This position is part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Trust/Research Academic Staff Agreement, this position has a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary range of $59,822 - $67,303. This position has a term of two years.

Working for the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Community Housing Canada is a national research partnership between university scholars and non-market housing providers, dedicated to enhancing the capacity and long-term sustainability of social and affordable housing across Canada. Since 2019, the partnership has contributed to policy and practice in key areas such as the human right to housing, housing vulnerability, sustainable operations, building performance, and tenant wellbeing. We are also committed to training and strengthening Canada’s housing workforce.

The partnership is based in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Alberta, where it is led by Director Dr. Damian Collins. The Department is home to three social science programs (Human Geography, Urban and Regional Planning, and Environmental Studies), which have a particular strength in housing research.

Position Summary

This position supports the work of Community Housing Canada by leading original research and facilitating the mobilization of policy-relevant knowledge across academic researchers, non-profit housing providers, and all levels of government. Based at the University of Alberta, the role involves conducting research projects on social and affordable housing in Canada, working closely with partners to ensure findings are relevant and actionable, and communicating the partnership’s activities and achievements to a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing evidence-based policy and practice in the affordable housing sector, while contributing to the visibility and impact of Community Housing Canada’s work.

The Faculty of Science is internationally recognized for excellence in research and education. Through pioneering discovery and innovation, the faculty addresses global challenges across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computing science, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. Its work positions the university at the forefront of technological, environmental, and scientific advancement.

• Carry out research projects, including literature and policy reviews, collection and analysis of primary and secondary data, and report writing.

• Prepare research findings for academic publication, including leading the writing of journal articles and reports.

• Lead the development of policy briefs and other materials that support evidence-based housing policy.

• Coordinate internal and external communications for Community Housing Canada.

• Assist in the planning and delivery of both in-person and virtual partnership events (e.g., workshops, webinars, symposia).

• A thesis-based Master’s degree in a relevant social science discipline (e.g., Geography, Sociology, Urban Planning, Public Policy).

• Proven ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively within a team.

• Strong understanding of the importance and challenges of social and affordable housing in Canada.

• Experience in academic knowledge mobilization, including authorship of peer-reviewed articles, reports, or other research outputs.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of Canadian housing policy and governance.
• Familiarity with contemporary research in housing studies.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.