Genetic Counsellor in Vancouver

The casual genetic counsellor for the MAGERS (Metabolic and Genetic Explorations in Refractory Schizophrenia study) will provide coverage for the primary genetic counsellor for MAGERS. The casual genetic counsellor may provide coverage for the following tasks:

• Obtain three-generation pedigrees and other relevant clinical data, and provide psychiatric genetic counselling (PGC) to primary research participants and their participating family members;
• Design and execute the components of the project pertaining to the psychological impact of providing PGC, including delivery of genetic testing results;
• Aid in project direction and administrative oversight.

This position is based at UBC and may include provision of virtual genetic counselling appointments with research participants.

Organizational Status
The casual genetic counsellor will meet with the MAGERS project principal investigator, on an as needed basis while providing coverage for the primary genetic counsellor for the MAGERS project.

Work Performed
To gather complex clinical and genetic information required for the project, and to coordinate relevant research procedures. Major responsibilities include:

• Developing, preparing and completing patient case history files through interviews with patients and family members;
• Eliciting patient/family concerns and analyzing inheritance patterns;
• Summarizing data;
• Obtaining relevant medical records;
• Providing information to patients on particular disorders and assisting patients in coping with diagnosis;
• Maintaining follow-up contacts with patients and families;
• Maintaining awareness of developments in medical genetics relating to psychotic disorders;
• Conducting clinical interviews for research purposes;
• Assisting in development and implementation of new procedures;
• Conducting research related to genetic counseling in psychosis;
• Organizing and analyzing clinical research protocols and data;
• Providing information to community physicians;
• Performing other related duties.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
The principal investigator for the MAGERS project will occasionally review work. Errors would have very serious consequences, and accuracy is of utmost importance. Errors could involve: poor data collection and quality, loss of project support because of delay. Errors could result in incorrect conclusions being drawn about the origin and mechanisms of severe mental illnesses.

Supervision Received
The casual genetic counsellor will consult with the MAGERS Project PI on an as needed basis, with the frequency of meetings agreed upon between the casual genetic counsellor and the MAGERS Project PI. The casual genetic counsellor will provide occasional supervision when needed for other centre staff regarding financial and human resource matters.

Supervision Given
The casual genetic counsellor will need to provide supervision to staff and students as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree in Medical Genetics or Genetic Counselling and one year of internship in medical genetics, or the equivalent in training and experience. Board eligible for certification under the Canadian Association of Genetic Counselling or American Board of Genetic Counselling.

Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own. Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor of Science in psychology and/or research experience relevant to mental illness preferred. One year internship in medical genetics or the equivalent in training and experience. Expertise with Mac operating systems would be desirable. Ability to effectively use job-specific software at an advanced level. Ability to build and maintain relationships with clinical, technical, and student staff. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to stay organized and ability to prioritize and work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines. Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and priorities. Ability to be thorough, accurate, and have a high level of attention to detail. Ability to deal with a diversity of people in a calm, courteous, and effective manner. Effective supervisory skills. Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment.

The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty, and staff who are collectively committed to shaping a better world. Recognized as a leading employer in British Columbia and Canada, UBC supports inspired students, faculty and staff on their journey of discovery, and challenges them to realize their greatest potential. New ideas, changing infrastructure, innovative technology, and fresh approaches are opening up possibilities for the future of research, teaching, and work. Are you ready to embrace the future together?

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and/or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If you have any accommodation or accessibility needs during the job application process, please contact the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at workplace.accessibility@ubc.ca.