Scientific Director - Geriatric Division Research

As Canada’s leading mental illness research facility, CAMH’s Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute (CFMHRI) is home to scientists, staff and research trainees conducting leading research to improve the understanding of the brain and the causes, biomarkers and cures for mental illness as well as research to advance the prevention and treatment for mental illness and addictions across the lifespan. With a collaborative inter-disciplinary environment that spans clinical, biological, social and epidemiological research, the CFMHRI supports a workplace that embraces diversity, encourages teamwork and complies with all applicable regulatory and legislative requirements. The Centre for Older Adult Mental Health Research (COAMH) program aims to support the aging population through research in three primary thematic areas including serious and complex mental health conditions (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, treatment refractory mood and anxiety); mental health and cognition; and population-based mental health for older adults. The research includes a variety of methodological approaches including clinical trials (pharmacological, neurostimulation, psychosocial), observational studies and analysis of secondary data, population-health and implementation science. Reporting to the Institute Co-Directors of the Human Lifespan Institute, the Scientific Director will lead the Centre and shape and expand its vision for advancing scientific discovery, innovation, and system change in the field of older adult mental health.

Experience:

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Responsibilities

As a research leader, the Scientific Director will provide strategic research and administrative leadership, promoting and facilitating leading-edge research. By building, supporting and inspiring a community of scientists, the Scientific Director will enhance capacity, opportunities, strong partnerships, and knowledge translation in alignment with the mission and objectives of the Centre, the CFMHRI, and CAMH. The role will foster diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of work through strong communication and interpersonal skills. As a scientist, the Scientific Director will also maintain a robust program of independent research. The role will be responsible for:

• Providing strategic, scientific and operational leadership to advance the Centre's mission, priorities and long-term development and sustainability
• Leading a team of scientists while shaping a vision for the Centre that includes building and growing infrastructure in partnership with the Research Operations Manager as a dyadic leader
• Providing mentorship oversight and support to scientists through regular engagement opportunities
• Developing process and structures, such as shared participant recruitment models, data platforms, cost-sharing mechanisms
• Providing day-to-day oversight of scientists within the Centre including reviewing and approval grant and research ethics submissions, scientist performance reviews and other delegated leadership responsibilities
• Supporting and encouraging the development of collaborative grant proposals and strategic partnerships
• Facilitating teamwork and collaboration within and across Centres and Institutes and external academic, healthcare and community partners
• Supporting and advancing long-term sustainability and accountability
• Collaborating with the CAMH Foundation on strategic fundraising opportunities
• Advancing the Human Lifespan Institute via collaborations and partnerships to advance CAMH’s strategic plan This full-time, permanent position is located at 80 Workman Way

Qualifications

The successful candidate for this role will be an internationally-respected leader with a record of achievements leading impactful interdisciplinary and collaborative research in older adult mental health. They will have a PhD and/or MD and be eligible for appointment at the University of Toronto at the rank of Associate or full Professor. In addition to well-honed leadership abilities, consistent success in securing funding from external peer-reviewed agencies to support a program of independent research is essential, as is an exceptional record of international-level scientific outputs. The ideal candidate will be dedicated to mentoring and supporting the professional development of emerging scientists, staff, and trainees. They will also show a substantial commitment to both their immediate and their wider scientific communities through service activities.

Minimum: 8 years of independent research experience, including 2 or more years in a Senior Scientist role and/or other scientific leadership experience.

Research Expertise: Must have an unqualified track record of excellence and achievements in all aspects of independent research performance, including exceptional publication record, grant funding success, recognition in the form of major national or international prizes, mentorship, research training and teaching, collaboration, and academic and administrative service.

Leadership Experience: Proven leadership experience in managing large research teams, research programs, or research centers related to mental health.

Clinical Experience (Optional): Clinical qualifications, such as a license to practice psychology or psychiatry, can be valuable in understanding the clinical aspects of mental health research.

Strategic Vision: The ability to develop and articulate a strategic vision for the Research Centre and align research priorities with the mission of the wider Research Institute and hospital.

Ethics and Compliance Expertise: A deep understanding of research ethics and regulatory compliance, particularly in the context of research involving human participants.

Interdisciplinary Experience: Experience collaborating with researchers from diverse disciplines is essential.

Management Skills: Strong managerial and administrative skills are essential for effective oversight in a complex environment with multiple competing priorities.

Advocacy and Communication: Excellent communication and advocacy skills to represent the institution, communicate research findings to various audiences, and advocate for mental health research.

Networking: Strong networking skills to build collaborations with other research institutions, healthcare providers, community organizations, and stakeholders in the mental health field.

Problem-Solving Skills: Proficiency in problem-solving and conflict resolution to address challenges and obstacles that may arise in research programs.

Continuing Education: A commitment to staying current with advancements in mental health research, research methodologies, and ethical standards through ongoing professional development and education.

Executive Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary is competitive and based on experience, with a hiring range of $161,730.61 – $202,163.26 per year.  (based on leadership experience, qualifications, and organizational needs)
• Full Salary Range: $161,730.61 – $242,595.91 per year (reflecting progressive growth and leadership tenure within the organization)

CAMH Advantage: Includes participation in HOOPP defined benefit pension plan, extended health and wellness benefits, and opportunities to shape healthcare innovation at a systems level

CAMH is a fully affiliated teaching hospital and research institute of the University of Toronto. As a CAMH employee, you will contribute to our mission by supporting teaching, research, and clinical care across the hospital.

CAMH is dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment is to foster a workplace, teaching, and learning environment that is inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination or harassment.

CAMH strongly encourages applications from candidates who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples; Black and other racialized communities; LGBTQ2S+ communities; women; and people with disabilities, including those with lived experience of mental health and substance use challenges.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Thank you to all who apply; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. If you require accommodations during the application or recruitment process, please let us know.

 

Through its core values of Courage, Respect and Excellence, CAMH is implementing its Strategic Plan: Connected CAMH, to transform lives, ignite innovation and discovery, revolutionize education and drive social change. CAMH is more than a hospital, it is a cause. CAMH is on a mission to change the way society thinks about and responds to mental illness. They aim to eliminate prejudice and discrimination and shape a world where mental illness is central to our healthcare system – a world where Mental Health is Health.

To learn more about CAMH, please visit their website at: www.camh.ca.

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