Knowledge mobilisation is about ways of sharing knowledge that can lead to impact (outputs, uses and outcomes), such as dissemination, engagement, co-production, commercialisation and so on. Knowledge mobilisation experts are those who know how to use those approaches to make change happen. In Canada, posts are regularly advertised for knowledge mobilisers. Drawing on several Canadian adverts, the following generic job description for a knowledge mobiliser has been drafted for adaption to your situation. NB It is unlikely that one person would have all these attributes.
Qualifications
Usually an undergraduate or master’s or PhD degree in health sciences, social sciences, health research, science communication, health policy, psychology, management or any field related to topic area. Alternatively, extensive applied experience in a profession, service delivery/policymaking organisation or as a service user in health or social care.
Knowledge
- An excellent understanding of knowledge mobilisation approaches e.g. networking, product development, engagement activities, dissemination to professionals and the public, commercialisation, co-production, evaluation and so on
- Knowledge of the relevant networks of the organisation(s) or area(s) post holder will be connecting with and awareness of the key influencers
- Experiential knowledge of key organisations
- An appreciation of knowledge mobilisation theories and how they can be operationalised
Skills: proven track record in
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders
- Conducting projects in cooperation and consultation with community members and partners
- Developing creative knowledge products such as infographics, newsletters, fact-sheets, lay summaries, presentations and/or video stories
- Designing, organising, facilitating and evaluating knowledge sharing events such as stakeholder meetings, webinars, community forums and other engagement activities
- Managing web content and social media accounts
- Interpreting and identifying key results from research evidence and succinctly summarise findings in plain language
- Writing and verbal communication skills in both plain language and academic style
- Negotiation, persuasion, managing conflict, reconciling agendas, finding common ground.
- Presentation, teaching, group facilitation.
- Evaluation of knowledge mobilisation processes and outcomes
- Creativity informed by knowledge of local barriers and facilitators to knowledge mobilisation
- Change facilitation projects
- Project management
Experience
- Relevant experience of the field as a volunteer or employee.
Competencies: ability to
- Apply sound judgment and make decisions, often on short notice.
- Be flexible to changes in project direction and pitch in when extra support is needed
- Prioritize, multi-task and organize work effectively and under pressure
- Being positive, tactful and diplomatic when working with others
- Working independently and in a team of diverse stakeholders
- Ability to challenge and/or to reconcile differences
Other
- Willingness to travel.