Research Assistant - Aged Care

Contribute to research that improves the safety and quality of care for older Australians 

Research into aged care and dementia care is one of the most useful contributions anyone can make to Australian health services today. At the Centre for Health Systems and Safety Research (CHSSR), our work examines how health services actually operate — and how information technologies, electronic health records and decision support can improve the everyday experience of care for people who need it most. 

We are seeking a Research Assistant to provide research support across a program of projects, with a primary focus on aged care. Reporting to Associate Professor Nasir Wabe, you will contribute to literature reviews, ethics and grant applications, data management and analysis, and the preparation of research outputs for publication and presentation. It is a varied role with genuine exposure to the full research lifecycle. 

This is a valuable opportunity for someone early in their research career who would like to build methodological depth alongside a multidisciplinary team of researchers, educators and clinicians. You will be part of a centre of approximately 50 staff, applying research techniques that range from randomised controlled trial designs through to direct observation of clinical work. 

About the Role 

Working under general direction, you will provide practical research assistance across a range of projects within CHSSR. Key responsibilities include: 

• Conducting literature searches and preparing bibliographies for use by principal researchers 

• Assisting with the conduct of research, primarily in aged care, using a variety of research techniques 

• Contributing to the preparation of ethics applications and grant applications to help secure approval and funding for specific projects 

• Assisting with the preparation of research data, documentation and reports for presentation and publication 

• Assisting with data management and analysis, including computational and statistical analysis 

• Undertaking research administrative tasks, such as coordinating project meetings 

• Liaising with internal contacts including Macquarie University research and clinical staff and students, and external contacts including researchers at other study sites and aged care providers and clients 

• Complying with relevant EEO and WHS requirements 

About Us 

The Centre for Health Systems and Safety Research is one of the core research centres within the Australian Institute of Health Innovation. CHSSR runs a multi-stream program of research investigating the outcomes and safety of health services, with recognised expertise in assessing the impact of information technologies and the role of electronic health records and decision support in improving health care delivery and health outcomes. 

The Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences is expanding the boundaries of progressive thinking and rethinking what's possible in addressing some of the significant issues of our time, both nationally and globally. Here you will join researchers, educators and internationally respected clinicians who are united in a mission to deliver the best patient care. We are a place of original discovery and distinctive educational programs that prepare the future of healthcare. 

About You 

You have a relevant undergraduate degree and some experience in a research environment, with particular capability in searching and reviewing published literature. You are methodical, well organised and comfortable handling data and documentation with accuracy, and you communicate clearly with colleagues and external partners. An interest in aged care, dementia care or health services research will serve you well in this role. 

Selection Criteria 

• An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. nursing, public health, epidemiology, pharmacy, health sciences or clinical science). Postgraduate qualifications with a research focus (e.g. Honours, MRes, MPH) in a health-related area are desirable. 

• Demonstrated experience conducting literature reviews, including designing search strategies for online databases such as PubMed. Experience with systematic reviews and meta-analyses is desirable. 

• Demonstrable skills in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), together with experience assisting with data management and analysis, including computational and statistical analysis. 

• Sound organisational skills and a high level of attention to detail, including the ability to progress multiple tasks to deadline. 

• Effective oral, written and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to contribute within a multidisciplinary team. 

• Working knowledge of the Australian health care system. Experience in the aged care sector is desirable. 

• Understanding of statutory privacy and ethical requirements for research, including experience preparing human research ethics applications. 

How to Apply 

To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above). 

Applications Close: Friday 2nd October, 11:59pm AEST  

We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date. 

This position is not available for visa sponsorship, and the successful applicant must have valid work rights in Australia for the full 2 year fixed-term contract. 

For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Associate Professor Nasir Wabe at [email protected]  or Rebecca Wood, TA Consultant at [email protected] 

Pre-Employment Checks 

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. 

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. 

Why Join Us? 

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University. 

Our prime location is just a short walk from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre. Enjoy the benefits of working at a campus that offers: 

• 17% Superannuation 

• Subsidised onsite parking options 

• Flexible working options 

• Training and professional development 

• Onsite childcare facilities 

• Discounted health insurance (Medibank) 

• Onsite vacation care 

• Employee Assistance Program 

• Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre 

• Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics 

A Place Where You Belong 

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework. 

Flexible Work 

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage our personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace.