Senior Research Assistant – Research Genetic Counsellor

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

The Liggins Institute is seeking a skilled Senior Research Assistant – Research Genetic Counsellor to support an important whole genome sequencing study for people living with cerebral palsy. Working as part of the Cerebral Palsy Project, this role plays a vital part in participant engagement, genetic counselling, and research delivery, in partnership with leading clinical and research organisations.

You will work closely with participants and their whānau, providing high‑quality genetic counselling while contributing to rigorous, ethically sound research with real‑world impact.

In this role, you will:

• Provide genetic counselling to study participants, including establishing rapport, explaining genetic information, and supporting informed decision‑making
• Manage participant enrolment and involvement, including informed consent, data collection, documentation, and follow‑up
• Act as the first point of contact for participants interested in the Cerebral Palsy Project
• Coordinate participant visits and organise the collection and transfer of biological samples
• Ensure accurate, timely, and confidential data entry and record‑keeping using REDCap
• Liaise with clinicians and research team members regarding study cases and results
• Contribute to study coordination, monitoring, ethics, and compliance activities

This is a part-time (18.75 hours per week) fixed term opportunity for 24 months.

The salary range for this role is $73,400 - $90,700 (pro-rated) based on skills and experience.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are a qualified genetic counsellor who brings empathy, professionalism, and strong communication skills to your work. You enjoy engaging with diverse communities and are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment.

You are reflective in your practice, committed to ethical standards, and motivated by research that improves lifelong health outcomes.

Important skills:

• Master’s degree in Genetic Counselling
• Eligible to apply for, or currently registered on, the HGSA Genetic Counsellor Register (MHGSA/FHGSA)
• 1–2 years’ experience as a genetic counsellor (research experience preferred)
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and rapport‑building skills
• Excellent attention to detail and data management capability
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team