Research Assistant

Department: Research Team
Supervisor: Project Coordinator
Location: Finding Our Power Together (FOPT), Toronto, ON (with remote flexibility)
Hourly Rate: $26–29/hour
Hours per Week: 8–12 hours
Contract Type: Part-time, contract-based

About Finding Our Power Together (FOPT)

Finding Our Power Together (FOPT) is an Indigenous-led charitable organization that provides culturally grounded mental health, wellness, and educational programming. Rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems, FOPT works alongside communities to support healing, strengthen relationships, and advance community-driven research that reflects the strengths, needs, and priorities of Indigenous Peoples.

Position Overview

Research Assistants support the implementation of community-based and Indigenous-led research initiatives at FOPT. Working under the guidance of the Project Coordinator, Research Assistants contribute to all stages of the research process, including data collection, analysis, knowledge mobilization, and community engagement.

This role requires a strong commitment to relational accountability, respect for Indigenous knowledge systems, and the ability to work collaboratively with community members, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and research team members.

Key Responsibilities

Research Support

• Support data collection activities that include but are not limited to  literature reviews, environmental scans, and jurisdictional reviews
• Support and/or co-facilitate data collection activities (e.g., interviews, focus groups, community consultations), including note-taking and documentation.
• Maintain organized and accurate records of research activities
• Ensure data integrity, confidentiality, and ethical handling of information

Community Engagement

• Support the planning and coordination of community gatherings, consultations, and meetings
• Engage respectfully with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, Elders, and community members
• Assist with communication, scheduling, and follow-up with participants
• Uphold cultural protocols and relational approaches to engagement

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Contribute to qualitative data coding and analysis using tools such as NVivo or Atlas.ti
• Support synthesis of findings into reports, presentations, and summaries
• Assist in creating accessible, community-facing materials and knowledge mobilization outputs

Administrative Support

• Support coordination of project timelines and deliverables
• Maintain research documentation and shared files
• Participate in team meetings and provide updates on assigned tasks

Qualifications

Required

• Self-identifies as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, Métis, or Indigenous to Turtle Island), with lived experience and/or meaningful community connections.
• Based in or near the Greater Toronto Area
• Enrolled in or completed a post-secondary program in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, Indigenous studies, public health)
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully within a team
• Familiarity with Indigenous methodologies, cultural protocols, and trauma-informed approaches

Preferred

• Experience with qualitative or quantitative research methods
• Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti)
• Experience supporting research projects or conducting literature reviews
• Understanding of OCAP principles and Indigenous data governance

Working Conditions

• Hybrid work model with a mix of remote and in-person activities
• Occasional travel within the Greater Toronto Area may be required

Finding Our Power Together (FOPT) is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and culturally grounded environment rooted in relationship, community, and care. We welcome applications from Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island, as well as individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.