Research Nurse (multiple positions) or Field Team Leader – Local Position, Menzies, Dili, Timor-Leste
ABOUT MENZIES:As one of Australia’s leading medical research institutes dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians, and a leader in global and tropical research into life-threatening illnesses, Menzies School of Health Research continues to translate its research into effective partnerships and programs in communities across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The Menzies Global and Tropical Health (GTH) Division is committed to dealing with 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 an office in Dili, Timor-Leste with around 40 Timorese and expatriate staff employed in-country, supporting the delivery of capacity-building and research projects. A number of projects are being conducted through the office under a Memorandum of Understanding between Menzies and the Ministry of Health. SUMMARY OF POSITION:The National Tuberculosis (TB) Prevalence Survey (NTPS) primarily aims to estimate the prevalence of bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary TB among the adult population (aged > 15 years) in Timor-Leste in 2022-23. It will achieve this through large-scale TB screening in randomly selected clusters across Timor-Leste. The NTPS will screen eligible persons from selected communities, using symptom screening, chest x-ray and sputum collection for laboratory diagnostic testing. The Research Nurses will be responsible for the implementation of NTPS screening activities in selected communities across Timor-Leste. This will include tasks related to census taking, registration and consent of participants, interviewing, undertaking chest X-rays and collecting sputum samples from survey participants. The Research Nurses will also be required to collect survey data using the survey database and tablets or laptop computers. The Research Nurses will be responsible for ensuring that patients who need TB notification and treatment, or clinical care for any other reason, are referred and adequately handed over to local health services. The Field Team Leader position will also be responsible for additional tasks. These include but are not limited to: leadership of the field team consisting of 3 other Research Nurses/Research Officers, engaging with local leaders and health service staff, ensuring field team staff adhere to survey protocols, maintaining oversight of data quality and completeness, reporting team activities to the Project Coordinator. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:Research Nurses:To assist with the establishment of screening sites in communities, including setting up equipmentTo conduct all aspects of screening in accordance with the survey protocols, including: census taking, registration and consent of participants, interviewing/symptoms screening, chest X-ray and sputum collection.Enter survey data into an electronic database.Follow survey procedures and work closely with other field team personnel to ensure that survey participants follow the correct screening processRefer participants needing TB notification and treatment or other clinical care to local health services and ensure safe handover of careEnsure the highest standards of participant confidentiality and privacy are maintained throughout the survey.Assist with other survey activities including as required by the Field Team Leader.Other duties as required by the supervisor, country manager or project leadsField Team Leader (in addition to Research Nurse responsibilities):Engage with local leaders and health facility staff at village, suco, administrative post and municipal levels before and during field activities.Lead the field team and manage the day-to-day operation team activities to complete TB screening of selected communities in accordance with relevant protocols.Establish suitable, accessible, and safe screening sites at each location, in collaboration with relevant local authorities and coordinate the logistical needs of the team.Maintain regular contact with the Project Coordinator to provide feedback on team operations and report any issues or challenges encountered.With assistance from the relevant technical leads, provide technical support to field team members to ensure screening activities are effectively completed.Manage the collection of survey data during screening and liaise closely with the designated data manager to ensure accurate, complete, and timely electronic data collection. SELECTION CRITERIA:Essential:Nursing qualification and ability to practice as a nurse in Timor-LesteStrong verbal and written communication skillsExperience in the use of electronic data collection systemsAttention to detail, initiative, good judgement, and strong problem-solving skills.Flexibility and ability to work well in a team and motivate other team members.Good time management skills, with ability to work efficiently while maintaining accuracy and quality.An understanding and awareness of relevant Workplace Health and Safety as well as Equal Opportunity principles and legislation along with a commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe workplace for all Menzies staff, students, volunteers, and visitorsDesirable:Experience conducting community-based TB, health screening, or community health research projects would be an advantage. Closing date: 28th September 2022 To apply for this position, please refer to http://careers.menzies.edu.au/ and select / click on the Research Nurse (multiple positions) or Field Team Leader - Local Position, Menzies, Dili, Timor-Leste role. Please ensure to attach your application letter and Curriculum Vitae with three references and responds to the selection criteria if possible. A Copy of Identity Card/ BI or Electoral Card and Copy of Good behaviour certificate (kelakuan baik) before or by the 28th September 2022. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the interview. Menzies Timor-Leste is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workplace. Women are strongly encouraged to apply.Position Description AUDDili