Research assistant – casual position
Start date: Will commence when a suitable candidate is found
Application deadline: Will remain until filled
Supervisor: Dr. Tobias Wiggins
Faculty: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Transgender Mental Health and Transphobic Countertransference
Overview
This project is seeking a temporary, part-time Research Assistant (RA) for a research study at Athabasca University (AU). This project aims to envision a trans research methodology and analyze the effect of transphobic countertransference on 2TNG adult’s and youth’s access to health care. The RA will assist the Principle Investigator (PI) with qualitative data analysis, literature reviews, knowledge mobilization, article drafts, assisting with grant writing, and administrative support of the TransLab. The TransLab is an interdisciplinary research hub that supports the production of affirming, intersectional, and critical qualitative research at AU.
Qualifications and Experience
The successful candidate will:
- hold significant experience with qualitative data analysis (including the use of software such as MAXQDA or NVivo) and literature reviews.
- be nearing the completion of an undergraduate degree or undertaking a graduate degree. A number of disciplinary specializations will be considered, including but not limited to, Gender Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies, Indigenous Studies, Social Work, Political Science, and Sociology. Exceptions to this credentialling can be made in cases where the applicant can provide comparable educational, work, or lived experience and knowledge.
- have research interests and/or experience in any of the following: transgender studies, intersectionality, mental health, social determinants of health, psychology, race and racism, Indigenous and decolonial studies, disability, feminist research, community-based research, digital worlds, queer and feminist technologies, social justice, advocacy and activism.
- have research, work, service, or lived experience with 2TNG people and communities.
- hold some experience conducting or planning quantitative research studies.
Key Responsibilities
The primary job duties for the Research Assistant are (in order of priority):
- conduct literature reviews on transphobic countertransference and arts-based methodologies
- assist with knowledge mobilization initiatives
- assist with grant writing and drafts of articles
- offer administrative support for the Trans Lab
- attend regular meetings with the PI
- general administrative duties
- complete other research-related tasks as needed
The RA will receive support from the PI in research methods and theories, publication and research communication, knowledge mobilization and dissemination, data management and analysis, research ethics and interdisciplinary research. The expected outcome will be the RA's increased expertise in data analysis and research design, along with a solid foundation in ethical considerations when working with marginalized populations.
Hours and compensation
This position is comprised of 179 hours over a 10-month period with the potential for additional hours. The number of weekly hours will vary. Rate of pay commensurate with experience and collective agreement provisions. Start date is as soon as possible.
The position is based in Calgary Alberta but can be completely remotely. The successful candidate will work with, and directly report to, Dr. Tobias Wiggins at Athabasca University.
How to apply
Qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their application by email to Dr. Wiggins at twiggins@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; 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 opportunity, please contact Dr. Wiggins at the coordinates below. Applications will be accepted until June 6th, 2025 or until a suitable candidate is found.
Tobias B. D. Wiggins, PhD | he/him
Assistant Professor
Women's and Gender Studies
Athabasca University
Toll free: 1-877-631-0011