Public Health Statistics jobs

The Opportunity

We now have an exciting opportunity for a research assistant to join the Global Disease Modelling team to conduct modelling analysis, data analysis, application of machine learning algorithms, and the preparation and analysis of model inputs, analysis of model outputs, data analysis, implementation of workflows and dissemination of results, including assisting writing papers for peer reviewed publication and scientific reports, and presenting results. This role will also provide support for engagements with national and international collaborators.

In this dynamic role, you will:

• Leverage established mathematical models, such as Open Malaria, to conduct and support simulation studies that inform public health decision making.
• Contribute to adapting and enhancing existing models to address specific epidemiological or operational questions.
• Contribute to communications with our stakeholders on new malaria interventions.

The GDM team is led by Melissa Penny, Professor and the inaugural Fiona Stanley Chair in Child Health Research at the University of Western Australia and The Kids Research Institute Australia. This interdisciplinary team of researchers develop and use mathematical models to understand parasitic and viral diseases and inform public health decision-making.

The team employs data analysis, modelling and simulation, to examine complex interactions between infectious diseases, individuals, and populations, medical interventions, and health systems. They use these models to understand disease progression, pathogenesis, and disease transmission, and to estimate impacts of existing and novel health interventions in individuals or at the population level, with the goal to inform decisions during product development through to implementation and policy recommendations.

Based within our modern offices at Perth Children’s Hospital, this role will be offered on a full-time basis for a 2-year period.

About You

The successful candidate will hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area (e.g. epidemiology, statistics, public health, biology). Along with this, you will also possess the following skills (please refer to the job description for full details):

• Strong computer, organisational, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in mathematical and/or statistical modelling.
• Experience with R, R studio, Python or other equivalent software.
• Understanding and practical experience in implementation, tuning, and evaluation of Machine Learning algorithms.
• Demonstrated capacity to liaise across multiple stakeholders and working effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit, support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we:

• Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.
• Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.
• Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.
• Partner with communities to strength cultural awareness and belonging.
• Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.
• We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.

Alongside our inclusive culture, you’ll enjoy:

• Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.
• Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.
• Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.
• Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.
• Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.

How to apply

If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application.

Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section.

Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contactrecruitment@thekids.org.au.

#LI-DNI

Contact Name: Julian Heng

Contact Email: julian.heng@thekids.org.au

Closing Date: 04/10/2026 - We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.