse facility staff, maintain databases.  The position will also be responsible for animal ethics applications and maintaining mouse colonies.  Furthermore, they will analyse mouse tissues by histology and for gene expression patterns by immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridisation and RT-PCR and protein analysis by Western blotting.  Other experimental responsibilities may include in vitro experiments  such as cell and tissue culture, DNA construct preparation, cell transfections and analysis by cell biology techniques including confocal microscopy.

Applicants must have good problem solving skills, demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experimental procedures. Good communication skills are essential. Experience in mouse handling, colony management PCR genotyping and histology.  Competency in immunohistochemistry, RNA and protein isolation and analysis and cell biology techniques (eg cell culture) and database use (eg Excel) will be advantageous.

For further details about this position please contact: John Bateman on 03 8341 6422

Applications close 9am Monday 21 May 2012. REF: MC2871

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the abovementioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.

The International Youth Development Study (IYDS) is seeking up to 3 casual telephone interviewers for 2 -3 evenings per week and/or weekend work, to undertake contact and recruitment with existing research participants, and complete telephone surveys. 

The IYDS is a collaboration between researchers within the MCRI's Population Health Studies of Adolescents Research Group, the Royal Children's Hospital's Centre for Adolescent Health in Melbourne and the University of Washington in the U.S.   During 2012 the IYDS will be following up participants from the Victorian arm of the study. The primary aim of the follow-up study is to understand the transition from adolescence to adulthood and examine a range of behaviours and experiences including health and wellbeing, relationships, antisocial behaviour and alcohol use.

You will be responsilbe for: 

• Participant contact and recruitment, & ongoing participant follow up;
• Undertaking telephone surveys with participants as required;
• Preparation of postal surveys;
• Assist in locating participants who have been lost to follow-up, following existing locating protocols;
• Perform data entry and database management accurately and with strong attention to detail.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Previous experience in conducting research interviews, telephone surveys, or similar;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• Highly motivated and reliable with strong time management skills;
• Tertiary qualification in health/research related discipline;
• A commitment to regular weekly shifts, including evening and/or weekend work.

Successful applicants will commence mid-late July for a period of six months. Further opportunities may be available after this time.

Remuneration for this casual position is within $30.07 - $36.89 per hour. (Approx 10 hours per week)

For further details about this position please contact: Rachel Smith on 9345 4521

Applications close 9am Friday 25 May 2012. REF: MC2856

Please send written applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, Academic Transcripts, Cover Letter and CV containing details of 3 referees, quoting the above mentioned reference number to Human Resources via recruitment@mcri.edu.au.