Join Our Team: We're Hiring a Program Assistant

Exciting Opportunity: Program Assistant Position Now Open 

The Gairdner Foundation is seeking a versatile and proactive Program Assistant to facilitate the execution of impactful projects and operational tasks across our awards programs, communications and event initiatives—both online and in-person. This role involves managing diverse projects across multiple portfolios, requiring strong problem-solving, communication, organizational, and project-management skills.

The ideal candidate works well in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates agility in handling multiple responsibilities, and excels at adapting to shifting priorities. They bring a range of administrative and project management expertise applicable to awards nominations, finance, development, and event logistics.

If you thrive on taking initiative, excel at problem-solving, and enjoy collaborating within a close-knit team, this opportunity could be perfect for you. We are seeking someone enthusiastic and motivated to expand their skill set while contributing to Canada’s leading biomedical awards program.

About the Gairdner Foundation

The Gairdner Foundation was established in 1957 to recognize and reward international excellence in fundamental research that impacts human health. Annually, eight awards are given: five Canada Gairdner International Awards for biomedical research, one John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award, specifically for impact on global health issues, and two Canada Gairdner Momentum Awards, recognizing mid-career Canadian investigators.

The Gairdner Foundation believes in coming together to openly discuss science to better engage the public, understand the problems we face, and work together to find solutions. Since its founding, outreach events and programs have been developed to inspire the next generation of scientific innovators and foster an informed society. By engaging in outreach programs across Canada, The Gairdner Foundation acts as a convener with the public, policymakers and other stakeholders on the impact of science in our everyday lives.

Job specifics:

Awards and Nomination Program Support

• Development and coordination of outreach communications for nominations and competitions, including partner list creation.
• Database maintenance for nominations and competitions.
• Analyzing and presenting nomination data to enable well-informed decision-making.
  

Administrative and Accounting Support

• Administrative support for Board of Directors, sub-committees and adjudication committees.
• Scheduling, minutes, summaries and supporting material generation.
• Tracking and follow up on committee action items.
• Mail collection, cheque deposit and credit card reconciliation.
• Data management and file migration.
• Development of stewardship and fundraising documents, gift receipting.
  

Event and Logistics Coordination

• Planning and logistical support for Gairdner’s flagship events and programs including liaison with venues, catering, AV.
• Coordination of travel for speakers and laureates (50+ flights/yr) with travel agencies.
• Coordination of 15+ local and remote events (some international).
• Administrative support for annual gala including registration support and attendee management/communication.
• Impact tracking for Gairdner-run and -supported events.
  

Evolving priorities

• Provide ongoing support to the President & Scientific Director and team, coordinating projects that cut across various functions and departments.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• University or college degree with skills and/or experience in data analysis, event management, communications, and/or project management.
• Exceptional project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in program tracking and reporting.
• Experience and interest in science communication is considered an asset.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint (or Google Sheets/Slides).
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  

Desired Attributes:

• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage intricate projects from beginning to end.
• Eager and adaptable learner, quick to take on new tasks and navigate challenges, developing new skills along the way.
• Interest in science and eager about continuous learning.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills paired with a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
• Enthusiastic about optimizing processes and achieving operational excellence.
• Skilled at interpreting complex data and transforming it into actionable insights for decision-making and reporting.
  

What we offer:

• Hybrid work environment (2 days in person in Toronto office).
• Competitive salary and benefits package (salary range begins at $60,000, depending on experience and skill set).
• Organized and collaborative team environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a supportive team.
• Comprehensive on-boarding and ongoing support.

Please send your resume and cover letter to thegairdner@gairdner.org by Friday, January 10, 2025.