Join the Author’s Interest Project

The Author’s Interest Project is working with libraries and authors on a seed project to digitize important Australian out-of-print books to make them available for readers to borrow in digital form. This will create a new revenue stream for authors whilst simultaneously reclaiming lost culture for the public. We’re looking for a Research Assistant to help.

The successful candidate will work with authors and with staff at the Australian Society of Authors to ascertain the rights that are available, and with library partners around Australia to ascertain which books they are keen to add to their collections. We are looking for someone who:

  • has an eagle eye for detail;
  • works well independently;
  • is good with people (there will be lots of emails and phone calls);
  • is comfortable using spreadsheets to record and sort information;
  • is efficient with their time.

Prior research experience will be an advantage.

The role is on a casual basis and will pay $42.76 per hour + super.  Due to COVID, work will be carried out remotely and the successful candidate will need to supply their own phone, computer and internet access. The successful candidate must have the right to work in Australia. The work will involve liaising with libraries and authors all around the country, and the RA can be based in any state or territory. We expect the role to involve approx 2-3 days per week for 6-8 weeks (hours and duration flexible). This is a seed project, and there may be additional opportunities later in the year if a current application for external funding is successful.

If this is of interest please email ipria-info@unimelb.edu.au with your CV and a short statement (600 words max) explaining why you think you’re the right person for the job, with reference to the above criteria. Applications close at midnight on 17 May 2020.

For other questions, please contact A/Prof Rebecca Giblin (rebecca.giblin@unimelb.edu.au).