POSITION SUMMARY

The Department of Social Studies of Medicine invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position examining politically charged topics in medicine. This research opportunity explores how contestations emerge and unfold at the intersections of medicine, media, and politics, contributing to theoretical discussions related to expertise, the production of health knowledge, cultural conceptions of the body, and the moral responsibilities of researchers. We are particularly interested in candidates whose work engages with the perspectives and experiences of patients and communities navigating politically contested areas of healthcare and shifting institutional landscapes. Applicants may also explore questions related to epistemic injustice, knowledge production, and the role of values in medical research and practice.

Research topics may include, but are not limited to:

- Trans health care
- Psychedelic-assisted therapy
- Race and medicine
- Reproductive care
- Alternative medicines
- Other politically contested areas of health and medicine

This position is unionized, and the incumbent will hold dual status as both a student and a McGill employee, and as a member of the AMURE (Postdocs) bargaining unit.

RESPONSIBILITIES

- Develop and lead an innovative, independent research program focused on politically contested issues in medicine, health care, and health knowledge production.
- Design and conduct qualitative, ethnographic, historical, philosophical, sociological, or interdisciplinary research projects examining the intersections of medicine, media, politics, and society.
- Collaborate with faculty supervisors and other researchers within the Department of Social Studies of Medicine on ongoing research initiatives and grant-funded projects.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret research data using appropriate methodological and theoretical approaches.
- Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to other scholarly outputs, including book chapters, reports, and policy-oriented publications.
- Present research findings at national and international conferences, workshops, seminars, and public-facing events.
- Contribute to the intellectual and research environment of the Department through active participation in seminars, reading groups, workshops, and collaborative activities.
- Engage with relevant patient communities,



advocacy groups, healthcare practitioners, and other stakeholders, where appropriate to the research program.
- Support knowledge mobilization activities and contribute to the dissemination of research findings to academic, policy, and public audiences.
- Assist in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students involved in related research projects, as opportunities arise.

QUALIFICATIONS

- PhD in Anthropology, Sociology, Philosophy, Science and Technology Studies (STS), Health Humanities, Social Studies of Medicine, Public Health, or a closely related discipline. The PhD must be completed prior to the appointment start date of January 1, 2027.
- Demonstrated research expertise in the social, ethical, cultural, political, or historical dimensions of health, medicine, science, or technology.
- Solid record of scholarly achievement relative to career stage, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or other research outputs.
- Experience conducting independent research using qualitative, ethnographic, interpretive, historical, philosophical, or mixed-methods approaches.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex ideas to academic and non-academic audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative and interdisciplinary research environments.

OTHER DETAILS

- Number of Positions: 1
- Supervisor: Professor Sahar Sadjadi & Professor Phoebe Friesen
- Total Hours Per Week: 35
- Salary: $55,000/year
- Planned Start and End Date: January 1, 2027 - December 31, 2028
- Location: 3647 Peel
- Annual Salary: $55,000.00
- Hours per Week: 35 (Full time)
- Location: Peel 3647
- Position Start Date: 2026-08-20
- Position End Date: 2027-12-31
- Deadline to Apply: 2026-09-19

LANGUAGES

- Connaissance du français et de l'anglais:



L'Université McGill est une université de langue anglaise où les tâches quotidiennes peuvent nécessiter une communication verbale et écrite en anglais. Le niveau d'anglais requis pour ce poste a été déterminé comme étant de niveau #4 (qualificatif) sur une échelle de 0-4.
- Knowledge of French and English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level #4 on a scale of 0-4.

WORK AUTHORIZATION

In accordance with Canadian and Quebec law, the present offer is conditional upon your obtaining the appropriate work authorization from any or all of the following as applicable: Citizenship & Immigration Canada, Immigration Quebec and Human Resources & Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).

DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION

Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [email protected].

DEPARTMENTAL BACKGROUND

Located in one of the world’s great multicultural and multilingual cities, McGill University is internationally recognized for its excellence as a leading institution of higher education and research. For nearly 200 years, through the work of dedicated people, McGill has been breaking ground in diverse fields and contributing solutions to some of the world’s most significant issues. McGillians are proud to be part of a community that is both global and local, inspired by challenge and committed to shaping a better future. McGill received a Platinum STARS rating in sustainability, is among Canada’s greenest employers, and is a top Montreal Employer. Grandescunt Aucta Labore. By work, all things increase and grow. Find a sense of purpose. Develop your future.

DEI STATEMENTS

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify.

📌 Postdoctoral Researcher (Golden Horseshoe)
🏢 McGill University
📍 Golden Horseshoe