Enhancing the Prevention of Injury & Disability at Work

Thunder Bay

Full-time

Permanent

##Overview

The EPID@Work Research Institute is seeking a qualified candidate for the role of Communications Specialist to be responsible for developing, executing, and maintaining internal and external knowledge mobilization communications. These communications will be from a stakeholder, research, and brand perspective, and will be in alignment with EPID@Work strategic goals and knowledge mobilization best practices.

Positions at this level plan, coordinate, and support research-related activities, including establishing communication protocols and determining appropriate knowledge mobilization methods. Working independently within general guidelines and in collaboration with the Principal Investigator and research team, the incumbent exercises discretion and judgment while contributing specialized expertise in translating scientific research into accessible formats.

The Communications Specialist plays a key role in bridging research and practice by applying advanced communication strategies to support dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and research impact. The role requires a combination of strategic thinking, creativity, and strong analytical skills to effectively interpret and communicate complex scientific information to diverse audiences.

##Responsibilities

• Develop, execute, and maintain internal and external knowledge mobilization communications aligned with EPID@Work’s strategic goals and best practices
• Use persuasive writing and research skills to develop knowledge content and products for a wide variety of communication platforms including print, social/digital media, websites, events, conferences, and reports
• Translate complex scientific information into accessible and engaging communications for diverse audiences
• Support the planning and execution of EPID@Work’s annual Research into Action Conference in collaboration with the Knowledge Mobilization Specialist
• Lead and support public relations and outreach initiatives, including stakeholder engagement, networking, and presentations
• Under general guidance or in collaboration with the research team, design and implement communication strategies and knowledge mobilization plans that align with research objectives
• Determine appropriate methodologies, tools, and platforms for dissemination of research findings and stakeholder engagement
• Apply specialized knowledge to review and interpret published literature and translate findings into communication materials and knowledge products
• Design and manage content systems, databases, or tools for organizing and reporting communication outputs and research dissemination activities
• Summarize research findings and contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and manuscripts
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including researchers, partners, and industry collaborators, to support research dissemination and partnerships
• Present research and knowledge mobilization outputs at seminars, conferences, and outreach events
• Establish and maintain relationships with stakeholders to support research impact, funding opportunities, and collaboration
• Exercise independent judgment in applying communication and knowledge mobilization principles, adapting strategies to meet project needs
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff or students involved in communications or knowledge mobilization activities
• Perform all knowledge management and partnership duties in a confidential, professional, and diplomatic manner
• Manage social media platforms and utilize graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva) to support communications and branding initiatives

##Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, or a related field, with some related research experience OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Post-secondary education, preferably in communications, journalism, or public relations, combined with a minimum of two (2) years’ experience in communications
• Experience writing and creating content for multiple media platforms (print, digital, social media, reports, and presentations)
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex, scientific information into accessible communications
• Strong written and oral communication skills with exceptional attention to detail
• Strategic and creative mindset with the ability to manage multiple communication initiatives
• Experience with social media management and graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva) is considered an asset
• Experience in public relations, outreach, networking, and public speaking
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research environment
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and diplomacy

Established in 2018, the mandate of EPID@Work is to bring people together to reduce work-related injury and disability through collaborative applied research and provision of education to enhance knowledge related to injury and disability. The Institute recently became a partner with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development and holds a seat at the Ministry’s Prevention Research Partners’ Table. Information generated from our research informs practice and policies aiming to improve health and social outcomes in Northwestern Ontario and beyond. More information on the EPID@Work Research Institute is available at https://www.lakeheadu.ca/centre/epid.

Lakehead University is a comprehensive, research-intensive university, founded in 1956, with a reputation for innovative programs and cutting-edge research. With 11 Canada Research Chairs, 338 full-time faculty members, 13 research centers, 38 graduate programs (over 1300 graduate students), and external research funding that has increased 62.5% in the last 15 years, Lakehead’s sustained development in research is clear. As a result, for five years in a row (2015 to 2019), Lakehead University was named Research University of the Year in Canada by Research InfoSource in our peer group category. Research InfoSource also ranked Lakehead first among undergraduate universities in Canada for our total amount of funding from non-profit partners for the period from 2013 to 2017. The health and well-being of our employees are of the utmost importance to us. Lakehead University encourages and supports our employees in prioritizing their own well-being. To support our employees in balancing their working and personal lives, whether working traditional hours
In the workplace or remotely, we have implemented a Disconnecting from Work Policy to encourage employees to disconnect from work outside of their working hours.

Lakehead University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including women, racialized persons, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. This is in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements.

Lakehead University has a goal to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as measured by increasing representation of underrepresented groups among applicants, candidates, and hires. Experience working with Indigenous or racialized communities, and/or members of other equity-deserving groups, is a strong asset. A lived experience or worked experience of any of these issues is preferred.

We appreciate your interest; Lakehead University is committed to supporting an accessible environment. Applicants requiring accommodation during the interview process should contact the Office of Human Resources at (807) 343-8010 ext. 8334 or human.resources@lakeheadu.ca to make appropriate arrangements.

Lakehead University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including women, racialized persons, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. This is in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements.

Lakehead University has a goal to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as measured by increasing representation of underrepresented groups among applicants, candidates, and hires. Experience working with Indigenous or racialized communities, and/or members of other equity-deserving groups, is a strong asset. A lived experience or worked experience of any of these issues is preferred.

**We appreciate your interest; Lakehead University is committed to supporting an accessible environment.**Applicants requiring accommodation during the interview process should contact the Office of Human Resources at (807) 343-8010 ext. 8334 or human.resources@lakeheadu.ca to make appropriate arrangements.

Benefits Information

Why Lakehead University?

Application Deadline:

Friday, April 10, 2026 - 11:59am

Salary:

$52,379.6 - $63,681.80 (RFP 6)

Reference Number:

GEN-26-16

Application Deadline:

Friday, April 10, 2026 - 11:59am

Salary:

$52,379.6 - $63,681.80 (RFP 6)

Yes, eligible for benefits

Reference Number:

GEN-26-16