Genomics and Society Advisor
(http://www.genomebc.ca/profile/career-opportunities/genomics-and-society-advisor/)
Reporting Structure:
Reports to the Chief Scientific Officer.
Job Scope:
The Genomics and Society Advisor will be a driving force within the organization to better understand the societal context for genomic research. The Genomics and Society Advisor will develop a research framework that explores genomics and its related ethical, economic, environmental, legal and social (GE3LS) aspects and will provide expert advice and support to researchers on social sciences and humanities research related to genomics. This work will help Genome BC achieve its goal of investing in applied and translational research projects that lead to societal benefits for BC and Canada.
To accomplish this integrative function, the candidate must have a fundamental understanding of genomics and related life sciences and specifically be trained to identify emerging challenges for the uptake, integration and benefit of research results. The candidate should ideally have training in the social sciences and genomics and have a demonstrated track record of being able to work with a multidisciplinary team assisting research projects in meeting beneficial end goals.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Assist research teams directly in developing the following:
· Viable translational research plans that will increase the impact of genomics in BC, which may include:
o Economic modeling and cost effectiveness studies to assess the social and economic benefits;
o Clinical validity and utility of medically derived technologies;
o An understanding of the regulatory risks;
o Market analysis (minimally market pull vs. technology push)
· Strategy for realizing the benefits of genomics research which may include the identification of key collaborators, commercialization partners and Scientific Advisory Board members;
· Programs and/or workshops that generate broader social science engagement in the identification of challenges to the societal integration of genomic discoveries.
Other responsibilities:
· Integrate social science research into Genome BC programs and projects;
· Develop a network of BC social science researchers with an interest in genomics;
· Work with Genome BC funded social scientists and humanists to establish workshops that bring together end user stakeholders;
· Support Genome BC-funded social sciences and humanities researchers;
· Promote Genome BC’s GE3LS Program and its social science research;
· Help to build interdisciplinary research teams that produce social and economic benefits;
· Maintain close working relationships with Genome Canada and other genome centres;
· Provide administrative functions and support for the Genomics, Society and Ethics Advisory Committee;
· Assess the impact of integrated GE3LS research on the major genomic milestones of research projects.
Educational requirements:
· Graduate degree (MSc or PhD) in a genomics related discipline
· Training or experience in the practical application of social science, humanities, or applied science-related disciplines.
Compensation: Competitive salary commensurate with experience
To Apply:
To receive consideration, a cover letter and résumé must be emailed to jobs@genomebc.ca by September 17, 2012. The position is available immediately.
We thank you for your interest in Genome BC. Only those candidates short-listed for interviews will be contacted.
Genome British Columbia is a catalyst for the life sciences cluster on Canada’s West Coast, and manages a cumulative portfolio of over $550M in research projects and science and technology platforms. Working with governments, academia and industry across sectors such as forestry, fisheries, agriculture, environment, bioenergy, mining and human health, the goal of the organization is to generate social and economic benefits for British Columbia and Canada. www.genomebc.ca