Research Assistant, College of Nursing

Primary Purpose: In the appointment of Student Research Assistant, your general duties and responsibilities will be to support the research work of a team investigating the experience of empowerment and leadership for novice nurses working in acute medical areas.

Dr. Natasha Hubbard Murdoch (USask College of Nursing), in partnership with Jasdeep Sondhi (Brock University), is seeking a Student Research Assistant to support a research project, funded by the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation. The incumbent is expected to assist in developing a scoping review. There is opportunity for further qualitative research duties. While this is a remote position and the candidate should have the ability to work independently, this is a collaborative interprofessional team built on reciprocal mentorship.

Duration of Employment: up to end of August 2026

Qualifications (Skills and Abilities)
Applicants are required to be enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program. Must have proficiency using Microsoft, Zoom, Teams platforms. Professional communication across these platforms, emails, and texts is expected. Ability to learn new software applications quickly is key (i.e. Trello, NVivo, Covidence). Completion of TCPS Core certificate is required prior to hiring. Completion of a research course is required.

Nature of Work: A successful candidate will be expected to contribute collaboratively to the development of a scoping review which also serves as the evidence-base behind the qualitative research phase on the experience of novice nurses. Continual contact between Saskatchewan and Ontario team members is a foundation for the collaborative work.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: The Research Assistant will work closely with the research team to achieve the project goals. Work occurs in an environment where the daily tasks are flexible and may evolve based on the needs of the progressing project. The ability to foster a work atmosphere that is positive, supportive, responsive, and transparent is needed. This individual requires initiative, discretion, self-direction and motivation to execute assigned tasks in a timely manner. A high level of independence, flexibility, responsibility and accountability are necessary.

Key Responsibilities:

• In direct collaboration with a new graduate, conduct the six stages of a literature review
• Report, provide updates, and seek support from the research coordinator regarding the review process and any learning needs
• Create presentations, posters and manuscripts, and/or other formats for dissemination of research findings
• Seek opportunities for knowledge dissemination
• Monitor the progress of research activities; develop and maintain records of research activities, and prepare periodic and ad hoc reports, as required by investigators, administrators, funding agencies, and/or regulatory bodies
• Attend meetings with the research team and proactively determine individual actionable items
• Perform other tasks as identified throughout the research process

Skills:

• Effective organizational skills, the acumen to handle complex situations and the ability to prioritize competing deadlines.
• Establish and maintain professional relationships that support exceptional collaboration.
• exemplary interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Speak up about potential issues and coordinate creative solutions  
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented and diverse environment.
• Attention to detail
• Critique qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
• Gather, track, analyze, and present information utilizing advanced features in programs such as Microsoft Office, NVivo, Covidence.

To Apply:
Interested applicants must include the following in their application: cover letter describing their interest in the project topic and particular skills that meet the criteria, and curriculum vitae. Academic references will be requested for applicants short-listed for an interview.

Submit the application or inquire with Dr. Natasha Hubbard Murdoch

Department: College of Nursing
Status: Casual

Employment Group: Graduate Students - PSAC

Rate of Pay: Current rates of pay

Posted Date: 1/19/2026

Closing Date: 2/1/2026

Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

#LI-DNI

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.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources for assistance.