Research Assistant - Upper Great Lakes Métis Justice

Kwantlen Polytechnique University; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution is seeking a part-time Student Research Assistant to support research on Upper Great Lakes Métis Justice. The role includes data gathering, literature review, and project coordination, requiring strong communication and time-management skills. The assistant will work approximately 15 hours per week on a six-month contract with potential for extension. Anticipated hourly pay ranges from $25 to $32.

Qualifications

• Strong interest or experience in Upper Great Lakes Métis Justice.
• Excellent time-management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for writing reports.

Responsibilities

• Collect qualitative and basic quantitative data through interviews and surveys.
• Conduct literature reviews on topics relevant to the project.
• Support qualitative and basic quantitative data analysis.
• Draft research documentation and progress updates.
• Communicate respectfully and effectively with team members and partners.

Skills

Interest in Upper Great Lakes Métis Justice

Time-management skills

Interpersonal skills

Written and verbal communication

Education

Experience in academic or applied research

Job description

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

This role is supervised by Lisa Monchalin, Department of Criminology.

SUMMARY

The Student Research Assistant will support a research initiative focused on Upper Great Lakes Métis Justice, crime prevention, and miscarriages of justice affecting Indigenous peoples. The role includes assisting with data gathering and management, literature review and background research, data analysis, documentation and reporting, material development, project planning and coordination, communication and collaboration, presenting research findings, and supporting research-related events. This part-time position (approximately 15 hours per week) is offered on a six-month contract, with the possibility of extension.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Data Gathering and Management: Collect qualitative and basic quantitative data through interviews, surveys, and other sources, including historical records. Support participant recruitment, scheduling, and secure data entry. Organize, manage, and ethically store all data in accordance with Research Ethics Board (REB) requirements. Summarize and compile data with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Literature Review and Background Research: Conduct literature reviews on topics relevant to the project’s research questions. Summarize key findings and maintain organized reference lists using Zotero. Contribute to reports and publications.
• Data Analysis: Support qualitative analysis and basic quantitative analysis (e.g., descriptive statistics). Assist with interpreting results and preparing visual summaries such as tables, charts, and figures.
• Documentation, Reporting, and Material Development: Draft research documentation, progress updates, and written reports. Prepare summaries, manuscripts, conference materials, and data visualizations. Contribute to the development of publications, workshops, and presentation materials.
• Planning and Project Coordination: Attend regular research meetings, take notes, and track project timelines. Coordinate communication among project members, community partners, and the Indigenous Advisory Council. Assist with organizing team meetings and ensuring smooth collaboration across partners. Support the research lead in executing project logistics and deliverables, including administrative tasks.
• Communication and Collaboration: Communicate respectfully and effectively with the research team, students, employees, and community partners. Liaise with external partners as necessary to support project activities.
• Presenting Research: Develop and deliver presentations on the research topic to various audiences.
• Event Support (as required): Attend research-related events and provide logistical and organizational assistance. Help create a culturally-safe and welcoming environment for participants.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong interest or experience in Upper Great Lakes Métis Justice, crime prevention, and miscarriages of justice affecting Indigenous peoples.
• Ability to meet people for in-person interviews.
• Experience in academic or applied research through coursework or previous projects.
• Excellent time-management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities, manage competing demands, and maintain focus on project goals.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for writing reports and presenting findings.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and navigate obstacles.
• Commitment to confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
• Ability to travel (funded) to Sault Ste. Marie and Upper Great Lakes regions for research visits, interviews, and/or conferences.

SALARY INFORMATION

Anticipated hourly pay rate: $25 to $32/hour