Expressions of Interest - Casual Research GP

Casual Part-Time Research GP position for National Digital Asthma Management Trial at University of Newcastle: Opportunity to work at home and casually

We are seeking a research GP to join our national research study team as a Part-Time Casual Research GP for a ground-breaking digital asthma management trial aimed to revolutionise asthma management in Australia. This exciting opportunity involves contributing to the evaluation of a centralised, national digital asthma care program in a randomised controlled tele-trial setting.

The Study: This study aims to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a centralised, national digital asthma care program compared to enhanced usual care. The program is designed to empower asthma and comorbidity self-management through a comprehensive digital solution developed under the DIGITAL TEAM initiative. The study is led by several esteemed institutions, including: The University of Newcastle; Asthma Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute and Hunter New England Local Health District.

Study Design:

• National Telehealth-based Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT)
• Total Participants: 1,200 (600 in the control arm, 600 in the intervention arm)
• Recruitment: Australia-wide via digital/print media advertisements and referrals.
• Research Team: Research officers conduct eligibility screening, consenting, and data collection; Clinical Trial Coordinator and Co-investigator team provide training, oversite and study management (ethics, data management); Asthma Australia educators provide intervention (telehealth assessments, asthma education, and initial drafting of digital asthma action plans); and the study GP support intervention delivery (sign off of asthma action plans, medication, and management prescription and advice).

Key Responsibilities of the Research GP:

• Monitoring Participants: Track intervention arm participants through an online study portal containing health information, referral details, and educator notes.
• Asthma Action Plans and Prescriptions: Generate and review asthma action plans, identify treatable traits, issue prescriptions, make referrals to specialists, and recommend in-person reviews or diagnostic tests on a case-by-case basis.
• Telehealth Assessments: Conduct assessments and provide consultations via telephone or telehealth. There will be no face-to-face consultations required.
• Remote Access: The GP will have remote access to the study administration portal which will provide access to telehealth software, and participant profiles.
• Training Provided: Comprehensive training will be offered to ensure familiarity with study protocols and systems.

Position Details:

• Employment Type: Part-time Casual Employee (~4-6 hours/week) for approximately 18 months
• Remuneration: $170/hour
• Work Environment: All assessments and participant interactions will be conducted remotely via telephone or teleconsultation.

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our Uni. 

About the Unit 

The School of Medicine and Public Health’s educational strengths include delivery of the JMP which comprises the sequential programs Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (BMedSc MD). The school also has a strong research focus and works closely with the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI). 

How to Apply:

If you are interested in this opportunity and would like to contribute to advancing asthma management through digital innovation, we invite you to submit your expression of interest. Please forward your CV and cover letter or direct any inquiries to:

• Kirsty Murray (Clinical Trial Coordinator)
• Email: kirsty.murray@newcastle.edu.au
• or
• DIGITAL TEAM
• Email: DIGITALTEAM@newcastle.edu.au

Closing Date Sunday 9th March 2025 11:59PM AEDST

We look forward to hearing from you and exploring the potential for collaboration in this impactful national trial.