Research and Innovation Specialist

Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse • Ottawa, ON

19h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Research and Innovation Specialist (RIS) is responsible for developing relationships with partners and synthesizing various forms of evidence to get the right information into the right hands at the right time. The RIS leads and proactively seeks opportunities for multi-faceted knowledge mobilization (KM) initiatives that will advance CCSA’s priorities to achieve desired change in programs, policies and practice. The RIS conducts research and integrated KM, including developing and disseminating innovative approaches to evidence-based research and product dissemination, as well as transforming evidence and experiences into training and implementation that strengthens knowledge, change and supports among various audiences. This role establishes strategic partnerships and buy-in from a range of collaborators to achieve these changes and works collaboratively with other divisions in CCSA.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or doctoral degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., science, arts and humanities, health administration, adult education) or area related to the substance use field
• A minimum of two years’ experience working in a similar role. A combination of experience and education will be considered
• Ability to conduct evidence-based research, interpret and identify key results from health and other research, and summarize findings in plain language (presentations and writing)
• Strong writing skills with the ability to explain complex research findings and prepare knowledge mobilization products in a clear and concise manner (e.g., reports, presentations, public education)
• Experience identifying and applying best practices in integrated KM to multi-faceted KM strategies (e.g., communications, education, training, resource development, stakeholder engagement) and evaluating the uptake, use and impact of this knowledge
• Familiarity with partner engagement, consultation and related data collection methods through various mechanisms, including surveys, focus groups and social media
• Ability to understand, express and apply quantitative, qualitative or both analyses concepts, methods and procedures
• Eager to learn, try new things, and experiment with and build on ideas while constantly looking to expand skill set
• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment
• Initiative and ability to work with minimum supervision
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with colleagues in a confident, courteous and professional manner
• Relationship-building skills across health, municipal, justice, and community sectors
• Demonstrated excellence in project- and time-management skills to meet deadlines and deliver results

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in or with governmental, non-governmental or international organizations
• Clinical experience in health or social settings is strongly preferred
• Bilingual in English and French

Responsibilities

• Plans, leads and conducts multiple research and knowledge mobilization projects. This may include determining study design, data sources and analyses, or developing and implementing knowledge mobilization plans, and managing scope, timelines and costs of projects
• Works with CCSA colleagues to interpret and summarize research findings for knowledge mobilization plans, products, tools and activities to inform practice, policy and program development
• Leads or assists in the development and implementation of knowledge mobilization plans on assigned projects
• Contributes to and writes sections of research proposals or grants to gain additional project funding for CCSA
• Presents research or knowledge products, such as conferences, symposia, partner meetings, workshops, adapting presentation and style to audience
• Supports project management activities, including co-ordinating project work, collaborating with colleagues and identifying deliverables, timelines, risks, budgets and partner engagement
• Schedules, organizes and attends all project development meetings and events, assisting in ensuring appropriate attendees are present and preparing materials, presentations and documents
• Develops and researches products that support or can be used as educating and training materials for different audiences
• Proactively initiates and develops strategic relationships with partners including those with lived or living experience of substance use
• Responsible for all inside project development efforts, including responding to and following up on inquiries and maintaining engagement
• Identifies potential risks and benefits for projects, and liaises with the team to resolve problems
• Builds strong relationships through ongoing communication and support to encourage the active participation, satisfaction and commitment of partners and contributors
• Tracks deliverables and keeps partners and all interested parties updated about progress

Benefits

• Occasional exposure to psychological challenging conditions, such as deadline pressure, interpersonal conflict or extended work hours for which no additional compensation is provided

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level