Full-time contract until 30 May 2021 based in Dili – Timor LesteAbout Menzies:Menzies School of Health Research is one of Australia’s leading medical research institutes dedicated to improving Indigenous, global and tropical health. Menzies has a history of over 30 years of scientific discovery and public health achievement. Menzies works at the frontline, joining with partners across the Asia-Pacific as well as Indigenous communities across Northern and Central Australia.About the position:The Menzies Global and Tropical Health (GTH) Division is committed to tackling key areas of public health concern that impact on the health and wellbeing of people and communities across northern Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. With a focus on translational research we shape our research program through close collaboration with a diverse range of healthcare providers, policy makers and researchers, to target priority health issues. Our aim is to find meaningful and relevant ways to improve the health of people in our region.Menzies has recently opened an office in Dili, Timor-Leste. Two main projects, STRONG TL and the Fleming Fund Country Grant for Timor-Leste are being conducted through the office under a Memorandum of Understanding between Menzies and the Ministry of Health, along with other smaller projects and partnerships running concurrently.The operational research technical advisor will have responsibility for leadership of Menzies’ work in engaging with the national Institute of Health (INS) to provide mentoring and to facilitate review of research strategy, policy and practice. Through the Structured Operational Research Training Initiative, the research fellow will provide direct training and support in the context of ongoing operational research projects. The role will also include multiple opportunities to lead and participate in research projects in Timor-Leste, with a focus on operational and implementation research. Research relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic is an expected component of the work.This position will be based in Dili, Timor-Leste.The Operational Research Technical Advisor will:Undertake an initial assessment of health research governance, policy and practice in Timor-Leste in collaboration with the INS.Produce a report with recommendations for strategic improvements in health research policy and practice in Timor-Leste.Work with INS to develop health research strategic priorities and to develop a framework for prioritising COVID-19 related research in the context of the ongoing global pandemic.Support structured operational research training initiative participants to complete operational research projects in Timor-Leste.Participate in Menzies research projects in Timor-Leste.Develop new research projects, in partnership with the Menzies Timor-Leste leadership group.Liaise with Timor-Leste project leads to refine Menzies’ strategy for capacity building in Timor-Leste in health research.Any other tasks as reasonable required by the supervisor, project leads or country manager.The successful applicant will have:Doctoral qualification or combination of research experience and qualification in the relevant field e.g. science, nursing or medicine.Experience working in international health, including working in clinical settings in lower-middle-income countries.Demonstrated skill in leading operational and implementation research projects in lower-middle-income countries.Highly developed written and verbal communication skills with experience in writing high level reports.Ability to communicate and interact effectively with people from diverse cultures and educational backgrounds.Demonstrated initiative, good judgement and strong problem-solving skills.Demonstrated capacity to work independently without direct supervision, under broad direction and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.Experience of maintaining good organisational and time management skills and proven ability to meet deadlines.Hold or be able to obtain a National Police Clearance certificate.Ability to interact effectively with people from diverse cultures.Contact: Dr Josh Francis on +61 (0) 423 528 381 or josh.francis@menzies.edu.auWhat we offer:6 weeks annual leaveOption to increase super to 14%Closing date: Sunday, 9 August 2020 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.For information on how to apply for this position and to obtain the Position Description and Selection Criteria please visit www.menzies.edu.au/careers or phone 08 8946 8626. PD_Operational Research Technical Advisor AUDDili