Research Specialist, Research Acceleration and Strategic Initiatives

**Research Specialist, Research Acceleration and Strategic Initiatives**:
**Primary Purpose**: Reporting to the Senior Research Specialist, the Research Specialist supports the development of competitive large-scale and institutional research proposals by providing project management assistance, drafting and editing key sections of proposals and managing programs to support research proposal development and special projects.

**Nature of Work**: This position will work as an essential member of RASI, to substantively contribute to cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary research proposals. The Research Specialist will take initiative to deliver exceptional service to USask research stakeholders through the delivery of tailored support to strengthen grant-funding proposals, and by assisting in developing and delivering programs and services that support the development of research capacity.

This position requires in-depth knowledge spanning provincial and federal research funding opportunities to effectively assist faculty with research proposal development. The incumbent will be required to work independently, but also as part of a team environment and across administrative boundaries. The work is highly challenging and this position would have responsibility for ensuring that inflexible deadlines are met. Extended and non-standard hours may occasionally be required. The ability to take initiative, coupled with strong problem solving skills, is essential for success in this position

**Accountabilities**:

- Work independently and as part of a team to provide specialized expertise and services in proposal development, including project management support, substantive grant editing, drafting of key proposal components, budget development, peer review support, and portal support, for researchers leading large-scale and institutional proposals.
- On behalf of RASI, manage the delivery of institutional and internal grant programs by providing professional services and program support, including information sessions, workshops, etc.
- Design proposal development materials, provide expert advice, and support post-award project launch while ensuring adherence with university and relevant funding agency requirements.
- Contribute to the success of the RASI team by undertaking special projects of strategic importance to the unit as assigned.
- Perform background research, such as environmental scans, etc. to inform proposal or research cluster development.
- Build collaborative relationships and partnerships within the university and with funding agencies to effectively share information.
- Maintain excellent knowledge of the Canadian funding landscape.

**Education**: A graduate degree; a PhD is an asset for this position. A combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

**Experience**: The incumbent should have:

- a minimum of 5 years of related experience in a post-secondary setting, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience;
- expert knowledge of the Canadian funding landscape, with an emphasis on large-scale and institutional granting opportunities;
- proposal development and substantive editing experience; and
- an appreciation of the complexities, challenges and rewards of research.

**Skills**:

- Demonstrated strong writing skills and excellent communications skills.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver proactive, user-oriented services to stakeholders.
- Proven interpersonal skills coupled with the ability to work flexibly both within a team and independently.
- Effective time management skills with the ability to react to shifting priorities.
- Strong organization skills and proven ability to manage multiple tasks with tight timelines.
- Ability to exercise judgment, tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality.
- Knowledge of university research administrative procedures and practices.

**Department**: Research Acceleration and Strategic Initiatives
**Supervisor Job Title**:Sr. Research Specialist
**Status**: Permanent
**Employment Group**: ASPA
**Full Time Equivalent (FTE)**: 1.0
**Salary**: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $69,035.00 - 107,868.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
**Salary Family (if applicable)**:Specialist Professional
**Salary Phase/Band**:Phase 2
**Posted Date**: 9/19/2025
**Closing Date**: 9/26/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
**Number of Openings**:1
**Work Location**:May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve**:EDI Framework for Action**.**
The Un