HOW TO APPLY
Your application must include:
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a covering letter outlining your interest in the position
a statement of your suitability against each of the Key Selection Criteria
your current curriculum vitae containing names, postal addresses, telephone
numbers and where available, e-mail addresses and facsimile numbers of three
referees who will provide references when required, and
a completed Job Application Sheet.
Your application should also include the following details:
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Educational, professional and other relevant qualifications
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Relevant work experience
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If successful, period of notice required to join
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Details of service with other educational institutions, public authorities and military
service where applicable
RMIT’s Vocational Education and Training Sector (TAFE Sector) cannot employ persons who
have within the last three years received a Voluntary Departure Package from any Victorian
Public Sector Department or Government Agency.
The University also has restrictions relating to the re-employment of ex-staff members who had
left RMIT with Voluntary Departure Packages, redundancy or negotiated separation packages.
The nature of the restrictions depends on individual cases.
Do not send valuable original documents or exhibits with your application, as articles may be
lost in transit.
Written applications quoting the relevant reference number should be addressed to:
People Services
Diane McKellin
RMIT University
City Campus
P.O. Box 188
Carlton South VIC 3053
OR emailed to diane.mckellin@rmit.edu.au
Please endorse the envelope "APPLICATION - CONFIDENTIAL"
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
JOB APPLICATION SHEET
PLEASE COMPLETE ALL DETAILS LISTED BELOW AND EMAIL THIS SHEET
WITH APPLICATION TO diane.mckellin@rmit.edu.au or post to the address below.
Reference No
Position Title
Family Name
Title
Given Name(s)
Home Address
Postcode
State
Email Address
Telephone
Home
Work
Citizenship
Resident Status if not Australian
APPLICATIONS ADDRESSED TO
People Services
Diane McKellin
RMIT University
City Campus
PO Box 188
Carlton South Vic 3053
or email to diane.mckellin@rmit.edu.au
FOR PEOPLE SERVICES USE ONLY
HR system updated and acknowledgement sent
Date
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
Initial
POSITION DESCRIPTION
1.
POSITION SUMMARY
Position Title:
Research Assistant (Professor Language and
Culture, HOD LIS)
Position Number:
Time Fraction:
Tenure Status:
50004504
Full-Time
Contract 3 years – (March 2002 to December
2004)
Classification:
Research Assistant
Academic A (Research only)
Salary Range:
$33,741 - $45,766p.a.
Division:
Faculty/Group:
Higher Education
Faculty of Education, Language and Community
Services
Department of Language and International Studies
Based at the City campus and will be required to
work at other locations as directed.
School/Department/Branch:
Campus Location:
2.
THE UNIVERSITY
RMIT University is a multi-level dual sector education, training and research service
organisation, offering programs ranging from certificate level vocational programs
through tailored programs for industry and community clients, to post-graduate research
programs. The University has several companies which are responsible for commercial
activities relating to the University’s core functions.
The University’s goal is to create and sustain a distinctive world-class university at the
forefront of technical and professional education and real-world research, through
continuous improvement and with all staff committed to quality management processes.
As a world-class university, RMIT will be recognised as a leader in its teaching and
learning processes, research activities and community services.
Also see: www.rmit.edu.au
3.
THE FACULTY
Following a restructuring, the Faculty of Education, Language and Community Services
came into existence on January 1, 1997:
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
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To deliver innovative, client-focused teaching and learning programs for educators,
linguists and community service providers;
To make thesis teaching and learning programs accessible to all students in all
Faculties of the University;
To foster scholarship and programs of research and consultancy which, in particular,
strengthen the linkages between the activities of educators, trainers, linguists and
community service providers. Such programs should extend to the public policy and
international contexts of these inter-related activities.
The Faculty of Education, Language and Community Services came into existence on January
1, 1997, following a restructure of the university in late 1996.
Its mission is to provide world class educational products, services and research for:
 learning about learning
 learning about service
 learning about culture and
 learning about communication
The Faculty consists of 4 Higher Education departments: School and Early Childhood
Education; Industry, Professional and Adult Education; Justice and Youth Studies; and
Language and International Studies, as well as three VET departments; Language and
International Studies; Social and Community Services; and Access and Preparatory Studies.
The Faculty has approximately 158 staff, and there are approximately 1,750 equivalent full time
students units (EFTSU) enrolled in six Undergraduate Bachelor programs, four Graduate
Certificates, nine Graduate Diploma programs, two Masters by Coursework programs and
Masters by Research and PhD programs. Within the VET sector, there is the equivalent of 830
EFTSU enrolled in Certificates, Advanced Certificates, Diplomas and Associate Diplomas.
The Faculty focuses its program and research profile on education, e-education and training,
international and cross-cultural studies, interpreting and language education and global and
local community studies. It has also established strong international links through various
research and consultancy projects, and in particular through its co-sponsorship of the LERN
conference with institutions in Malaysia and Greece. The faculty is strongly committed to the
global-local@rmit research concentration.
4.
THE DEPARTMENT OF LANGUAGE AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
RMIT Language and International Studies, is an integrated, cross-sectoral Higher Education and
TAFE Department, whose teaching and research, from certificate to PhD level, focuses on the
field of globalisation and cultural diversity. The practical, vocationally oriented focus of the
Department’s teaching, research, entrepreneurial activities and community work finds
expressions in its thematic focus of research and innovation in globalisation and cultural
diversity, which is intended to benefit individual, national, transnational and humanitarian
social, environmental and economic interests.
The work of RMIT Language and International Studies involves explorations in the social and
cultural dimensions present in the interdependent and problematic processes of globalisation
and localisation. The Department’s major areas of teaching, research and entrepreneurial
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
interest are informed by considerations of globalisation, international education, immigration
and refugee policy, the multilingual knowledge economy, the sustainability of linguistic and
cultural diversity as well as teaching using action research, experiential learning, workintegrated learning strategies, prescribed learning experiences, flexible learning and new
learning technologies.
RMIT Language and International Studies is contributing to the global/local multilingual
knowledge economy by developing knowledge creating pedagogies and methodologies in:
 interpreting and translating;
 international studies;
 applied languages;
 language and cultural studies;
 teaching English as a global language.
RMIT Language and International Studies offers programs from Certificate level through
to PhD in the City campus. Current examples of programs include:
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Certificate III in Applied Language (VET)
Certificate IV in Applied Language (VET)
Diploma of Interpreting (VET)
Advanced Diploma of Interpreting and Translating (VET)
An extensive Context Curriculum Program and range of elective subjects in a range
of Asian and European languages (HE)
Bachelor of Arts (International Studies) (HE)
Master of Education by Research (HE)
Doctor of Philosophy (HE)
RMIT Language and International Studies is developing a three dimensional orientation to its
research and teaching:
1. enhancing students’ knowledge of languages and their functional capabilities for responding
to and engaging with the interdependent processes of globalisation and localisation.
2. developing students skills for undertaking cultural and linguistic analyses of the changing
nature of global/local relations and the knowledge needed to contribute to the development
of a civil global society, the sustainability of the world’s bio-linguistic diversity and the
fulfilment of human life.
3. improving students’ capacity for practical innovation through enhancing their knowledge
and skills to critically analyse and evaluate the changing relationship between the social,
cultural and linguistic fabric of global/local society and the global/local political economy.
Research Program in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity
The FELCS Research Project in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity is part of a universitywide research concentration focusing on the theme of globalisation and cultural diversity and
sponsored by the Faculty of Education, Language and Community Services on behalf of the
University. The operations of Research Project in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity are
administered by the Professor Language and Culture and the Head, Department of Language
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
and International Studies, on behalf of the Faculty. The focus of the Research Project in
Globalisation and Cultural Diversity is the examination of, and reflection upon, the increasing
interconnectedness of innovation, change and community life as a result of the complex
processes of localisation and globalisation. A key data source for this project will be the mass
media. The Research Project in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity will:
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5.
undertake research that address real world issues within an international and
local community context.
create practical solutions to the technological, design, cultural and
communication demands of globalisation.
proactively and productively build transnational relationships between Australia
and emerging centres of global significance.
adopt a cross-disciplinary approach to understanding the challenges, and
exploiting the opportunities of globalisation.
provide information, advice and consultancy services to policy makers interested
to providing a more secure, compassionate and broadly accepted rationale for
local/global connections.
provide a forum for analysing the role of the Australia’s culturally diverse,
diasporic communities in the processes of globalisation.
build explicit links between these research endeavours and the Faculty’s
teaching.
JOB SUMMARY
The Research Assistant will be appointed to directly contribute towards the research and
consultancy efforts of the Director of the RMIT Research Institute in Globalisation and Cultural
Diversity and Professor of Language and Culture within the Department of Language and
International Studies. Working on this area the Research Assistant will use her/his research
knowledge, skills and experience to undertake a range of tasks related to researching
globalisation and cultural diversity such as: the uses of international education and training; the
sustainability of linguistic diversity and the multilingual knowledge economy; White Australia
politics and Australian multiculturalism; globalisation and education, and Chinese-Australian
relations. This includes, but is not limited to the following: research project management; the
sourcing and writing of funding submissions; the retrieval and review of relevant research and
scholarly literature; the collection and analysis of research data, including from the mass media;
the compilation and maintenance of an evidentiary archive; and the drafting, proof reading and
editing of manuscripts, applications and newspaper articles. The Research Assistant will be
responsible for related administrative activities of the projects and for contributing to the
production of reports, conference and seminar papers and publications connected with the
project. N.B. This is a contract position funded under the University’s research investment
strategy and will not be renewed.
6.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
The Research Assistant will report to the Director of the RMIT Research Institute in
Globalisation and Cultural Diversity and Professor of Language and Culture.
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
7.
SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES
Position Accountabilities
7.1
The Research Assistant will be required to support or otherwise assist the Director of the
RMIT Research Institute in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity and Professor of
Language and Culture research in globalisation and cultural diversity.
7.2
The Research Assistant will work under the guidance and direction of the Director of the
RMIT Research Institute in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity and Professor of
Language and Culture and will be expected to demonstrate a significant capacity for
initiative, task-focus, follow-through and timely task completion.
7.3
The Research Assistant will be required to conduct research into globalisation and cultural
diversity under the supervision of the Director of the RMIT Research Institute in
Globalisation and Cultural Diversity and Professor of Language and Culture either as a
member of a team or, where appropriate, independently, and produce or contribute to the
production of reports, conference and seminar papers and publications from that research.
7.4
The Research Assistant will be required to:
 undertake literature searches using a range of data-bases;
 prepare reviews of literature in the field of globalisation and cultural diversity,
research methodology and relevant social and cultural theory;
 conduct the rigorous collection and analysis of data through face-to-face or
telephone interviews and from different media;
 contribute to the production of reports, working papers and publications, and
 prepare research proposals and tender applications..
7.5
The Research Assistant will be required to undertake the range of administrative functions
connected with research project management.
7.6
The Research Assistant will be required to use her/his knowledge of research
methodologies to develop appropriate research strategies, data collection and analysis
procedures and ethically appropriate research processes for research and consultancy
projects.
7.7
The Research Assistant will be required to use her/his theoretical and research expertise in
the field of globalisation and cultural diversity and/or in Chinese-Australian relations to
develop and implement relevant research and consultancy projects.
7.8
The Research Assistant will be required to use her/his advanced writing skills, including
editing and proof reading skills, to prepare draft publications and funding applications for
the Director of the RMIT Research Institute in Globalisation and Cultural Diversity and
Professor of Language and Culture for dissemination different kinds for a range of
audiences and make occasional contributions to presentations in relation to the project.
7.9
The Research Assistant will be required to organise, attend, contribute to and as
appropriate document meetings, forums, seminars, workshops and conferences associated
with the project of researching globalisation and cultural diversity.
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
7.10 The Research Assistant will provide support that enables RHD students to progress
towards the successful completion of theses related to this research project.
Corporate Accountabilities
7.11 To contribute to the strategic direction setting and policy making processes of the
University by participating in key Department, Faculty and/or University forums, such as
the Chinese-Australian Forum.
7.12 To comply with requirements of occupational health and safety (OH&S) legislation and
Government and University compliance and auditing responsibilities and implement
relevant procedures as developed by the University and the Faculty and undertake relevant
duties.
Personal Development
7.13
To assume joint responsibility for career development by actively participating in
various training activities (including those related to occupational health and safety,
quality assurance, and the use of new technology systems) and producing a work plan
that identify areas which will assist in personal and professional development. These
activities should be consistent with the Faculty and University’s Strategic Goals,
especially those relating to the designated research program.
7.
QUALIFICATIONS
Mandatory:
An undergraduate degree or its equivalent in an appropriate humanities or social science
discipline with relevant studies in globalisation and cultural diversity is the expected
minimum.
Preferred:
Enrolment and satisfactory progress towards a postgraduate research degree in a field
relevant to globalisation and cultural diversity; and/or training in teacher education and/or
experience as a teacher. Knowledge and insight into China, the Chinese diaspora and
Mandarin would be an advantage..
8.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA
8.1
Demonstrated theoretical and research expertise in socially critical and sociocultural
approaches to globalisation and cultural diversity including engagement with issues of
multilingual, multicultural societies.
8.2
Demonstrated knowledge of research methodologies appropriate for investigating issues
of globalisation and cultural diversity, including an understanding of relevant theories of
research; research design and strategy; data collection and analysis procedures; and
research ethics.
8.3
Demonstrated ability to prepare research proposals and tender applications; undertake
literature searches using a range of data-bases; prepare reviews of literature in the field
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
of globalisation and cultural diversity, research methodology and relevant social and
cultural theory; conduct the rigorous collection and analysis of data through face-to-face
or telephone interviews and from different media, and contribute to the production of
reports, working papers and publications.
8.4
Advanced writing skills, including the ability to draft, proof-read and edit text in various
media, and capability to write for a range of audiences including the mass media,
scholarly publications, conference papers, project reports, and professional or technical
documents.
8.5
Demonstrated high level of computer literacy including accurate work processing,
spreadsheet, database, electronic publishing, web-site creation and slide presentation
skills.
8.6
Highly developed project management and interpersonal skills including demonstrated
ability to work co-operatively as a member of a team.
8.7
Demonstrated ability to organise and prioritise work and complete tasks within tight
timelines.
8.8
Proven ability and level of research expertise to work independently with a minimum of
supervision, and qualifications and experience relevant to the specific accountabilities
descrided above.
9.
OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION
This is a contract position for three years maximum. The University reserves the right to leave
positions unfilled if suitable candidates are unable to be identified. Applicants should provide a
copy of their curriculum vitae, a separate document detailing their responses to the above key
selection criteria, and a range of contact details for three relevant people who have agreed to
act as referees.
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
Terms & Conditions
TERM
The appointee will be offered a three year contract appointment.
REMUNERATION
Remuneration of up to $45,766 per annum includes salary, superannuation, and leave loading
components. Options are available to salary sacrifice for a motor vehicle or additional
superannuation.
PROBATION
The terms and conditions of the University allow for all new academic appointees to serve a
probationary period of 1 year.
SUPERANNUATION
All academic staff appointed to positions of 12 months or longer, are required to contribute to
the Superannuation Scheme for Australian Universities (SSAU).
RELOCATION COSTS
Travel costs on appointment are met by the University and ‘reasonable’ removal expenses are
refunded according to scale.
Format of Applications
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae which addresses the Key Selection and
Professoriate Criteria, together with a covering letter outlining their interest in and suitability
for the position. The curriculum vitae should also include the following information:
1. Full name
2. Private address
3. Telephone, mobile and fax numbers (private and business)
4. Email address
5. Education (with dates)
6. Academic and professional qualifications
7. Membership of professional associations and institutions
8. Awards of recognition or merit
9. Current appointment and responsibilities
10. Previous employment history clearly indicating professional, academic, managerial and
research experience
11. Publications, distinguishing between monographs, chapters in monographs, refereed
publications, and others Public lectures and conference addresses over the last five years, or
other professional or academic achievements not included above
12. Details of availability for commencement
13. Names, addresses, email and telephone/fax numbers of three persons academically or
professionally associated with the candidate prepared to provide written referee reports to
the University
Selection will be based primarily on qualifications and the Key Selection Criteria outlined in
this Position Description. To maximise the effectiveness of applications candidates are advised
to ensure that they address these criteria specifically.
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)
Further Information
Further information about the position can be obtained from:
Professor Michael Singh
Professor of Language and Culture and
Head Department of Language and International Studies
Telephone: (03) 9925 1921
Fax:
(03) 9925 4404
Email:
michael.singh@rmit.edu.au
Research Assistant [Singh, LIS)