Independent Scientist

Position Description:
The Health Systems and Health Equity Research Group (HSHER) is a multidisciplinary group of research scientists and knowledge exchange specialists that looks at the design, delivery and effectiveness of health care, with a focus on systems, services and policies. It also examines issues related to equity and access among those who are most vulnerable to developing mental health or addictions problems. Activities within the HSHER include securing grants and contracts to conduct research, publishing research results in peer reviewed journals, and disseminating findings through other knowledge exchange media. The HSHER is currently seeking an Independent Scientist to take a lead role in health services research, including research on treatment service utilization, factors influencing treatment entry, data linkage between utilization data and population health survey data, longitudinal trajectories related to the development of substance use and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and access to treatment. Reporting to the Group Head HSHER , and as part of a larger scientific team the Independent Scientist will be expected to play a key facilitation role in build a productive scientific team mentoring, coaching and training research staff, post doctoral fellows and research trainees. This may include direct supervision of research staff and research trainees. The Scientist will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to conducting and fostering research and enthusiasm about participating in multidisciplinary research and training activities. This includes the facilitation of a learning environment fostering knowledge exchange and knowledge transfer. The Independent Scientist will work collaboratively with the scientific team members of the Group, as well as with researchers in other Groups and departments, clinical staff, staff engaged in training and education, and knowledge exchange. This will also involve collaborations to ensure the effective dissemination of project findings to other CAMH departments (e.g., clinical services) and to external stakeholders. In addition the Independent Scientist will be involved in publications and peer reviewed journals and will play a lead role in the submission of grant proposals to external funding agencies. Other responsibilities include creating, managing and monitoring detailed project work plans; overseeing projects and research staff; involvement in the preparation of progress reports to project funders; and preparing presentations, project reports, and publications for peer-reviewed journals. The Scientist will support a workplace that embraces diversity, encourages teamwork and complies with all applicable and regulatory requirements. This position is currently located at 33 Russell Street.

Qualifications:
The successful applicant is required to have a Ph.D. in the social or health sciences and should demonstrate prior experience and familiarity with substance use services research, with a particular focus on issues related to treatment access, utilization and outcome. While operating within the context of a project-based system, the Scientist must be able to work independently and be self-directed. The scientist will have the ability to conduct high level statistical analyses, including multi-level modeling, and should have an appreciation of mixed methods (both quantitative and qualitative methodology), regardless of disciplinary background. The Scientist’s experience will include: familiarity with addiction treatment systems; population surveys, including planning, data access and methods of complex survey data analysis; research, program design and evaluation within an addiction service, hospital or community organization. A proven track record and aptitude in writing for peer-reviewed publication is required, as is the ability to develop quality applications to peer reviewed granting agencies, including successful experience in the acquisition of contracts or grants. The successful candidate has demonstrated ability in project management, including the design and management of research projects that require an emphasis upon application and uptake. Experience in all stages of research is necessary, including the collection, management and analysis of data using advanced statistical software (e.g. SPSS, SAS or STATA), and report writing. Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, decision makers and the scientific community is required. You must be able to lead and work effectively within an interdisciplinary team and interact comfortably with diverse community partners. The ability to work with individuals of diverse ethnoracial and cultural backgrounds is required. Bilingualism (English/French) and/or proficiency in a second language are considered an asset.

Please note:
This full-time contract position (ending March 31, 2013) is not part of any bargaining unit.

Salary Range:
Competitive salary and benefits.

Please forward your résumé to:
Human Resources
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
1001 Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario
M6J 1H4
Fax: (416) 583-4316
E-mail: jobs@camh.net

Please remember to quote File Number 11425 on your application.

Posting Date:
Tuesday July 19, 2011

Closing Date:
Monday August 1, 2011 by by 5pm

File Number:
11425