Post-Doc/Research Associate

A/Prof. Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani
Health Psychology & Behavioural Medicine Research Group
(http://www.healthandbehaviourchange.com/ )
School of Psychology & Speech Pathology
Curtin University (www.curtin.edu.au), Perth, Western Australia
Email: c.thogersen@curtin.edu.au
http://oasisapps.curtin.edu.au/staff/profile/view/C.Thogersen

What is the project about? We have recently received funding from Healthway in Western Australia to conduct a cluster randomised control trial that will test the efficacy of an intervention designed to increase physical activity, reduce sitting and improve mental health in older adults residing in retirement villages in the Greater Perth area. The project’s main aim is to train (using contemporary social-psychological theory) older active residents in retirement villages to motivate physically inactive residents to achieve these outcomes, and by doing so, empowering them to self-sustain these behaviours over time. We will also examine how the physical environment and retirement village characteristics moderate the effects of the intervention. 

Who is conducting the research? This is collaboration between a multi-disciplinary team of senior researchers from Curtin University, Australian Catholic University and Victoria University (both in Melbourne). 

What will be involved for the post-doc/research associate? The successful candidate will be based in Perth and will be responsible for the overall project management.  He/she will manage the day-to-day tasks associated with this project, examples of which are: participant recruitment, preparation of study materials, training residents, travelling to conduct data collection, practical arrangements for workshops, carrying out interviews, management of material for the intervention, qualitative and quantitative data entry and management, and assistance with project reporting and dissemination of the project results (e.g., brochures of the findings). 

What is the remuneration and length of employment? The annual salary will be about AUD $83K. Additional staff benefits can be found on Curtin University’s website. The applicant needs to be able to commence full-time employment on either 1^st August or 1^st September 2016 (to be confirmed). The post is available on a full-time basis until 31st July (or 31 August) 2018.

How do I get more information? Please email A/Prof. Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani with a copy of your CV and a statement expressing why you are interested in the position and what relevant skills/knowledge/experience you possess. 

To be considered for this role, you will need to demonstrate in your statement that you have:

• A PhD in Psychology, Sports Science/Human Movement Science or Public Health (with psychology units/modules). International applicants will be responsible for visa costs.


• Experience researching in physical activity settings. In particular, you should provide examples of your ability to work independently to recruit participants (older residents in retirement villages). Previous research experience conducting research with older adults is ideal but not essential.


• Research experience using qualitative and quantitative methods.


• Excellent verbal (e.g., delivering instructions to participants) and written communication skills (e.g., email correspondence, report writing).


• Research-relevant personal skills (e.g., flexibility, resourcefulness, pro-activeness, problem-solving).


• Excellent time management skills.


• The ability to work well independently and as part of a team.