- Collaborate with researchers, policy makers and practitioners
- Great office located in Glebe (with a truly flexible and hybrid approach to work)
- Opportunity to apply your research expertise to support public health policy and practice
- Not for profit sector with an opportunity to take advantage of great salary packaging benefits
- Full time position, however, open to discussing part time hours with the right candidate
About us
The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.
We have an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and over 20 years’ experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 60 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.
Our office is based in Glebe, however, we offer great flexible and remote working arrangements (we come to the office for a purpose – to connect and to collaborate – with flexibility to choose your location of work outside these times). Our staff employee engagement survey showed our staff are proud to work here at the Institute and would recommend it as a great place to work – so read on and see how you can join the team!
About the role
This newly created position has been established to lead, guide and support the application of systems approaches and systems science to the diverse work portfolio of The Australian Prevention Partnership Centre (Prevention Centre). Reporting to the new Head, Prevention, this position will also lead the development and implementation of the Prevention Centre’s Emerging Leaders Strategy and the activities of the Emerging Leaders Network, which brings together early and mid-career researchers, policy makers and practitioners. It will also play a key role in contributing advice and systems science expertise the Institute more broadly as it grows its strategy of addressing complex health problems with policy makers, practitioners and researchers to improve Australians’ health and wellbeing.
Although no two days will be the same, your responsibilities will include:
- Providing leadership and support for the application of systems science in prevention research, policy and practice
- Collaborating with prevention colleagues and partners to develop and implement the Emerging Leaders Strategy
- Partnering across teams, networks and agencies to build systems science capabilities and capacity
About you and next steps
We are looking for proactive and experienced Senior Research Fellow who has the following experience and current skill set:
- PhD or equivalent in public health, chronic disease prevention or a relevant related field.
- Deep understanding of systems science, methods and tools, and demonstrated ability to apply systems thinking to support strategic systemic change in applied practice settings, and to use systems science to guide research questions and methods in prevention / public health.
- Strong track record of leading prevention / public health / health related research, preferably that involved applying systems science to the prevention of chronic diseases. A senior academic affiliation with an Australian university is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated experience of working in partnerships between research institutions, and government and non-government organisations (NGOs) to support policy and program delivery.
- Proven ability to convene and lead dialogues, workshops and webinars relevant to population health research, policy and practice, and to support and mentor early and mid-career colleagues.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop persuasive and compelling funding proposals and negotiate complex agreements.
- Ability to effectively prioritise and manage complex projects, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively towards shared goals across research disciplines, and policy and practice in health and non-health sectors.
If this sounds like the role you have been dreaming of next, please read the position description for more about this great opportunity.
To apply please send your CV and a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria to [email protected] with the subject heading: Senior Research Fellow – Systems Science by 23 September 2023.
Please contact Professor Lucie Rychetnik if you have further questions about the role.
The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.