Research Assistant - Indigenous Health Project

Student Research Coordinator (Term position)

Indigenous Health Program

Regina Campus

The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) allows students of all nations to learn in an environment of First Nations cultures and values. The University continues to uphold its mission of enhancing the quality of life and preserving, protecting, and interpreting First Nations people's history, language, culture, and artistic heritage. FNUniv is a unique learning place specializing in Indigenous knowledge and providing post-secondary education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students within a culturally supportive environment.  

The First Nations University of Canada is a federated college of the University of Regina, and its academic programs are accredited through that institution. 

FNUniv’s values include wisdom, respect, humility, sharing, harmony, beauty, strength, and spirituality. 

First Nations University of Canada is seeking a part-time research coordinator to work on a project entitled: Empowering Indigenous Students: A Community-based Approach to Enhancing Mental Health Knowledge and Efficacy. It centers on the critical need for mental health education programs that are not only culturally sensitive but also driven by the very stakeholders they aim to empower - our students. Informed and guided by the wisdom of Elders and knowledge keepers, this initiative seeks to transcend the deficit-oriented connotations associated with the term "literacy" in mental health literacy.

Duties:

Under the direction of Dr. Norma Dunning, the Research Coordinator will be responsibilities for duties as follows:

• Coordinate and schedule meetings, activities, and workshops involving the advisory committee, project team, and stakeholders.
• Liaise with Indigenous student stakeholders, elders, and knowledge keepers to support project collaboration and ensure cultural relevance.
• Assist in the development of culturally sensitive educational materials for the mental health literacy program.
• Conduct comprehensive literature reviews to inform the project framework and language.
• Prepare and maintain financial documentation, budgetary reports, and honoraria tracking for the advisory committee.
• Contribute to the preparation of ethics applications, ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines.
• Assist in organizing and facilitating brainstorming sessions, self-assessments, and idea generation activities with stakeholders.
• Maintain detailed records of meeting agendas, decisions, and outcomes.
• Support the primary investigator and research team to ensure project milestones are achieved.

Qualifications:

• Registered student of First Nations University of Canada
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous cultural values and practices, particularly within mental health contexts.

• Knowledge of research ethics processes, including applications through systems such as Converis, is an asset.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, including experience coordinating activities with multiple stakeholders (e.g., advisory committees, researchers, and community members).
• Proficiency in Word and strong written communication skills.
• Experience conducting literature searches and comprehensive literature reviews.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team, including elders, knowledge keepers, students, and other community stakeholders.
• Highly developed time management and multitasking abilities.
• Capacity to work independently while maintaining open and respectful communication with the project team.
• Previous experience with community-based research or co-creation processes is an asset.
• Experience with Zoom and/or Teams and other video conferencing software.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online at www.fnuniv.ca.  

Closing Date: December 16, 2024

We would like to thank you for your interest and to all those that applied; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The First Nations University of Canada relies on section 48 of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code to give preference in employment for this position.  Please indicate your status in your cover letter or resume.

Questions regarding this opportunity can be directed by email at humanresources@firstnationsuniversity.ca We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position.  However, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.