Research Assistant

Kwantlen Polytechnic University; Richmond; Hybrid; CAD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Canada invites applications for a Research Assistant to support the Clean Air Shelters for BC Wildland Firefighters project. The role reports to the Research Lead and may join an interdisciplinary team within the Wilson School of Design.

Note: This position is open to Wilson School of Design students only, with emphasis on design for extremes and climate adaptation. Applicants will develop materials, attend meetings, and present findings.

Qualifications

• Experience in academic or applied research via coursework or projects is desirable.
• Effective written and verbal communication to assist in writing reports.
• Excellent time management to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.
• Ability to adapt to changes and manage competing demands.
• Interest in unstructured research environments and developing leads.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate meetings; assist with logistics of the research project.
• Communicate with research team and external partners clearly and respectfully.
• Gather, organize, and analyze data from diverse sources; adhere to REB requirements.
• Develop detailed summaries and high-quality reports; contribute to workshops and presentations.
• Develop and deliver presentations about the research topic.
• Provide logistical and organizational support during research events.

Skills

Communication

Time management

Adaptability

Independent work

Confidentiality

Office software

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

TCPS-2 Core (2022) certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

SUMMARY

The Research Assistant will report to the Research Lead, typically a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and will help support, plan, and execute a research project or initiative. The Research Assistant may be part of an interdisciplinary research team.

Please note: This position is open to Wilson School of Design students only. The research assistants will support the faculty's project: Clean Air Shelters for BC Wildland Firefighters with a research theme: design for extremes and futures - climate crises and regional biosystems.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Assistant may be responsible for any or all of the following:

• Planning and Coordination: Attend and participate in regular meetings to assist with the organization and logistics of the research project. Work in partnership with the research
  lead to coordinate and execute the required tasks and deliverables, including both research and administrative duties.
• Communication: Engage in timely and respectful verbal and written communication with the research team and external partners, as applicable. Liaise and collaborate with
  students, employees, and community partners.
• Gathering Data: Collect, organize, and analyze research data from diverse sources. Summarize and compile data with precision, paying attention to detail and context, and
  the requirements of the Research Ethics Board (REB), where applicable.
• Developing Materials: Prepare detailed summaries and high-quality reports capturing key insights. Contribute to the preparation of materials, workshops and presentations.
• Presenting: Develop and provide presentations about the research topic.
• Supporting Events (as required): Attend and provide logistical and organizational support during related research events, ensuring a welcoming and productive environment for all.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Current or prior experience in academic or applied research, either through coursework or involvement in research projects, is desirable.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills to assist in writing research reports and communicating with team members.
• Excellent time management skills to meet project deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Proven ability to adapt to changes in the work environment, manage competing demands and dealing with change, delays or unexpected events, keeping constant sight of the
  overall objectives.
• Ability to think organically in an unstructured research environment, developing, and following new leads as the project grows.
• Strong interpersonal skills including teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative and overcome obstacles.
• Proven ability to recognize and maintain highest levels of confidentiality.
• Ability to maintain poise and professionalism in all types of situations.
• Ability to use basic office technologies (e.g., Microsoft Office suite) effectively and to adapt to new technologies that may be introduced.
• The ability to travel within the Lower Mainland area may be required.

Project Details:

Project title: Clean Air Shelters for BC Wildland Firefighters

Research theme: Design for extremes and futures: climate crises and regional biosystems

Research Assistants should have:

• Soft-prototyping interest, material testing and construction skills,
• Experience in literature reviews, systems mapping, research synthesis,
• Functional analysis/human factors and design (IDSN 2375, or DEPD 2331, or DETA 5210),
• An interest in extreme environments and design for climate adaptation
• TCPS-2 Core (2022) certificate

SALARY INFORMATION

Anticipated hourly pay rate: $18.25 - $22.10