"Research Assistant, Bilingual"

• Based at our vibrant La Trobe University’s Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
• Part time .40 FTE / 2 days per week
• Fixed term, 6 months from commencement with the possibility of extension
• Higher Education Officer (5) salary band commencing $81,477 plus 17% superannuation
• Work with inspiring people who are driven to make a difference

About the position

The Research Assistant will support the national study "MindCare4Women," funded by The Department of Health and Ageing. This study focuses on reducing dementia risk in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.

Key responsibilities will include assisting the Principal Investigator and Project Manager with a variety of tasks, such as preparing ethics amendments and governance documents, supporting literature reviews, organising co-design workshops, aiding recruitment efforts, translating materials into Swahili for the Sub-Saharan communities, and collecting both qualitative and quantitative data.

A deep understanding of Sub-Saharan culture is essential; therefore, an individual with a Sub-Saharan background is preferred.

Skills and Experience required for this position:

• Education: Must hold a bachelor’s degree in health sciences, with evidence of further study relevant to the field.
• Cultural knowledge and community engagement: We are seeking a candidate with strong knowledge of, and connections to, sub-Saharan African communities. The role requires a demonstrated understanding of the cultural norms, values, and practices of these communities to support meaningful engagement and collaboration.
• Language: Fluent in both written and spoken Swahili, with excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. This is a mandatory skill for this role.

We may also consider candidates from a Sub-Saharan background who are fluent in Arabic.

Research Experience: Demonstrated experience in research activities, including ethics applications, stakeholder coordination, participant recruitment, data collection, and reporting.

Research Communication: Strong writing and communication skills, with experience contributing to scientific reports, publications, or conference presentations.

Technical Skills: Proficiency with software and IT applications, including Microsoft Office, and research tools such as Covidence, EndNote, and RedCap.

Benefits:

• 17% employer contributed superannuation
• On site childcare facilities
• Flexible work arrangements
• Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses

How to apply

Closing date: By 11:55pm Thursday 26th February 2026

Position Enquiries: Jo Antoniades, Associate Professor Health Community and Society
MindCare4Women@latrobe.edu.au

Recruitment Enquiries: Talent Acquisition Operations Officer, Yola El-hassanieh;
Y.El-hassanieh@latrobe.edu.au

Only candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia may apply for this position.

Please submit an online application ONLY and must include the following document/s to be considered:

• An up to date resume; and
• A separate document addressing The Key Selection ‘Essential” Criteria bullet points, which is located in the position description.