Research Assistant, Bilingual (Swahili)
- 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.
Welcome to Bundoora campus – Please click on the video link below:
https://f.io/KDo0ceng
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
Email: MindCare4Women@latrobe.edu.au
Recruitment Enquiries: Talent Acquisition Operations Officer, Yola El-hassanieh;
Email: Y.El-hassanieh@latrobe.edu.au
Please refer to the Position Description below for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.
PD Research Assistant, Bilingual.pdf
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.
We’d love to stay connected! If you would like to find out more about this School, please follow us on LinkedIn:
School of Humanities and Social Sciences: https://www.linkedin.com/company/89174495
Please scroll down to apply.
All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
Why Join La Trobe:
- Develop your career at an innovative, global university where you’ll collaborate with community and industry to create impact.
- Enjoy working on our inspiring and stunning campuses – the perfect hub for industry, students and academics.
- Help transform the lives of students, partners and communities now and in the future.
La Trobe’s Cultural Qualities:
La Trobe University is committed to upholding the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV Code). This aligns with our mission to create safe and respectful communities. Candidates will be asked during the recruitment process to declare whether they have ever been investigated for, or found to have engaged in, gender-based violence in previous employment and/or in legal proceedings and provide relevant information to assist in determining suitability. Gender-based violence means any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats based on gender, that results in, or is likely to result in harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation liberty or autonomy.
