The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and one of the world’s major research universities.  We employ over 5400 academic and professional staff to support the success of life-changing teaching and research. 

We have an exciting opportunity for two allied health clinicians to join the ESPRESSo research team on a causal contract. 

The Enhancing Spontaneous Recovery after Stroke (ESPRESSo) study is a randomised controlled trial that will test a novel treatment approach for hand and arm recovery after stroke. This treatment approach has been developed by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, and we are the first group to trial it here in Aotearoa New Zealand.

About the Research

Other members of the research team will recruit patients with upper limb weakness at Auckland City Hospital within 7 days of stroke. Participants randomised to the treatment group will spend this time using an immersive video game based virtual reality platform. This platform allows participants to embody and move virtual creatures (dolphins, hummingbirds) on video screen, through the spontaneous natural movement of the affected arm and hand in a challenging and playful environment. Participants in the control group will spend this time on usual care upper limb therapies. Participants will continue the intervention with University of Auckland research therapists and clinical exercise physiologists at the Newmarket Campus if they leave the hospital before completing the three-week therapy programme.

The Opportunity

As one of two University Research Therapists, you will work closely with the Hospital research therapists and the wider research team to deliver upper limb therapy sessions at Newmarket.

This role provides an opportunity to develop your research experience and skills, working with cutting-edge technology and a world-class team of international experts. As a casual role, you will have flexibility in the days and hours that you work.

Skills and Experience

To be considered for this role, you will have:

• A current New Zealand registration as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist
• Prior experience in stroke rehabilitation research is not essential but preferred
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Excellent clinical skills in upper limb rehabilitation after stroke
• Understands the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and displays cultural responsiveness and committed to delivering culturally safe practices
• Appreciates insights, values and ideas of all individuals and works effectively with these differences      

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of Friday 16th October 2020 to be considered. Please include your CV and a cover letter outlining what strengths you would bring to this role.

In accordance with our commitment to equitable recruitment, the University welcomes applications from all suitably qualified and experienced candidates. In response to COVID-19 the New Zealand Government has imposed a travel ban and are currently only allowing New Zealand Residents, Citizens and visa holders meeting a strict exception policy  to enter the country, all of whom must currently enter Government approved quarantine for two weeks on arrival.  

It is uncertain when these border restrictions will change, and this may impact the degree to which an off-shore candidate can engage in the interview process; or be available to commence in a new position. For more information and updates on the border restrictions visit the Immigration New Zealand website or the New Zealand Government’s official Covid-19 website.

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQITakatāpui+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other equity issues go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz.