Research Assistant 1, Youth Participation Project

About the Role

Research Assistant – The Power of Voice: Youth Participation in Systems Change. The project examines how participation in the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate Youth Council influences young people’s leadership capacity, sense of agency, civic engagement and developmental outcomes over time. The study uses a qualitative longitudinal design grounded in Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), informed by Constructivist Grounded Theory, and includes interviews, researcher journaling, Youth Research Collaborative meetings, and arts-based mural creation. The RA will assist with literature review and thematic analysis of the de-identified data. They will also participate in the YPAR process.

This is a flexible Research Assistant position whose work schedule is variable and may include an irregular schedule of not less than three (3) hours per shift and up to thirty-five (35) hours per week.

Responsibilities

• Participate in coding and thematic analysis of qualitative data using NVivo or similar software.
• Assist with literature reviews
• Actively participates as part of the YPAR process
• Contribute to drafting summary documents, reports, presentations, or other dissemination activities.

 

Qualifications

Required

• Familiarity with qualitative research methods
• Excellent interpersonal communication and cultural humility when working with data involving vulnerable participants.
• Open to learning analytical skills using NVivo software

Preferred

• Current enrollment in the Bachelor of Social Work or related programs at Mount Royal University (Preferably entering 2nd or 3rd year)
• Familiarity with research ethics in qualitative studies
• Interest in learning how to work with qualitative data through thematic analysis.
• Understanding of how to complete a literature review
• Ability to work independently and manage emotional or sensitive material.

Closing Date: October 16, 2026

A cover letter and resume should be submitted in one .pdf document. Please title your .pdf document as follows: [Last Name], [Requisition Number], [Document Title].pdf (ex. Smith, 4321, CV.pdf).