Research Assistant (Suicide Prevention Research)

• $66,825 + Superannuation + Salary Packaging ($15,900.00 + Meal & Entertainment expenses)
• 0.3 FTE
• Contract until 17/12/2027

About the Institute
Located on the lands of the Bidiagal Clan of the Dharawal Nation (Randwick, NSW), Black Dog Institute is the only Medical Research Institute in Australia to investigate mental health across the lifespan, our aim is to create a mentally healthier world for everyone.  Emphasising a devoted focus to into suicide prevention, digital mental health, a workplace mental health, we undertake a unique ‘translational’ research approach that allows us to turn our world-class findings into new treatments, prevention strategies, clinical services, educational programs, and e-health products. We join the dots by connecting research answers, expert knowledge, and the voices of lived experience to deliver solutions that impact and boost the health care system for patients and practitioners alike. Our work is used to drive evidence informed change across the rapidly expanding mental health sector and sets the foundations for a brighter and healthier future for all.

Benefits

• Hybrid work, 1-2 days per week in office (choose your days, consistent team collaboration days where possible)
• Salary Packaging: $15,900.00 of your base salary tax free & up to $2650.00 meal & entertainment
• Family first, people first culture, we put our research into action at work to make sure we maintain mental health and wellbeing at work
• We in the Innovate stage of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), actively embedding reconciliation into our workplace culture.
• Pet friendly workplace
• Leave benefits including public holiday swap, gifted annual leave, and wellbeing leave 
• Employee discounts and gym membership benefits

The Role

This Research Assistant role is designed to support the research activities of the Youth Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention lab. The role will contribute to the recruitment of schools and individual participants and conduct data collection activities across school-based and digital health studies, conduct literature reviews and synthesise evidence. The research assistant will work under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team of senior researchers to undertake these activities.

Duties & Responsibilities

Research Duties

• Undertake literature reviews and synthesis
• Contribute to preparing and editing research reports
• Assist with participant recruitment into research studies in accordance with any relevant study protocols
• Assist with data collection, which will require travel to schools and may involve qualitative interviews
• Perform other general research and/or administrative tasks associated with the project, such as preparing research materials and data entry
• Adhere to all research ethics and governance codes and regulations
   

Work Health and Safety

• Comply with all WHS legislation and BDI WHS Policy and Procedures
• Report any WHS hazards and significant issues to Director, People & Culture delegate and the reporting tool Rely.
• Work In a safe manner, applying duty of care.

Note: the list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and the Institute may change or request additional activities to meet the operational needs of the business.

Selection Criteria

Essential Criteria

1. Completing, or have completed, an undergraduate university degree in public health, psychology or related discipline, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of at least six months’ education, training, or experience.
2. Experience working in a research environment, with a strong understanding of the ethical considerations of research
3. Demonstrated experience in conducting literature reviews
4.  Ability to communicate effectively within a team
5. Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to exercise judgement and manage competing demands.
6. An understanding of, and commitment to, the Black Dog Institute’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
7. Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.
8. Have a valid NSW Working with Children Check or willingness to obtain one

Desirable

1. Have a valid NSW driver's license and own car

Inclusion at BDI  

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience where all candidates can fully participate in the process.

We warmly encourage applications from First Nations peoples, culturally and racially diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others from underrepresented backgrounds.

We recognise that not everyone has had equal access to opportunities, and valuable skills and perspectives can be gained through diverse life experiences.

If this role excites you but you don’t meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply as your lived experience and insights are important to us.

Accessibility

If you have accessibility requirements or require information in an alternative format, please email workplaceadjustments@blackdog.org.au or phone 02 9382 4530 

Privacy

We respect your privacy and confidentiality. We only provide information to other staff where it is needed to arrange workplace adjustments.

How to Apply
To become a part of the Black Dog Institute team, follow the link to our careers site on ELMO and submit your most up to date resume and a detailed cover letter addressing the selection criteria for the role. If you are shortlisted for the role, we will call you and let you know you are successful. Please do not respond to any suspicious emails requesting you to upload your ID or personal details. 

Commencement of employment with the Institute is subject to the completion of relevant pre-employment checks, include reference checks, a National Criminal History Check, and other role-specific requirements.
These checks are conducted in line with the Institute’s commitment to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all employees, and check outcomes are reviewed and applied fairly and in accordance with the inherent requirements of the role