About Burnet Institute

Burnet Institute is a leading Australian medical research and public health organisation working to achieve better health for vulnerable communities in Australia and internationally. In Papua New Guinea, Burnet has been implementing health research and development programs for almost 20 years, with offices in Port Moresby, Kokopo and Western Province.

About the HEAL-PNG Project

HEAL-PNG is a three-year clinical trial funded by the NHMRC and the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (GACD). The project evaluates an innovative model of care that integrates non-communicable disease (NCD) screening and management within existing HIV and TB clinics in Morobe and East New Britain provinces. The goal is to improve NCD care through enhanced screening, patient education, adherence support via peer counselling, and simplified management protocols.

About the Role

The Research Health Extension Officer (HEO) will play a key role in establishing and implementing the HEAL-PNG trial across selected health facilities. Working closely with the Provincial Health Authority (PHA), facility staff, and the HEAL-PNG project team, the Research HEO will support study coordination, site set up, staff training, and data collection activities.

The position will require initiative, attention to detail, and the ability to build strong working relationships across multiple stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate study activities at participating facilities, enduring adherence to research protocols and ethical standards.
• Facilitate site onboarding, including assessments and staff training in NCD, TB and HIV management.
• Manage data collection, entry, and quality assurance in a confidential and timely manner.
• Maintain strong communication with facility and PHA staff, fostering collaboration and problem-solving.
• Support logistics for meetings, trainings, and field activities.
• Assist with procurement, stock control, and management of project materials and consumables.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Health Extension Officer qualification (Diploma + 1-year residency or Bachelors degree + 2-year residency).
• Strong understanding of TB, HIV and non-communicable diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, COPD).
• Competency in Microsoft Office applications and willingness to learn new software applications.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with fluency in English and Tok Pisin.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to work both independently and in a team.
• Ability to build rapport with health staff and community members.
• Willingness to be based in Kokopo, ENBP (no accommodation support provided) and work in field-based settings.
• Punctual, reliable, and proactive.

Desirable:

• Experience in clinical research or health program implementation.

Other Requirements

• Compliance with Burnet Institute’s occupational health, safety and safeguarding standards.
• Police Check and Working with Children Check (as applicable).

How to Apply

Please submit your cover letter and current CV outlining how your skills and experience align with the position to: [email protected]

Subject line: Clinical HEO Kokopo – HEAL-PNG