Research Fellow (Health Risk Modeling), Smart Futures

Smart Water Research Centre (SWRC)
Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Appointment: Full-time, fixed-term (three year) appointment
Salary level: University of the Sunshine Coast Classification Level A Step 6 to 8 (Salary range A$69,410 to A$74,505 gross per annum plus up to 17 percent superannuation)
Supervisor: Executive Dean, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Position No: 2060
Reference No: 1405   
Closing date: Midnight, Sunday 25 November 2012

Position overview

The Research Fellow conducts high quality research and publishes high quality journal articles on the modelling of potential health risks associated with water from maturation treatment ponds.

Working in close co-operation with Assoc. Professor Peter Dunn, the principal researchers (Dr Helen Stratton, Dr Anne Roiko, Associate Professor Charles Lemckert and Dr Scott Wilson) and other research team members. the Research Fellow provides primary research capacity for a three-year research project. The research involves extensive monitoring and analysis of pathogens with a view to expanding this work to develop new methods for detecting pathogens and validate maturation ponds as disinfection treatment systems.

Key responsibilities

Under the direction and guidance of the principal researchers, the key responsibilities are to:

  1. Undertake microbial health risk modelling using data collected on the occurrence of reference pathogens in the maturation ponds and pathogen removal rates, and available dose-response data.
  2. Contribute to the development of decision support models based on empirical data, modelled risk estimates and potential exposure scenarios.
  3. Evaluate results and synthesise ideas to prepare and deliver verbal presentations within the group and to external stakeholders.
  4. Produce reports and prepare and submit manuscripts for publication.
  5. Identify and contribute to the preparation and submission of research grant applications for funding opportunities.
  6. Co-supervise honours and HDR students at any of the three SWRC universities (University of the Sunshine Coast, Griffith University and Central Queensland University).
  7. In order to fulfil these responsibilities, the Research Fellow needs to:
    • develop and maintain effective working relationships with relevant staff and students within the three SWRC universities
    • develop and maintain effective working relationships with external stakeholders
    • comply with University policies and procedures and relevant appropriate legislation, and
    • meet Occupational Safety and Health, anti-discrimination, equal opportunity and other legislative requirements in accordance with the parameters of the position.

Selection criteria

Essential

Applicants need to demonstrate, with evidence:

  1. PhD in a relevant field.
  2. The ability to develop stochastic models based on data from field studies
  3. Demonstrated knowledge of health risk assessment principles.
  4. Demonstrated experience in the use of relevant statistical software (for example, R, SAS or SPSS) and risk modelling software (for example, @Risk and Netica).
  5. Well-developed organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise, plan effectively, adhere to timelines and meet deadlines.
  6. Sound track record of research publications.
  7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write clear and succinct research reports and prepare and deliver effective presentations to stakeholders.
  8. Sound interpersonal skills including the ability to work harmoniously and collaboratively as an effective member of a small team of researchers.
  9. Commitment to and experience of applying relevant and applicable policies, procedures and legislation in the day-to-day performance of the duties of this position.
Desirable
  1. Knowledge of health risk assessment principles, with a special emphasis on water-related health risks
  2. The ability to develop stochastic models based on data from field studies in aquatic
    environments such as maturation ponds.
  3. Experience in the education and supervision of honours and HDR students in relevant fields.
  4. Experience in identifying funding opportunities and applying for grants.

More information

Dr Anne Roiko
Senior Lecturer in Health and Environment
School of Health and Sport Sciences
Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Tel: +61 7 5430 2839
Email: aroiko@usc.edu.au

To apply for this position, go to How to Apply.