Strategic Initiatives Analyst
Top Benefits
About the role
Please refer to the
How to Apply for a Job (for External Candidates)
job aid for instructions on how to apply.
If you are an active McGill employee (ie: currently in an active contract or position at McGill University), do not apply through this Career Site. Login to your McGill Workday account and apply to this posting using the Find Jobs report (type Find Jobs in the search bar).
Position Summary:
The Strategic Initiatives Analyst provides a high level of support on strategic dossiers in the portfolio of the Vice-President (Research and Innovation) [VPRI]. The role of the incumbent is primarily data analysis, reporting and support on strategic files. Reporting to the Associate Director, Research Systems and Planning, the Analyst is a member of the Research Planning and Analysis team within the Strategic Initiatives unit and collaborates closely with Associate Directors and Senior Advisors. Due to the complexity of the various portfolios that fall within the unit’s mandate, the incumbent must function with an exceptional level of accuracy, sound judgment and efficiency.
Primary Responsibilities:
The Analyst provides technical, analytic, and management support for activities related to research administration, strategic planning, and reporting, including data collection, analysis, and presentation. The Analyst will participate in all aspects of data collection and analysis related to research funding and impact metrics (e.g., bibliometrics, research grants and contracts, chairs, prizes and awards, and innovation-related metrics). The output is applied in a wide range of materials and presentations, often related to mission critical decisions related to research investments.
The Analyst will apply their analytical and problem-solving skills to initiatives and projects related to research and reporting to derive meaningful insights. In this role, the Analyst is mainly responsible for: 1) data analysis for priority initiatives; 2) data analysis to inform decision making/meet stakeholder information needs; and 3) management and administration of institutional programs.
The Analyst works with other units within the RI sector, and liaises with other sectors, for example Analysis, Planning and Budget (APB), Research Financial Management Services, staff in the offices of the Provost and Faculty Deans as well as with McGill’s affiliated research institutes. Track and analyze metrics, compile reports, and communicate progress.
Data quality and governance
- Collaborate with data owners, technical teams, and business units to investigate and resolve data quality issues, ensuring that all data is complete, accurate, and delivered in a timely manner.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive business glossaries and data dictionaries to support a shared understanding of key terms, definitions, and metrics across all units within the VPRI portfolio.
- Standardize data methodologies, definitions, and sources to ensure consistent reporting of strategic metrics across all units within the Research and Innovation sector.
- Contribute to the ongoing development and implementation of data governance frameworks, policies, and procedures, supporting the creation and maintenance of high-quality, trusted data assets.
- Promote best practices in data stewardship and quality assurance through staff training, documentation, and collaborative initiatives, ensuring institutional data integrity through continuous validation, reconciliation, and standardization of reporting practices.
Data Analysis to inform decision making/provide information to key stakeholders
- Works with data from a variety of internal and external agencies, such as McGill’s internal grants management system, the Tri-Agencies, Canada Research Chair Program, and the Canada Foundation for Innovation.
- Participate in all aspects of data collection and analysis related to research funding and impact metrics, e.g. bibliometrics, research grants and contracts, chairs, prizes and awards, and innovation-related metrics.
- Design, develop, and maintain dynamic PowerBI dashboards tailored to the evolving needs of senior leadership, faculty, and research units. Respond to data and ad hoc information request from the McGill research community including the Vice-President (Research and Innovation), Faculty Associate Deans of Research, and research groups often requiring a needs assessment to interpret information requirements.
- Collect, analyze, and report competition statistics related to research funding programs, including application volumes, success rates, and comparative performance across units and institutions.
- Design and maintain surveys and manage resulting data sets. Assume other responsibilities or tasks related to the support of research data and other strategic initiatives for the University as assigned.
- Provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis to support strategic objectives.
- Undertake special projects and develop data sets to support analysis.
- Continuously identify opportunities to enhance data analysis methodologies, improve reporting frameworks, and strengthen engagement with internal and external stakeholders.
- Stay informed about developments and emerging trends in the Canadian higher education and research funding landscape.
Management and administration of institutional programs
- Manage the day-to-day data requirements of the Système d’information sur la recherche universitaire (SIRU), ensuring that institutional data collection, entry, and coding meet program and reporting requirements.
- Lead or support the preparation, validation, and timely submission of institutional data reports through the SIRU platform, ensuring accuracy and compliance with government and agency requirements.
- Liaise with SIRU program staff to obtain necessary codes, documentation, and guidance, maintaining strong communication and collaboration with provincial counterparts and other Quebec institutions.
- Maintain detailed documentation of reporting processes, data definitions, and methodologies to promote transparency, reproducibility, and continuous improvement in data management practices.
- Collaborate closely with internal VPRI units and IT teams to ensure that research systems, such as eRAP, are properly configured to support accurate data capture and reporting.
- Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement in the administration of institutional programs, optimizing workflows and ensuring efficient use of resources.
Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities
- Bachelor’s degree in a field emphasizing analytical and quantitative skills (e.g., mathematics, statistics, computer science, psychology, accounting, or educational research); a graduate degree is preferred.
- Two to four years of experience in research administration within a Canadian university environment, with strong knowledge of the research ecosystem and funding landscape.
- Demonstrated expertise in data analysis and visualization, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Pivot Tables, Power Query) and experience with Power BI or Tableau (including DAX or equivalent tools) to create dashboards and analytical reports.
- Experience managing and querying data from relational databases (e.g., Oracle) and working with Microsoft Office 365 tools such as SharePoint and Microsoft Lists.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret both quantitative and qualitative data, synthesize insights, and communicate findings clearly through data storytelling, written reports, and presentations.
- Experience with qualitative data analysis methods and tools to complement quantitative research and reporting.
- Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to adapt analytical approaches to meet diverse stakeholder needs.
- Comprehensive understanding of the research funding landscape in Canada and Quebec, including major federal and provincial programs.
- Bilingual in both written and spoken English and French.
- Excellent writer with ability to prepare reports and presentations targeted to multiple audiences. Service-oriented approach to people and a proven ability to solve problems. Self-motivated, with well-developed organizational skills, able to prioritize a wide range of responsibilities, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and work well under pressure.
- Must be able to meet tight deadlines and demonstrate a high level of professionalism in working with a team of people to achieve specific outcomes.
As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:
- Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
- Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
- Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
- Competitive vacation policy
- Two (2) personal days
- Two (2) floating holidays
- Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
- Paid time off over the December holiday period
- Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
- Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
Knowledge of 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 # (qualifier) on a scale of 0-4*.*
For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click
here
.
Minimum Education and Experience:
Bachelor's Degree 3 Years Related Experience /
Annual Salary:
(MPEX Grade 05) $71,890.00 - $89,860.00 - $107,830.00
Job Profile:
MPEX-IST2J - IT Analytics & Planning - Professional 2
Hours per Week:
33.75 (Full time)
Supervisor:
Associate Director, Research Systems & Planning
Position End Date (If applicable):
Deadline to Apply:
2026-01-20
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. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence,
accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca
.
About McGill University
McGill University is one of Canada's best-known institutions of higher learning and one of the leading universities in the world. With students coming to McGill from some 150 countries, our student body is the most internationally diverse of any research-intensive university in the country. McGill was founded in 1821 thanks to a generous bequest by James McGill, and since then, we've grown from a small college to a bustling university with three campuses, 11 faculties, some 300 programs of study, and more than 37,500 students. The University also partners with four affiliated teaching hospitals to graduate over 1,000 health care professionals each year.
The goal of McGill University's social media platforms is to strengthen our community, which includes students, faculty, and alumni. The aim is to provide information on events, campus news and promote networking.
McGill University fosters freedom of expression, while valuing respect and collegiality. We encourage respectful dialogue and reserve the right to remove the following: Comments deemed offensive, vulgar or profane; comments off-topic and/or unrelated to posted content; content that infringes on an individual's privacy or copyright.
Strategic Initiatives Analyst
Top Benefits
About the role
Please refer to the
How to Apply for a Job (for External Candidates)
job aid for instructions on how to apply.
If you are an active McGill employee (ie: currently in an active contract or position at McGill University), do not apply through this Career Site. Login to your McGill Workday account and apply to this posting using the Find Jobs report (type Find Jobs in the search bar).
Position Summary:
The Strategic Initiatives Analyst provides a high level of support on strategic dossiers in the portfolio of the Vice-President (Research and Innovation) [VPRI]. The role of the incumbent is primarily data analysis, reporting and support on strategic files. Reporting to the Associate Director, Research Systems and Planning, the Analyst is a member of the Research Planning and Analysis team within the Strategic Initiatives unit and collaborates closely with Associate Directors and Senior Advisors. Due to the complexity of the various portfolios that fall within the unit’s mandate, the incumbent must function with an exceptional level of accuracy, sound judgment and efficiency.
Primary Responsibilities:
The Analyst provides technical, analytic, and management support for activities related to research administration, strategic planning, and reporting, including data collection, analysis, and presentation. The Analyst will participate in all aspects of data collection and analysis related to research funding and impact metrics (e.g., bibliometrics, research grants and contracts, chairs, prizes and awards, and innovation-related metrics). The output is applied in a wide range of materials and presentations, often related to mission critical decisions related to research investments.
The Analyst will apply their analytical and problem-solving skills to initiatives and projects related to research and reporting to derive meaningful insights. In this role, the Analyst is mainly responsible for: 1) data analysis for priority initiatives; 2) data analysis to inform decision making/meet stakeholder information needs; and 3) management and administration of institutional programs.
The Analyst works with other units within the RI sector, and liaises with other sectors, for example Analysis, Planning and Budget (APB), Research Financial Management Services, staff in the offices of the Provost and Faculty Deans as well as with McGill’s affiliated research institutes. Track and analyze metrics, compile reports, and communicate progress.
Data quality and governance
- Collaborate with data owners, technical teams, and business units to investigate and resolve data quality issues, ensuring that all data is complete, accurate, and delivered in a timely manner.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive business glossaries and data dictionaries to support a shared understanding of key terms, definitions, and metrics across all units within the VPRI portfolio.
- Standardize data methodologies, definitions, and sources to ensure consistent reporting of strategic metrics across all units within the Research and Innovation sector.
- Contribute to the ongoing development and implementation of data governance frameworks, policies, and procedures, supporting the creation and maintenance of high-quality, trusted data assets.
- Promote best practices in data stewardship and quality assurance through staff training, documentation, and collaborative initiatives, ensuring institutional data integrity through continuous validation, reconciliation, and standardization of reporting practices.
Data Analysis to inform decision making/provide information to key stakeholders
- Works with data from a variety of internal and external agencies, such as McGill’s internal grants management system, the Tri-Agencies, Canada Research Chair Program, and the Canada Foundation for Innovation.
- Participate in all aspects of data collection and analysis related to research funding and impact metrics, e.g. bibliometrics, research grants and contracts, chairs, prizes and awards, and innovation-related metrics.
- Design, develop, and maintain dynamic PowerBI dashboards tailored to the evolving needs of senior leadership, faculty, and research units. Respond to data and ad hoc information request from the McGill research community including the Vice-President (Research and Innovation), Faculty Associate Deans of Research, and research groups often requiring a needs assessment to interpret information requirements.
- Collect, analyze, and report competition statistics related to research funding programs, including application volumes, success rates, and comparative performance across units and institutions.
- Design and maintain surveys and manage resulting data sets. Assume other responsibilities or tasks related to the support of research data and other strategic initiatives for the University as assigned.
- Provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis to support strategic objectives.
- Undertake special projects and develop data sets to support analysis.
- Continuously identify opportunities to enhance data analysis methodologies, improve reporting frameworks, and strengthen engagement with internal and external stakeholders.
- Stay informed about developments and emerging trends in the Canadian higher education and research funding landscape.
Management and administration of institutional programs
- Manage the day-to-day data requirements of the Système d’information sur la recherche universitaire (SIRU), ensuring that institutional data collection, entry, and coding meet program and reporting requirements.
- Lead or support the preparation, validation, and timely submission of institutional data reports through the SIRU platform, ensuring accuracy and compliance with government and agency requirements.
- Liaise with SIRU program staff to obtain necessary codes, documentation, and guidance, maintaining strong communication and collaboration with provincial counterparts and other Quebec institutions.
- Maintain detailed documentation of reporting processes, data definitions, and methodologies to promote transparency, reproducibility, and continuous improvement in data management practices.
- Collaborate closely with internal VPRI units and IT teams to ensure that research systems, such as eRAP, are properly configured to support accurate data capture and reporting.
- Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement in the administration of institutional programs, optimizing workflows and ensuring efficient use of resources.
Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities
- Bachelor’s degree in a field emphasizing analytical and quantitative skills (e.g., mathematics, statistics, computer science, psychology, accounting, or educational research); a graduate degree is preferred.
- Two to four years of experience in research administration within a Canadian university environment, with strong knowledge of the research ecosystem and funding landscape.
- Demonstrated expertise in data analysis and visualization, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Pivot Tables, Power Query) and experience with Power BI or Tableau (including DAX or equivalent tools) to create dashboards and analytical reports.
- Experience managing and querying data from relational databases (e.g., Oracle) and working with Microsoft Office 365 tools such as SharePoint and Microsoft Lists.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret both quantitative and qualitative data, synthesize insights, and communicate findings clearly through data storytelling, written reports, and presentations.
- Experience with qualitative data analysis methods and tools to complement quantitative research and reporting.
- Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to adapt analytical approaches to meet diverse stakeholder needs.
- Comprehensive understanding of the research funding landscape in Canada and Quebec, including major federal and provincial programs.
- Bilingual in both written and spoken English and French.
- Excellent writer with ability to prepare reports and presentations targeted to multiple audiences. Service-oriented approach to people and a proven ability to solve problems. Self-motivated, with well-developed organizational skills, able to prioritize a wide range of responsibilities, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and work well under pressure.
- Must be able to meet tight deadlines and demonstrate a high level of professionalism in working with a team of people to achieve specific outcomes.
As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:
- Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
- Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
- Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
- Competitive vacation policy
- Two (2) personal days
- Two (2) floating holidays
- Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
- Paid time off over the December holiday period
- Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
- Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
Knowledge of 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 # (qualifier) on a scale of 0-4*.*
For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click
here
.
Minimum Education and Experience:
Bachelor's Degree 3 Years Related Experience /
Annual Salary:
(MPEX Grade 05) $71,890.00 - $89,860.00 - $107,830.00
Job Profile:
MPEX-IST2J - IT Analytics & Planning - Professional 2
Hours per Week:
33.75 (Full time)
Supervisor:
Associate Director, Research Systems & Planning
Position End Date (If applicable):
Deadline to Apply:
2026-01-20
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. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence,
accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca
.
About McGill University
McGill University is one of Canada's best-known institutions of higher learning and one of the leading universities in the world. With students coming to McGill from some 150 countries, our student body is the most internationally diverse of any research-intensive university in the country. McGill was founded in 1821 thanks to a generous bequest by James McGill, and since then, we've grown from a small college to a bustling university with three campuses, 11 faculties, some 300 programs of study, and more than 37,500 students. The University also partners with four affiliated teaching hospitals to graduate over 1,000 health care professionals each year.
The goal of McGill University's social media platforms is to strengthen our community, which includes students, faculty, and alumni. The aim is to provide information on events, campus news and promote networking.
McGill University fosters freedom of expression, while valuing respect and collegiality. We encourage respectful dialogue and reserve the right to remove the following: Comments deemed offensive, vulgar or profane; comments off-topic and/or unrelated to posted content; content that infringes on an individual's privacy or copyright.