Knowledge Synthesis Specialist

**JR100238**

**Knowledge Synthesis Specialist**

**The Role**:
The Knowledge Synthesis Specialist will lead the development of provincial best practice/guidance documents and scientific briefs on various public health issues and public health measures, as well as provide expertise that reflects current scientific evidence in response to requests for advice on new, emerging and urgent issues that are often complex.

**Key Responsibilities-**
- Leads the development of best practices/guidance documents and scientific briefs in response to a range of complex public health issues through literature review, critical appraisal and synthesis of current scientific evidence.
- Leads the end-to-end project management for the development of knowledge products, including developing milestones and timelines, ensuring timelines are met, resolving any issues that may delay the project.
- Consults with internal and external stakeholders on the development of provincial public health resources, including best practice/guidance documents and scientific briefs.
- Coordinates with internal PHO Communications and Product Development and Publishing Teams for the development and dissemination of knowledge products.
- Supports the development of communications to promote the work of the Unit.
- Leads the review of current products and identifies the need for updates based on developments in research and evidence.
- Leads the development of responses to inquiries from committee members, co-chairs and/or other stakeholders related to the work of the Unit.
- Develops and forges relationships with stakeholders and organizations that have a broad impact.
- Participates in briefings with chairs of internal steering committees.
- Keeps apprised of the latest research and developments related to the work of the Unit.
- Performs other duties as assigned.

**Knowledge and Skills-**
- Effective research and analytical skills to critically appraise and synthesize evidence.
- Skill and expertise in scientific writing for the development of knowledge products, including best practice/guidance documents and scientific briefs.
- Skill and ability to work in a matrix management structure and within cross disciplinary teams.
- Skill and ability to approach and manage assignments in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective interpersonal, teamwork and relationship building skills to work collaboratively with internal and external colleagues.
- Office computer skills with proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Reference Manager; experience with SharePoint an asset.
- Knowledge of the public health landscape in Canada and Ontario (e.g., key issues, roles and responsibilities of different levels of government, departments, ministries and agencies, as well as roles of other organizations).

**Education and Experience-**
- Master’s degree in public health, social sciences or related discipline.
- At least 5 years of experience supporting individuals or groups of scientists in an academic, research institute, government or related setting.

**Attributes and Competencies-**
- Oral communication skills to effectively deliver presentations and/or lead briefings.
- Scientific writing skills to synthesize technical literature findings and write detailed best practice/guidance documents and scientific briefs.
- Listening skills to understand stakeholder needs/feedback.
- Collaboration skills to develop provincial level resources with internal PHO colleagues and external stakeholders.
- Interpersonal, relationship building and diplomacy skills in order to interact effectively with internal colleagues, committee members and other stakeholders at all levels.
- Provides advice, support and expertise to ensure clients are provided with scientific evidence and advice on a range of public health issues that are urgent and often complex.
- Effective client service and relationship building skills to provide support to committee members and co-chairs, and to maintain effective linkages within PHO and with external stakeholders.
- Contributes expertise to ensure resources meet stakeholder needs.
- Ensures sensitivity to stakeholder issues that may have political implications or provincial risks.
- Synthesizes a wide range of scientific evidence into advice and guidance documents involving emerging issues, complex inquiries.
- Judgement and problem-solving are required in all aspects of the position, for example monitoring and managing projects, addressing input and feedback on products from multiple reviewers.
- Ensures timelines are met, resolving any issues that may delay a project.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 10 months

**Salary**: $82,525.00-$115,540.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Toronto, ON M5G 1V2