JOBS - Centre for Research on Social Inclusion - Macquarie University, 2 x Part-Time Research Assistants (Closes Thursday 8th February)

Expressions of interest are sought from suitably qualified candidates for two research assistant positions in the Centre for Research on Social Inclusion at Macquarie University.

* Position 1: Project Manager / Research AssistantProject: ‘Community Harmony’ Toolkit for Local Government.

We seek a research assistant for a project which involves the development of anti-racism and ‘community harmony’ / ‘social cohesion’ projects models for local government. The research assistant will be primarily involved with researching international initiatives, collating and refining information,report writing and preparation of material for an online toolkit. The position will also involve some travel to visit council stakeholders in other states.

Skills: Good written and spoken communication skills; computer skills; experience as a research assistant or a higher degree such as an MA or progress towards a PhD; or experience working in the local government or community sector.

Hours: 2 days per week for 9 months. Starting late February.

* Position 2: Research AssociateProject: Muslim Communities and Local Government.

We seek a research assistant to work on a large project researching how local government (and local community organisations) can better engage Muslim communities. It will involve research into a range of issues, including how to improve consultation, dialogue, and communication between local government and local Muslim communities; improving political and civic participation among Muslim communities; and how to foster positive inter-ethnic/interfaith relations between Muslims and non-Muslims at the local neighbourhood level. Issues such as youth, gender, ethnicity and other community differentials will be taken into account.

Skills: We seek an experienced researcher, preferably someone with an MA or progress towards a PhD (or recently submitted). However we would also welcome applications from those with experience in the community sector, applicants who have experience working with Muslim communities. Arabic language skills are highly desirable, but not essential. The position will involve extensive interviews with a range of Muslim community members from a variety of ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Research will be concentrated mostly in Sydney but will involve some research in Melbourne and possibly other states.

Hours: 3 days per week for 9 months. Starting late February.

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Note: There is a possibility to combine the two positions into one full-time position for a period of 9 months. If you are interested in this option,please state so in your application. Salary will be in the range of $30 to $35 per hour depending on skills and qualifications.

Enquires should be directed to Dr Amanda Wise: Amanda.wise@scmp.mq.edu.au or ph: (02) 9850-8835

Applicants should email a CV and covering letter to Amanda.wise@scmp.mq.edu.au by Thursday 8th February 2007.