Research Assistant – SPOTS Fieldwork Coordinator

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

Established in , the School of Population Health (SOPH) is one of five in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Our mission is to work with others to provide knowledge and skills needed to improve the health of all New Zealanders.
Four things distinguish the school: its focus on factors that affect health of whole populations; the range of skills and experience amongst the staff (these extend across the spectrum of primary care, community health, health services and public health) size of the school; the schools location.
Located on the Grafton Campus, the school is fully self-contained, in a purpose-built building. The building has been designed to maximise interaction and collaboration.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to support the principal investigator (PI) of the SPOTS (Sex and Prevention of Transmission Study) team in leading and executing a comprehensive research project across six cities, to be based in Auckland.

This role is full-time FTE) for 9-months. Availability during the lead-up to and during Pride Season in January-March is essential.

The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and overseeing fieldwork logistics, recruiting and managing a team of 30 casual staff nationwide, conducting community consultations, and coordinating large-scale data collection. The role requires significant engagement with national agencies to ensure best practices in recruiting a large number of gay and bisexual men (GBM) for the study.             

This is a full time (37.5 hours per week), 9 months fixed term contract.

Remuneration: $58,300-$72,700 per annum dependent on experience

Please note that we are looking to hire starting in early October

For more detailed information, please refer to our website and the Position Description.

Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team

The Department of Social and Community Health contributes to teaching across a range of subjects and programmes including addiction studies, health promotion, population mental health, translating evidence for decision makers and violence prevention studies.

The Sex and Prevention of Transmission Study (SPOTS) research group is a multi-institution team of Ministry of Health and HRC-funded researchers and postgraduate students, supported by an international expert reference group. Candidates should possess strong logistics and organisational skills, a keen understanding of LGBTQ health issues, and a passion for advancing knowledge in this critical domain.

You will be part of a multi-institutional team of University of Auckland, Health Research Council, and Ministry of Health funded researchers and postgraduate students. Candidates should possess proven expertise in research coordination, an understanding of LGBTQ health issues, and a passion for advancing knowledge in this critical domain.

He kōrero mōu | About you

To be successful we require you to have:

  • a postgraduate degree (examined or conferred) in a field relating to population health, epidemiology, relevant social sciences (e.g., psychology, especially social/health psychology, sociology).
  • Proven experience in managing and coordinating large-scale research project or fieldwork
  • Strong organisational and logistic skills
  • Experience in managing a team of casual staff
  • High levels of initiative, self-motivation, skills relevant to working independently and in teams
  • A current valid driver’s license
  • Very well organised, excellent communication skills, professional, proficiency in English (verbal and written)

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities. 

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

  • Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
  • Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
  • A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare and a number of other discounts on internal and external services. 

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 20 September to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.

Please reach out to Tony Sriamporn via for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions but we do not accept applications by email.

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF , people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz