Research assistant – casual positions

Start date: Will commence when a suitable candidate is found

Application deadline: Will remain until filled

Supervisor: Dr. Margaret Edwards

Faculty: Faculty of Health Disciplines

Overview

These Graduate Research Assistant positions support a research program examining nursing education in the current technology context. The project addresses the disparity between the rapid integration of AI in healthcare and its slow adoption within nursing curricula. Rather than examining AI as a technology, this research focuses on best practices for developing AI competency and literacy among nurse educators The study utilizes a systematic literature review and surveys of Faculty of Health Disciplines (FHD) faculty and broader audiences.

Specific activities include, but are not limited to

  • Systematic Literature Review: Engaging in all stages of the review using the PRISMA methodology and Covidence software. This includes reviewing full-text articles based on established criteria and synthesizing findings.
  • Data Management and Survey Support: Supporting surveys administered through Teams Forms, responding to participant emails, and assisting with a other potential surveys.
  • Data Analysis: Identifying patterns in the literature and survey results to help synthesize actionable best practices. This includes thematic analysis of qualitative survey data.
  • Dissemination and Writing: Contributing to drafting research documents, manuscripts, and assisting with preparations for national and international conference presentations.

Qualifications

  • MHS or MN students.
  • Completion of a master’s-level research methods course.
  • Novice proficiency in evaluating both qualitative and quantitative research.
  • Strong writing skills and experience with manuscript preparation.
  • Ability to work independently and remotely as part of a virtual team.
  • Completion of TCPS 2.0 CORE module is considered an asset.
  • Experience as a nurse educator is preferred but not required.

The successful candidates will work closely with and report to Dr. Margaret Edwards. This is a mentorship-based role featuring monthly team meetings and a "discussion/decision trail" via weekly work summaries. GRAs will receive training in PRISMA, Covidence, reference management software, and NotebookLM. Specific mentorship in academic writing proficiency and data anonymization will also be provided.

This is a casual, remote position. While hours may vary, the total hours for both GRAs are estimated to average 74 hours per month across the team for 11 months. The rate of pay is commensurate with experience and collective agreement provisions.

How to apply

Interested candidates can submit their application by email to Dr. Margaret Edwards at margaret.edwards@athabascau.ca . Applications should include a single PDF document with the following:

  1. A brief cover letter summarizing your relevant experience, skills, and interests
  2. A current curriculum vitae or resume
  3. An unofficial copy of your transcript
  4. A copy of your 603 proposal
  5. Contact information for two references

At the time of the interview, Dr. Edwards will request a list of 2 references to contact after the interview.

Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and 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 here are committed to equity in employment opportunities. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, racialized minorities, 2SLGBTQI+ people, and anyone who identifies with a historically marginalized group. Applicants are welcome, but not required, to self-identify in their letter of application.

For more information or to ask questions about this opportunity, please contact Dr. Margaret Edwards (margaret.edwards@athabascau.ca).

Assistantship