Patient-Oriented Research Specialist

The Specialist will work with the SCPOR Coordinators to create strong working relationships with key partners, including patient partners, health service providers, and post-secondary organizations.  SCPOR partners include:  Saskatchewan Health Authority, eHealth Saskatchewan, Health Quality Council, First Nations University of Canada, Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, University of Saskatchewan, University of Regina, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, Metis Nation Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, and Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education.  As the SCPOR grant is a provincial initiative, building and maintaining strong working relationships with all relevant current and future provincial stakeholders is essential. 

This position is hybrid and based in Saskatoon.  Travel may be required.

Accountabilities:

• Support patient-oriented research health system project teams throughout the development and implementation of their two-year research project. Liaise with the project teams and SCPOR/partners.
• Coordinate the resources available to the project teams to ensure progress of the project.
• Support SCPOR and partner staff to operationalize strategic priorities.
• Support the development and implementation of operational plans.
• Support the tracking and reporting of outcome measures.
• Provide input to the regular reporting within SCPOR and to CIHR through the annual reporting process.
• Provide input regarding opportunities for training, events and other opportunities to build capacity in POR.
• Facilitate activities and events in collaboration with the SCPOR Coordinators and other SCPOR staff.
• Develop and maintain effective and collaborative relationships with partners and stakeholders, to support and accelerate the advancement of POR.
• Develop and maintain internal working relationships required for the conduct of the various components areas.
• Represent SCPOR in different forums, events, or committees to advance the understanding and goals of SCPOR at provincial and national levels.
• Collaborate and work effectively with the Executive Director, Scientific Director, SCPOR Coordinators, Partners and SCPOR staff.
• Work with SCPOR stakeholders to ensure appropriate individuals are engaged in SCPOR activities, outcomes and impacts.
• Manage project timelines, repositories, tracking tools and measures within the component areas and SCPOR’s priorities.
• Other duties as assigned based on SCPOR priorities.

Education: Graduate degree in health or other relevant discipline. 

Experience: A minimum of two years of relevant work experience or a combination of education and experience will be considered.  A strong understanding of academia, health research and the research process would be considered a significant asset.

Experience in managing research projects is required. 

Experience with POR and community-based research is an asset.

Experience working with rural and First Nations and/or Métis organizations or communities is an important asset. Experience working in a diverse and inclusive environment is required.

Skills:

• Principled and self-disciplined; ability to work individually and as a member of an interdisciplinary and cross-sector team.
• Willingness and ability to build collaborations with a variety of stakeholders and work cultures; upholds respect for diversity and cultural safety.
• Understanding of POR and community engaged research and ability to apply this understanding in daily activities.
• Excellent communication skills – both written and oral; possess networking skills.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills; respect for diversity; sensitivity, and empathy; relationship builder.
• Exercises judgment, tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality.
• High level of professionalism; the ability to interact diplomatically and professionally with a variety of individuals within SCPOR, and with SCPOR’s partners and stakeholders.
• Possess dexterity in effectively maneuvering in difficult situations with competing interests.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain attention to detail and apply critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated dexterity in managing deadlines and multiple demands; ability to manage frequently shifting priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to logistically track and follow up on action items. Strong organizational skills and attention to follow-through.
• Demonstrated strong skills in online meeting software and online learning platforms, such as Zoom and Blackboard.
• Understanding of software, websites and resources utilized in offering online events (e.g. Zoom, Teams, etc.).
• Demonstrate exceptional efficiency with Microsoft Office Software including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and pdf software.

This position is in scope of the Administrative and Supervisory Personnel Association (ASPA).