Masters Research Assistant
Overview
The Master Research Assistant will provide direct support to the Special Project Coordinators in carrying out recruitment and data collection activities for the Northwestern Ontario Workplace and Worker Health Study (NOWWHS). The primary focus of this role is outreach: conducting cold calls and follow-up calls to workplaces and businesses across Northwestern Ontario to promote study participation, schedule meetings, and support the coordination of data collection activities. Working under the guidance of the Special Project Coordinators and the Director, the Master Research Assistant will contribute to the smooth execution of field research activities while adhering to research ethics protocols and confidentiality requirements.
The Master Research Assistant performs varied research support activities requiring specialized knowledge and experience in research operations. Working under general supervision, the role supports the design, coordination, and execution of research activities, including participant recruitment, data collection, and data management. The position contributes to the effective implementation of research protocols and supports the day-to-day delivery of applied research projects within the EPID@Work Research Institute.
Responsibilities
- Workplace Outreach & Participant Recruitment
- Conduct follow-up calls to current study participants and enrolled workplaces to support retention, address questions, confirm continued participation, and maintain engagement across the longitudinal study.
- Serve as backup support to the Special Project Coordinators for cold calling activities to workplaces and businesses when required.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all follow-up contacts, participant responses, and retention status using study tracking systems; flag any concerns regarding participant dropout or non-response to the Special Project Coordinator.
- Research Support & Data Collection
- Assist the Special Project Coordinators with organizing and executing on-site and remote data collection activities at workplaces across Northwestern Ontario.
- Support data entry, processing, and basic quality checks to ensure accuracy and completeness of collected data.
- Assist with the preparation and distribution of study materials, including information packages, consent forms, and surveys.
- Participate in team meetings, debriefs, and other research activities as required.
- Research Ethics & Confidentiality Compliance
- Adhere strictly to Research Ethics Board (REB) protocols and confidentiality requirements throughout all study activities.
- Handle all participant information with the highest degree of professionalism and discretion, maintaining confidentiality at all times in accordance with study protocols and applicable privacy regulations.
Generic Job Duties -
- Conduct outreach and follow-up calls with workplaces and businesses across Northwestern Ontario to support recruitment and retention of participants for the Northwestern Ontario Workplace and Worker Health Study (NOWWHS).
- Assist with organizing and coordinating research activities, including scheduling workplace engagements and supporting on-site or remote data collection.
- Maintain accurate records of participant interactions, recruitment activities, and study progress using designated research tracking systems.
- Support data entry, data processing, and preliminary quality checks to ensure completeness and accuracy of research data.
- Assist with the preparation and distribution of study materials, including information packages, consent forms, and survey instruments, while adhering to Research Ethics Board (REB) protocols and confidentiality requirements.
Qualifications
- An MSc or MPH in Epidemiology, Public Health, Occupational Health, Health Sciences, Biostatistics, or a related field is considered a strong asset; candidates with an MD and post-graduate training in epidemiology or biostatistics are also encouraged to apply.
- Equivalent relevant experience in a research or health-related setting will be considered instead of a graduate degree.
- Previous experience as a research assistant, in participant recruitment, or in a customer service or outreach role is considered a strong asset.
- Demonstrated strong ability or willingness to conduct cold calls and telephone-based outreach; comfortable professionally engaging with diverse workplace stakeholders.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English; a clear, confident, and professional telephone manner is essential.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the ability to represent the Institute positively to external contacts.
- Knowledge of research processes and experience with or understanding of Research Ethics Board (REB) protocols is an asset.
- Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail; ability to maintain accurate records and manage multiple contacts simultaneously.
- A high degree of professionalism and discretion is required; all participant and organizational information must be handled in strict confidence at all times.
- A valid G-class driver’s license is an asset.
Research Environment
- EPID@Work is a dynamic, well-funded interdisciplinary research institute at Lakehead University conducting research in three main areas: mental health in the workplace; equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (IDEA); and knowledge mobilization and implementation (KMI).
- The NOWWHS study focuses on understanding workplace health and worker wellbeing across Northwestern Ontario, engaging a broad range of community businesses and organizations as research partners.
- The successful candidate will join a collaborative, mission-driven team of researchers, coordinators, and students, gaining hands-on experience in applied occupational health research.
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.