Research Associate 1

Through its core values of Courage, Respect and Excellence, CAMH is implementing its Strategic Plan: Connected CAMH, to transform lives, ignite innovation and discovery, revolutionize education and drive social change. CAMH is more than a hospital, it is a cause. CAMH is on a mission to change the way society thinks about and responds to mental illness. They aim to eliminate prejudice and discrimination and shape a world where mental illness is central to our healthcare system – a world where Mental Health is Health.

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Shkaabe Makwa at CAMH is the first hospital-based Centre in Canada designed to drive culturally-responsive systems initiatives to achieve health justice and wellness for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities through the advancement of research, workforce development and innovative healing models that harmonize traditional knowledge and medical expertise.

The Institute for Mental Health Policy Research (IMHPR) is home to leading scientific experts dedicated to informing policy and practice on mental illness and substance use disorders. IMHPR scientists conduct collaborative research on communities, populations, health systems and global health, and develop and evaluate prevention and intervention initiatives to reduce mental health and substance use challenges. IMHPR is committed to equity, informed by the social determinants of health.

Position Description

Shkaabe Makwa and the Institute for Mental Health Policy Research (IMHPR) at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) is seeking a part-time contract (12 months),  Research Associate 1. This individual will support a research project funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the First Nations Wellness Initiative, which involves the collection of local data and the development of community wellness strategies using participatory action research in First Nations communities. The research program actively engages all members of the community, including consumers/patients, families and informal caregivers, service providers and community leaders and Elders. The Research Associate 1 will support the work collaboratively as part of a team of researchers to implement community-based research, involving both quantitative and qualitative research methods.

This position is specific to Saugeen First Nation, where the Research Associate 1 will report to the Manager of the First Nations Wellness Initiative and work closely with the local Research Coordinator in support of the community meetings and administrative tasks, such as, processing honorarium, scheduling meeting venues, attending team meetings as needed, and areas related to technology. The Research Associate 1 will support various research activities alongside the Research Coordinator in all areas of the youth led Participatory Action Research in Saugeen First Nation, which will include recruiting and screening eligible study participants, obtaining informed consent, scheduling appointments, conducting interviews, and completing other research duties as required. Adherence to strict protocols for the protection of data privacy and confidentiality is required.  As a member of the research team, the Research Associate 1 will join and support a healthy workplace that embraces diversity, encourages teamwork, and complies with all applicable regulatory and legislative requirements. This position is located offsite and may involve travel within Ontario.

This part-time contract (12 months) position will have varying hours for one year, and will at times include work on evenings and weekends. You will support a healthy workplace that embraces diversity, encourages teamwork and complies with all applicable regulatory and legislative requirements. Hours of work are variable. This position will be based in Saugeen First Nation with training in Toronto at the start.

This position requires the incumbent to be First Nations, Inuit or Métis. The successful candidate will have 3 years of community college and or equivalent experience. Candidate must have at least 1 year of relevant experience involving mental wellness in Indigenous communities, experience in research is an asset. The candidate must be familiar with principles of research and engagement with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis populations. The individual will have excellent communication (verbal/written) and organizational skills. Candidates must be conscientious, reliable, mature, enthusiastic, and motivated. This position requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively while closely following detailed instructions. Candidates require the ability to work effectively in a wide range of settings with individuals from diverse backgrounds. The successful candidate will be able to work independently and possess the capacity for self-directed learning but will also excel in a team environment.

Bilingualism (French/English) and/or proficiency in an Indigenous language would be an asset.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Hiring Salary Range: $48,611.88 – $60,764.85 per year (based on qualifications and experience)
• Full Salary Range: $48,611.88 – $72,917.82per year (reflecting potential growth within the role)
• CAMH Benefits Package: Includes extended health and dental coverage, HOOPP defined benefit pension plan, paid vacation and sick leave, and professional development opportunities.

This role offers job stability, career development, and the chance to contribute to meaningful healthcare initiatives that improve patient and community well-being.