<Knowledge Exchange Associate>

Department:	Department of Health Studies and Gerontology	Effective Date:	March, 2011
Grade:	USG 8	Reports to:	Dr. John Hirdes

General Accountability

The Knowledge Exchange Associate (KEA) reports to Dr. John Hirdes, Ontario Home Care Research and Knowledge Exchange Chair. The KEA develops and coordinates knowledge exchange activities related to the field of Home and Community Care in Ontario.

Nature and Scope

The Ontario Home Care Research and Knowledge Exchange Chair was created to ensure a permanent commitment to advancing home care research to inform and improve the quality of home care services and inform home care policy. It is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-term Care for a 5 year period beginning July 1, 2007 and ending March 31, 2012, and includes funding for a researcher and a Knowledge Exchange Associate. The Chair reports to the Ontario Home Care Research and Knowledge Exchange Steering Committee that consists of representatives form provincial stakeholder organizations, ministry officials, and policy makers in the field of Ontario home and community care. The mandate of the Chair is to identify and address research needs in the field of home and community care in Ontario, and support knowledge-exchange activities that promote the uptake of research evidence in informing policy and practice.

The Knowledge Exchange Associate’s primary role is to disseminate new knowledge in an appropriate format to support clinical and policy decision-making in the field of home care.

Challenges of the position

This position requires an advanced understanding of the principles and application of knowledge translation and exchange, excellent verbal and written communications skills, organizational and time management skills, and an ability to think critically and analytically. This position requires exceptional interpersonal and relationship building skills to effectively engage staff and external stakeholders (including researchers and high-level decision-makers and ministry officials) in knowledge exchange opportunities.

Statistical Data

Specific Accountabilities

Works closely with the Dr. John Hirdes and Ontario Home Care Research and Knowledge Exchange Steering Committee members to develop and promote knowledge exchange activities, including an annual research symposium.
Develop and deliver knowledge products including, but not limited to, a dedicated ‘home care’ website, knowledge synthesis, executive summaries, conference presentations, and webinars.
Develop, deliver, and evaluate targeted educational programs for stakeholders.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders in the field of Ontario home and community care.

Working Conditions

This position involves significant travel across Ontario