Strategic studentship opportunity – casual position
Start date: November 01, 2025
Application deadline: October 23, 2025
Supervisor: Dr. Alana Ireland
Faculty: Faculty of Health Disciplines
Overview
The general aim of this strategic development project is to as establish a foundation, as well as the partnerships and collaborations, for a transdisciplinary research initiative that critically examines how parents navigate weight-centric narratives in order to support their children’s health and well-being.
Specific activities include, but are not limited to
- Conduct a literature and policy scan
- Identify and initiate connections with community organizations and parent groups
- Explore further transdisciplinary collaborations
- Contribute to draft grant proposal
We will support the student to lead the literature review and environmental scan, coordinate community engagement efforts, and commensurate with skill-level, contribute to drafting a grant. They will gain knowledge of the project’s subject matter, and develop skills in transdisciplinary collaboration, community-engaged scholarship, and grant development.
The successful candidate will work with, and directly report to, Dr. Alana Ireland and Dr. Caroline Buzanko at Athabasca University. Dr. Alana Ireland and Dr. Caroline Buzanko will provide adequate training for the skills required.
Qualifications
- Preference for some graduate training in obesity, eating disorders, and Health at Every Size
- Undergraduate degree required
- Ability to work both collaboratively and independently
- Strong writing skills
- Interest and/or experience in conducting literature reviews
- Interest in a non-weight-centric approach
- Experience working with relevant software (e.g., Microsoft Office, video-conferencing, qualitative software)
The position is based virtually.
How to apply
Qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their application by email to Dr. Alana Ireland at aireland@athabascau.ca. Applications should include (as a single PDF file) a brief cover letter that summarizes your skills, interests and experience; a current resume or curriculum vitae; an unofficial copy of your transcript; and the contact information for 1-2 references.
Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a suitable candidate is found. All applicants are thanked for their interest in this position; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Athabasca University and the researchers are committed and seek to support equity in employment and research opportunities. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous people, people of colour, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ people, women, and other historically marginalized groups. Applicants are welcome, but not required, to self-identify in their letter of application.
For more information on this Research Assistant Opportunity, please contact Alana Ireland, PhD at the coordinates below, on or before October 23, 2025. Applications will be accepted until (23/10/2025) or until a suitable candidate is found.
Alana Ireland, PhD
Assistantship