Research Assistant, School of Rehabilitation Science

About the Unit/Department

The School of Rehabilitation Science at the University of Saskatchewan fosters a healthy environment that promotes a positive work experience, life‑long learning, and professional pursuits of Rehabilitation Science for students, faculty, and staff. As part of the University of Saskatchewan, we are situated in the vibrant city of Saskatoon on Treaty Six territory and the traditional homeland of the Métis.

Recognized for a growing and diverse student body, we have gained a reputation nationally and internationally for preparing high‑quality, collaborative clinicians and rehabilitation researchers, focused on improving function while promoting optimal ability, mobility, activity, and participation. We respond to changing environments, contribute to high quality clinical care in local and global communities, and are committed to improving health and the healthcare system through innovative research and evidence‑based practice.

Collaboration is a hallmark of our School and is embedded in all aspects of our mission. A energetic forward‑looking faculty and staff demonstrate resilience, compassion, humility, professionalism and a passion for advancing rehabilitation science and health‑related learning, teaching, research, and mentorship.

Primary Purpose

To provide administrative support for qualitative research projects focused on addressing ableism and understanding the lived experiences, needs, and perspectives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Nature of Work

The Research Assistant reports to Dr. Kirsten Smith and collaborates closely with other researchers, faculty, students, community partners,



and self‑advocates. The work is primarily conducted in an office environment with flexibility for remote work, alongside field‑based activities such as interviews, focus groups, or community consultations. This role requires strong ethical judgment, cultural humility, and the ability to work respectfully with sensitive topics and diverse participants.

The position requires a high level of discretion in managing confidential data, coordinating accessible research processes, and supporting participatory research activities. The pace of work varies depending on project milestones, with increased activity during periods of recruitment, data collection, and analysis. Occasional travel to community organizations or research sites may be required; some activities may occur outside standard working hours to accommodate participants’ schedules.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities

- Conduct literature reviews related to ableism, disability justice, inclusive practices, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Support the drafting and revision of research ethics board applications for a variety of projects.
- Support qualitative data collection, including conducting or assisting with interviews, focus groups, and observational research using inclusive and accessible approaches.




- Assist with qualitative data analysis (e.g., thematic analysis) using tools such as NVivo, Quirkos or manual coding strategies.
- Contribute to the development of accessible research materials, including easy‑read consent forms, interview guides, recruitment materials, and knowledge‑mobilization products.
- Maintain meticulous documentation, data organization, and ethical records in compliance with institutional and research ethics requirements.
- Assist with preparing reports, conference presentations, manuscripts, policy briefs, and community‑focused dissemination tools.
- Support relationship‑building and communication with self‑advocates, families, community agencies, and interdisciplinary collaborators.
- Coordinate meetings, schedule research activities, and assist with administrative tasks that support the successful implementation of research projects.

Education

A bachelor’s degree or diploma in a relevant field such as Disability Studies, Psychology, Social Work, Public Health, Health Sciences, Sociology, or a related discipline. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. TCPS-2 and Talking Mats Communication Protocol training are required and will be provided as needed.

Licenses

None required.

Experience

- Experience conducting or assisting with qualitative research, including interviewing, coding, or analyzing narrative data.
- Experience or familiarity working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, disability communities, or equity‑deserving groups.
- Knowledge of anti‑ableist, disability justice, or human‑rights‑based fra

📌 Research Assistant, School of Rehabilitation Science (Saskatoon)
🏢 University of Saskatchewan
📍 Saskatoon