Job Opportunity: Research Health Extension Officers (HEOs) – HEAL-PNG Project
Location: Morobe & East New Britain Provinces, Papua New Guinea
Duration: 2-year contract (Full-time)
Employer: Burnet Institute PNG

About the Burnet Institute

The Burnet Institute is an Australian medical research and public health organisation working to improve the health of vulnerable communities in Australia and globally. In Papua New Guinea, Burnet has operated for nearly two decades, partnering with provincial health authorities and local stakeholders to strengthen health systems, pilot innovations, and conduct research on priority health issues.

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 HEO will support study coordination, site setup, 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, ensuring 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 Bachelor’s + 2-year residency).

• Strong understanding of tuberculosis, HIV, and non-communicable diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, COPD).

• Competency in Microsoft Office 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 Morobe or East New Britain 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: Research HEO – HEAL-PNG (Morobe or ENB)

Applications close: 19th November 2025