The Opportunity

The Research Assistant will work on a research project focused on children and adolescents who experience dissociation symptoms. This project aims to develop validated assessment tools to better detect dissociation and create practical resources for clinicians and families to support recovery, development, and wellbeing. Alongside this work is a strong commitment to community involvement through Advisory Group meetings which provide ongoing research input, as well as co-design workshops to develop validated assessment tools and resources.

In this role, you will work closely with the Senior Research Officer, other research assistants and members of the Healing Kids, Healing Families team at The Kids to deliver community involvement activities (advisory group meetings and codesign workshops), support participant recruitment, collect and analyse data, prepare outputs, research and community involvement administration, ethics amendments, and stakeholder engagement. The position will provide comprehensive support across all stages of the research process.

Key responsibilities:

Support engagement, recruitment and retention of study participants (dissociative and non-dissociative children and adolescents), advisory group and community members.

Assist with data collection and analysis to inform the development of assessment tools and resources for dissociation.

Support the preparation and dissemination of research outputs (i.e., journal articles, community reports, presentations).

Develop high quality written documents including briefing notes, agendas, minutes, presentations and posters.

Based in our offices within Perth Children’s Hospital, this part-time (0.6 - 0.8 FTE) role will be offered for an initial 1-year period.

About You

The successful candidate will hold an Honours degree (or equivalent) in a health science (psychology, social work, counselling, nursing, or public health). A Postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline (e.g. counselling) is desirable, but not essential. You will also demonstrate:

Research experience in mental health or public health, preferably in child, youth, or trauma-related areas.

Group facilitation experience, ideally with people living with mental health conditions, disability, or on sensitive topics.

Prior experience in research management and administrative tasks (e.g., stakeholder engagement and timeline tracking).

Highly developed interpersonal communication and writing skills.

Ability to set goals, manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines and a strong attention to detail.

At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we:

Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.

Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.

Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.

Partner with communities to strengthen cultural awareness and belonging.

Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.

We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.

Alongside our inclusive culture, you’ll enjoy:

Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.

Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.

Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.

Flexible and hybrid working options.

Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.

Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.

Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.

How to apply

If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application.

Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section.

Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contact rec••••••••@thekids.org.au.

For more information about the role please contact: Nicole Hanna, Program Manager.

Contact Email: nic•••••••••@thekids.org.au

Closing Date: 12th July at 11:59pm - We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.