Scientist

The Scientist is a key scientific leadership role in Public Health, Evidence and Innovation reporting to the Scientific Director of Public Health Evidence and Innovation. This position is responsible and accountable for leading and providing direction for applied research/evaluation initiatives in support of the vision, mission and business plan of Public Health, Evidence and Innovation. The Scientist is a contributor of major ideas and innovations that advance the evidence-informed decision-making goals of AHS. The Scientist provides expert scientific counsel to Directors, Medical Officers of Health, Research Associates and Assistants, Senior Analysts and Analysts (all HSAA Research II positions) as well as Program Planners and Facilitators in Public Health Evidence and Innovation, on all aspects related to scientific principles, frameworks, concepts, approaches, methods, analytics, and metrics that inform evidence-based decision making. This position establishes and maintains positive relationships with key local, provincial and national representatives and health care stakeholders including government departments and officials.

Participates in scientific societies, committees, and review groups at the local, provincial and national level. Through significant interaction with internal and external partners and participants, builds and maintains an effective network of contacts and resources aligned with Provincial Population and Public Health. Supports commitment to the vision for Public Health Evidence and Innovation through effective communication strategies. Serves as a role model in the support of the organizational culture and promotion of the Department’s vision, ensuring support of the vision, mission and goals of Alberta Health Services. Purposefully builds relationships across AHS portfolios and with external stakeholders (including content area experts, university faculty, and program leaders) to advance PPH research and innovation goals. Works collaboratively with other AHS programs and services in Provincial Population and Public Health to ensure that program initiatives are based on current evidence. Provides direct supervision of one or more senior analysts/analysts/research associates (HSAA Research II positions) as well as students/trainees in Research and Innovation. Provides direct supervision for grant funded research staff as needed. Participates in or facilitates recruitment, orientation and mentorship for new staff or students in the department. Provides leadership to program/project teams, acting as a resource, tracking progress and reporting.

A minimum of a PhD with an epidemiologic, cancer prevention, population health, health services or implementation science research focus. A minimum of 5 years applied research experience with a record of publications and grant acquisitions. Demonstrated experience communicating and networking in a complex, multidisciplinary professional environment. An academic appointment in a health-related faculty (adjunct). Can be obtained within first year of hire if not in place at time of recruitment.

Demonstrated experience with diplomacy, leadership, strategic thinking, organization, and the ability to build consensus, maintain objectives, and focus on achieving goals and supporting others in achieving goals while balancing competing priorities. Expertise in development and achieving funding success in applied research grants as well as successful conduct of these studies. Proven experience in the use of Implementation Science frameworks and methods. track record of understanding and conducting applied research in health care settings and an understanding of points of integration across health care delivery workflows. Deep knowledge and understanding of working across various sectors in public health care to enable effective implementation of innovative approaches. Adaptable written and verbal communication for both scientific, operational, executive and lay audiences. Experience in fostering collaboration and develop and sustain partnerships, with patient partners, health care providers, operational leaders, and researchers. Proven experience managing and mentoring professional staff including coaching, teaching, inspiring and building confidence in others.

As required.