Research Genetic Counsellor, Clinical Neurosciences

at  The University of Calgary

Description
The Department of Clinical Neurosciences in the Cumming School of Medicine invites applications for a Research Genetic Counsellor. This Full-time Fixed Term position will be part of a “National Genetic Counsellor” (NGC) project in collaboration with ALS Canada. The position is for an initial contract of approximately 6 months, with the possibility of extension for up to 2 years, or longer if additional funds become available.
This individual reports to the principal investigator in collaboration with the ALS Society of Canada.
The ALS/FTD genetic landscape has changed drastically in recent years with the (ongoing) discovery of many causative and risk genes for each/both and the field now has clinically actionable genes through participation in targeted clinical trials and available disease modifying treatment. For many Canadians, access to genetic testing is evolving but access to genetic counselling can vary between geographic regions.
this pilot NGC program is the first of its kind in the world. We are seeking a dynamic individual who will take on this new role with the desire to grow and expand towards a sustainable, world class program that helps vulnerable Canadians to understand what genetics means to their disease and identifies those who are eligible for potential life changing treatments and otherwise may not have been adequately supported.
Activities for this work take place at the Foothills Campus of the University of Calgary, at Heritage Medical Research Building (3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary). This will be as part of a research team with diverse expertise, including wet-bench research, bioinformatics, and clinical research. Individuals will be required to complete biosafety training and observe occupational health guidance.
A portion of the activities may take place at the ALS Clinic at South Health Campus for up to one day per week (4448 Front St SE, Calgary). The candidate should be able/willing to commute between sites if needed.

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

• Interaction with individuals affected by ALS, who are referred to the NGS via the principal investigator or ALS Canada. Delivery of primary responsibilities listed above
• Connect and integrate with the Canadian and global network of genetic counsellors and researchers
• Obtain and retain current knowledge of the evolving ALS/FTD genetics landscape
• Co-create and lead an education and engagement strategy for advancement of ALS/FTD genetic information across Canada in collaboration with ALS Canada
• Working alongside and in collaboration with ALS and FTD clinicians in Canada, including the CALS network (https://als.ca/research/canadian-als-research-network/)
• Co-develop a long-term strategy for sustainability of the role and potential expansion towards a program or team
• Maintain clear metrics of activities and impact for reporting back to the funder
• Analysis of data collected as part of the program for use in presentations and research publications

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS:

• Master’s of Science in Genetic Counseling required
• Canadian Association of Genetic Counselors and/or American Board of Genetic Counseling certification (or eligibility for certification at next examination) required
• Experience in patient and family education required
• Demonstrates expert verbal and written communication skills, including scientific writing
• Demonstrates strong computer skills in Office suite and database management. Expertise with programming and/or statistical analysis an asset.
• Knowledge of ALS, FTD or neurodegenerative diseases an asset
• Verbal and written fluency in French an asset
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently as well as with others in a team
• Excellent organizational skills
• Experience in strategy and program development an asset
• Compassionate and dynamic
  Application Deadline: February 17, 2025
  We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
  This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Specialist/Advisor Job Family, Phase 3.
  For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.

• Interaction with individuals affected by ALS, who are referred to the NGS via the principal investigator or ALS Canada. Delivery of primary responsibilities listed above
• Connect and integrate with the Canadian and global network of genetic counsellors and researchers
• Obtain and retain current knowledge of the evolving ALS/FTD genetics landscape
• Co-create and lead an education and engagement strategy for advancement of ALS/FTD genetic information across Canada in collaboration with ALS Canada
• Working alongside and in collaboration with ALS and FTD clinicians in Canada, including the CALS network (https://als.ca/research/canadian-als-research-network/)
• Co-develop a long-term strategy for sustainability of the role and potential expansion towards a program or team
• Maintain clear metrics of activities and impact for reporting back to the funder
• Analysis of data collected as part of the program for use in presentations and research publication