Reporting Structure:
Reports to the VP Communications and Education
Term:
Maternity Leave Replacement – April 25, 2016 - April 24, 2017
The Genomics and Society Advisor will be a driving force within the organization to better understand the societal context for genomic research. You will work collaboratively with Genome BC staff, particularly with the communications and sector development teams, to implement activities that lead to improved societal understanding, acceptance and uptake of translational research findings and the delivery of economic and social benefits to BC and beyond. To accomplish this integrative function, the candidate will ideally have a solid understanding of genomics and related life sciences and possess the requisite training and experience to identify challenges for the societal and sector translation, uptake, and integration of research results. The candidate should ideally have training in social sciences and humanities and /or equivalent work experience (e.g., public policy and public administration, sociology, business, economics, political science, journalism, ethics, etc.) and have a demonstrated track record of being able to work with diverse stakeholders to help advance science and technology into meaningful impact in society.
Duties and Responsibilities:
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Research and analyze issues from a provincial, national and international perspective;
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Enhance the organization’s ability to advance the integration of technology;
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Assess the potential, and develop strategies, for optimal involvement of social science and humanities research either as stand-alone projects or as part of other Genome BC projects.
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Assess opportunities for, and development of, value based approaches to evaluate ROI;
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Position Genome BC as a credible source of unbiased information for regulatory and policy decision makers, and the general public, providing written content for a public audience on key regional and national issues;
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Work with appropriate staff to develop additional engagement opportunities to broaden the public’s understanding of genomics;
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Support the development of meaningful research to further understand societal issues relating to the application of genomics technologies;
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Develop strategies to realize identified benefits from genomics research for BC. This may include the identification of key collaborators, commercialization partners and advisors to projects, Genome BC and user sectors;
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Continue to grow Genome BC’s network of social science researchers;
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Assist sector development staff and potential Genome BC research teams in the development of integrated projects, providing support to prospective social science and humanities researchers within these teams.
Other Responsibilities:
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Respond to emerging issues and opportunities as required;
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Promote Genome BC’s Genomics & Society Program and its social science and humanities research;
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Maintain close working relationships with Genome Canada and other Genome Centres;
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Provide administrative functions and support for the Genomics & Society Board Committee.