Career opportunities

• A fantastic opportunity to lead on all aspects of the Institute’s communication strategy
• Great office located in Glebe (with a truly flexible and hybrid approach to work)
• Professional, friendly and supportive environment
• Not for profit sector with an opportunity to take advantage of great salary packaging benefits

About us

The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.

We have an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and over 20 years’ experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 60 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.

Our office is based in Glebe, however, we offer great flexible and remote working arrangements (we come to the office for a purpose – to connect and to collaborate – with flexibility to choose your location of work outside these times). Our staff employee engagement survey showed our staff are proud to work here at the Institute and would recommend it as a great place to work – so read on and see how you can join the team!

About the role

We have a great opportunity for a visionary leader who is passionate about driving improved health and social outcomes to join the Senior Leadership team of the Institute. With responsibility for Communications at the Institute, this role will provide strategic advice on all aspects of the Institute’s messaging while also overseeing the development of science communication activities that are accessible, engaging and improve the use of evidence from research. This position will also be responsible for building relationships with philanthropic organisations and funders to effectively convey the Sax Institute’s impact while securing support for the Institute’s mission.

This role will suit someone who is eager to develop a deep understanding of the needs and interests of the Institute’s target audiences while building and nurturing relationships with current and new Institute partners. Leading a talented team, this is a diverse role that will see you work with the Board, the Exec Team and Program Leads to implement all aspects of our Communications strategy.

Although no two days will be the same, your responsibilities will include:

• Develop and execute a corporate communications strategy
• Lead and manage our corporate communications team
• Develop and implement a partnerships and philanthropy engagement strategy
• Overseeing the development of a science communication program

About you & next steps

We are looking for an experienced and innovative leader who has the following experience and current skill set:

• Advanced degree in a relevant field, such as business, marketing, communications, non-profit management, or a related field.
• At least 15 years of experience in philanthropy, corporate communications, science communication, or related fields, with a proven track record of securing funding from philanthropic sources and building successful partnerships.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing teams, with proven ability to create, develop, coach and inspire effective multi-functional teams.
• Strategic and creative thinking and strong entrepreneurial drive
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills to create and sustain productive relationships to reach common goals and objectives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop persuasive and compelling funding proposals and negotiate complex agreements.
• Ability to effectively prioritise and manage complex projects, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively.

If this sounds like the role you have been dreaming of next, please click here to read more about this great opportunity.

To apply please send your CV and a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria to jobs@saxinstitute.org.au with the subject heading: Head, Partnerships and Communication

Please contact Martin McNamara at martin.mcnamara@saxinstitute.org.au if you have further questions about the role.

The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• A fantastic opportunity to drive innovation and strategic development on how we approach evidence mobilisation
• Great office located in Glebe (with a truly flexible and hybrid approach to work)
• Professional, friendly and supportive environment
• Not for profit sector with an opportunity to take advantage of great salary packaging benefits

About us

The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.

We have an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and over 20 years’ experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 60 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.

Our office is based in Glebe, however, we offer great flexible and remote working arrangements (we come to the office for a purpose – to connect and to collaborate – with flexibility to choose your location of work outside these times). Our staff employee engagement survey showed our staff are proud to work here at the Institute and would recommend it as a great place to work – so read on and see how you can join the team!

About the role

This newly created position is a great opportunity for a dynamic and visionary leader to join our team. With responsibility for driving innovation and strategic development linked to how we approach evidence mobilisation here at the Institute, this is an ideal role for someone who is looking to work collaboratively with key stakeholders in the research and policy communities to enhance the impact of the work of the Institute.

This role will lead both our Evidence Connect and Sax Consult programs – two programs focused on ensuring that decision makers have access to evidence from research to support their work.

As the Director of Evidence Mobilisation, you will be responsible for developing and advancing cutting-edge methods and approaches to deliver evidence-based solutions for the Institute’s partners. You will also be required to collaborate with partners to identify their evidence needs and to develop innovative approaches to provide timely and relevant solutions.

Although no two days will be the same, your responsibilities will include:

• Leading strategic development in evidence mobilisation
• Leading the development of new innovative programs to support evidence needs of decision makers
• Managing and supporting the Evidence Connect and Sax Consult teams
• Contributing as member of senior management group of the Sax Institute
• Contributing to the national and international body of evidence on knowledge mobilisation

About you & next steps

We are looking for an experienced and innovative leader who is looking to make a significant impact on health policy and practice in Australia who has the following experience and current skill set:

• Demonstrated experience in innovation and evidence mobilisation in a research or policy setting.
• Proven ability to lead and manage teams, and to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing successful business models.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and a track record of delivering results.

A PhD in a relevant field such as health services research, population health, epidemiology, or related discipline would be highly regarded.

If this sounds like the role you have been dreaming of next, please click here to read more about this great opportunity.

To apply please send your CV and a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria to jobs@saxinstitute.org.au with the subject heading: Director, Evidence Mobilisation by Sunday, 4 June 2023

Please contact Sian Rudge at Sian.Rudge@saxinstitute.org.au if you have further questions about the role.

The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• A fantastic opportunity to co-lead the Institute’s program of research in Aboriginal health
• Great office located in Glebe (with a truly flexible and hybrid approach to work)
• Professional, friendly and supportive environment
• Not for profit sector with an opportunity to take advantage of great salary packaging benefits

About us

The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.

We have an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and over 20 years’ experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 60 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.

Our office is based in Glebe, however, we offer great flexible and remote working arrangements (we come to the office for a purpose – to connect and to collaborate – with flexibility to choose your location of work outside these times). Our staff employee engagement survey showed almost 90% of our staff are proud to work here at the Institute and would recommend it as a great place to work – so read on and see how you can join the team!

About the role

This newly created leadership position has been established to co-lead the Institute’s program of research in Aboriginal health. This key program has recently expanded to focus on a range of health research areas including healthy ageing, patient care and food security – plus many other areas that will be determined through our partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs). The Sax Institute has worked in partnership with ACCHSs in NSW for the past 20 years, conducting a program of research that is determined by ACCHS identified priorities. Our work involves ACCHSs and government partners, as well as multidisciplinary teams of researchers.

This role will work on a daily basis with our incredibly skilled and capable Aboriginal health research team and will be responsible for:

• Increasing the availability and accessibility of evidence from research to support the priorities and needs of ACCHSs, AHMRC and communities
• Leading the development of new approaches incorporating Indigenous knowledge to support evidence needs of decision makers
• Leading the development of new programs of research in partnership with Aboriginal people and ACCHSs
• Leading the delivery of new research projects and manage research personnel
• Establishing and maintaining strong engagement with partner ACCHSs to support the development and implementation of culturally sensitive research

About you & next steps

Our new Co-Director will have the following skills and experience:

• Aboriginality is essential
• PhD or relevant equivalent work experience
• Experience working with ACCHSs, healthcare practitioners, government officials and researchers
• Substantial experience in knowledge mobilisation activities and research
• Substantial experience in the conduct of research as it relates to policy and program development in health, health-related, or human services fields
• Substantial experience in, or a strong understanding of, the work of government, non-government and health service delivery organisations 
• Demonstrated ability to problem solve at a high level, develop, implement and evaluate innovative solutions
• Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills and proven ability to work effectively with a diverse range of people including researchers, clinicians and senior government officials.

If this sounds like the role you have been dreaming of next, please click here to read more about this great opportunity.

To apply please send your CV and a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria to jobs@saxinstitute.org.au with the subject heading: Co-Director, Aboriginal Health Research program by 2 June 2023.

Please contact Sandra Bailey on sandra.bailey@saxinstitute.org.au or Sian Rudge at Sian.Rudge@saxinstitute.org.au if you have further questions about the role.

The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Sax Institute acknowledges the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation as the first peoples and traditional owners of this land. We pay our respects to Aboriginal Elders, past, present and emerging.

• A fantastic opportunity to join a professional, friendly and supportive team committed to the rapid delivery of high-quality research evidence projects to inform the development or revision of public health policy and programs.
• Work for an independent, not-for-profit organisation positioned at the cusp of knowledge mobilisation with the opportunity to forge strong relationships with a wide range of experts working in research and policy.
• Great office located in Glebe – with a truly flexible and hybrid approach to work
• Great salary packaging benefits available

About the Sax Institute

The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.

The Institute has an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and nearly 20 years’ experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 50 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.

Our office is based in Glebe, however, we offer great flexible and remote working arrangements (we come to the office for a purpose – to connect and to collaborate – with flexibility to choose your location of work outside these times). Our staff employee engagement survey showed our staff are proud to work here at the Institute and would recommend it as a great place to work – so read on and see how you can join the team!

About the role

Our Evidence Connect team facilitates the delivery of fast and accurate summaries of the latest health evidence to inform policies and programs. The team also delivers services, including training and forums that encourage greater use of evidence in policy and program decision making. Reporting to the Deputy Director – Evidence Connect, the Senior Project Officer has an integral role in the team and is central to ensuring the delivery of our key projects.

We are looking for a professional who is skilled and experienced in providing project co-ordination, management and support services to join our Evidence Connect team. You get things done, and you also influence others to get what you need done. You’re clear on the outcome you’re trying to achieve, and you have controls in place to ensure your projects remain on track and deliver on time.

Making use of your knowledge of government processes and decision making, and experience in health or health-services research, this role will allow your people skills to shine.

You will develop and maintain relationships with a wide range of relevant stakeholders from agencies who are users of Evidence Connect services and the research teams who produce Evidence Connect rapid reviews. You are an effective communicator. You frame your words well, understand your audience, and are able to effectively facilitate both online and face-to-face meetings to bring stakeholders on the journey.

Although no two days will be the same, responsibilities will include assisting and collaborating with colleagues and a range of external stakeholders to:

• Coordinate and manage the end-to-end delivery of rapid evidence review projects; including preparation of project proposals, recruitment and onboarding of research teams, communication with key stakeholders, coordination of consultations to facilitate exchange of information and support completion of project deliverables on time, to quality standards and within agreed scope.
• Coordinate publication and promotion of evidence review reports
• Coordinate the delivery and promotion of the training program

You will work as part of a tight-knit and dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about making a positive contribution to improve the health and wellbeing of communities.

Selection Criteria

We are looking for a proactive and organised Senior Project Officer to fill this position who has the following experience and current skill set:

• Tertiary qualifications in the fields of public health, health policy, health services, social science or a related area, or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in the conduct of research as it relates to policy and program development in health, health-related, or human services fields.
• Knowledge and understanding of government processes, environments and decision making.
• Demonstrated confidence and ability to work effectively with a diverse range of people including senior academics, clinicians, and staff in government and non-government organisations.
• High-level skills and experience in project co-ordination and management, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and to ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope.
• Demonstrated high-level problem-solving skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft 365 office suite, databases, office management systems.
• Familiarity with Endnote referencing system.

Further details

If this sounds interesting, please click here to read more about the position.

To apply please send your CV and a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria to jobs@saxinstitute.org.au with the subject heading: Senior Project Officer. Applications close on 7 June 2023.

Please contact Eileen Goldberg at eileen.goldberg@saxinstitute.org.au if you have further questions about the role.

The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Scholarship:  The scholarship includes a stipend of $32,000 per annum (tax-exempt) plus $2000 per annum for professional development and research costs. Fee waivers will be considered for the successful candidate.

Contact: Professor Paul Kennedy

Duration: 3 years, with the option to extend for 6 months.

School: School of Computer Science

Closing date: When filled

Overview:

The combination of AI techniques such as machine learning and dynamic simulation modelling towards a hybrid modelling approach is a relatively new area of research. This combination of data-based and knowledge-based modelling lends itself to modelling complex systems that are partly based on causal relationships, but with outcomes also partly resulting from hidden dependencies that are represented in huge amounts of data.

Despite the integration of machine learning and other AI techniques into dynamic simulation modelling presenting a potentially valuable avenue for innovation within the field of simulation modelling, several questions remain, such as:

• Can simulation modelling generate data or information that can be used to train machine learning models in cases where data is unavailable or imperfect?
• How can AI improve the insights or outputs of simulation models?
• Can a hybrid machine learning/dynamic simulation model be applied in a real-world healthcare context to support health-related decision making and/or to improve systems of care?

The Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at the Children’s Hospital Westmead (CHW) is a data rich environment which is subject to rapid change. High quality, long term clinical data sets and registries covering staffing and resourcing, treatment, and patient outcomes are available in this setting. Making the best use of the available data is critical for optimising processes and outcomes, responding to change, and for future planning including to help evolve effective models of care for future built environments.

Working closely with the Decision Analytics team at the Sax Institute (a team focused on using advanced dynamic simulation modelling methods as well as research and visualisation technologies to develop timely, accessible decision support tools for policy and practice), this PhD scholarship will support a candidate to develop a research project to harness the available data to answer critical questions relevant to the delivery of services in the CHW PICU. The project will be centred around utilising and developing cutting edge methodologies tying together Discrete Event Simulation modelling with machine learning to make best use of the available data to inform service delivery in this setting. The research will address the questions posed above regarding the integration of these two techniques.

Who is Eligible

• Master’s degree by research or Bachelor’s degree with strong academic record which is equivalent to First-Class Honours
• Domestic students currently residing in Australia.
• Hold a valid working with children check to enable working on site at CHW

Selection Criteria     

• Demonstrated self-motivation and commitment to work on research topics.
• Demonstrated experience in the areas of machine learning and/or dynamic simulation modelling.
• Demonstrated experience in programming in Python, Java or related languages.
• Excellent written skills evidenced by scientific journal papers, conference papers, or technical reports.
• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills

Applicants must meet the eligibility and address all the selection criteria. In addition to the above eligibility criteria for the scholarship, students should meet the UTS admission requirements to UTS PhD program. The minimum eligibility requirements for admission are available at https://www.uts.edu.au/future-students/postgraduate/essential-info/admission-requirements.

Other Information

The position will be supported by supervisors:

• Dr Danielle Currie, Senior Simulation Modeller, Decision Analytics, Sax Institute
• Dr Marino Festa, Medical Co-Lead Paediatric Intensive Care and Medical Lead Kids Critical Care Research, Children’s Hospital at Westmead
• Prof Paul Kennedy – Head, School of Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology

This position will work closely with the Sax Institute and will have the opportunity to work in conjunction with the Decision Analytics team onsite in their Glebe office.

How to Apply       

In the first instance, interested applicants should send their CV, brief (maximum one page) supporting statement, three referees and publications (if applicable) to Prof Paul Kennedy at paul.kennedy@uts.edu.au.

Following the initial endorsement by the supervisor, applicants will go through the UTS online application process.

• The Sax Institute is inviting experienced simulation modellers to be on a shortlist of candidates for casual employment and consultant contracts
• Make a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Australians
• Competitive salary and consultancy rates

About the Sax Institute

The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.

The Institute has an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and nearly 20 years’ experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 50 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.

The Sax Institute’s Decision Analytics team uses simulation modelling and other analytical methods to develop adaptable decision support tools. These tools are developed in partnership with government departments, policy agencies and program planners in health and social sectors, providing them with a low-risk virtual environment to test potential impacts of different decisions before they are implemented in the real world.

About the role

This role will provide a unique opportunity to build simulation models to solve real-world problems and have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Australians. Examples include strategic investments to reduce suicide deaths, planning and resource allocation optimisation to improve the efficiency and outcomes of hospital systems, managing and planning for infectious disease pandemic such as COVID-19, and studying the dynamic relationships between human activities and the physical and social environment.

They will have a primary responsibility in the technical development of high-standard dynamic simulation models, as part of a collaborative and supportive team with diverse expertise in public health policy and planning, participatory and consensus building approaches, and evidence synthesis. They are likely to be involved in participatory model-building workshops with policy makers, researchers, clinicians, and people with lived experience. The role may also include contributing to model documentation and dissemination of findings, and driving methodological innovations.

About the talent pool

The talent pool will be comprised of a small number of experienced simulation modellers. Applicants will first be assessed by their CVs and cover letters. Those considered eligible will be contacted within 10 business days to arrange a brief interview. When an opportunity emerges we will contact the person in the talent pool with the most relevant experience to determine their current availability. The terms and conditions of the work will be agreed for each project.

 About you – Selection Criteria

Essential

• PhD qualification or equivalent professional experience in one or more dynamic simulation modelling methods, i.e. system dynamics, discrete event, or agent-based modelling
• A demonstrated track record of developing dynamic simulation models for research or real world applications
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team and balance inputs from diverse stakeholders
• Strong critical thinking, analytical, and problem solving skills
• A healthy drive for excellence
• Strong time management skills to deliver models in short time frames

Preferred

• Experience with Stella Architect or AnyLogic software
• Knowledge of public health and policy, social and environmental determinants of health, and government policy decision-making
• Experience in participatory modelling and co-design process
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team and balance inputs from diverse stakeholders
• Ability to communicate technical details to lay audience
• Proficient in statistical software applications (e.g., SPSS, Stata, SAS, R)
• Commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Australians

Further details

To apply please send your CV to decision.analytics@saxinstitute.org.au with the subject heading: Simulation modeller. A cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria is strongly encouraged.

Please contact Christine Whittall on christine.whittall@saxinstitute.org.au if you have further questions about the role.

Applications close: ongoing

The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.