Research Analyst (External Advocacy)

Position Overview

The Research Analyst (External Advocacy) (RAEA) reports to the Director of Research and Advocacy (DRA) and works closely with the President and Vice President (External). The RAEA primarily researches and analyzes information regarding government and other interest holders' priorities, policies and practice, as well as other matters affecting the post-secondary experience. The RAEA may also be called on to work with the External Relations Specialist (ERS) and the DRA to support primarily external advocacy efforts.

The RAEA will work 20 hours per week during July and August, with the potential for as many hours in the Fall and Winter, depending on the applicant's availability. This job is open only to University of Alberta undergraduate students or recent graduates.

Responsibilities

• Work will primarily involve the production of briefings for the DRA, ERS and/or Executive Committee at the request of the DRA or Executive Committee.


• Monitor external (government, sector and media) trends and developments affecting post-secondary policy and perception; report shifts and synthesize trends for the DRA and Executive Committee as needed.


• Assist in the strategic analysis of data and trends, and provide planning and ideas input for department and executive consideration when appropriate.


• Maintain files in areas of active inquiry and effectively archive all knowledge that could have future value.


• Maintain an awareness of the committee structure and overall governance of the three levels of government.


• As directed, research the history and purpose of policies, and their impact upon students.


• Provide information about University and Governmental policies, procedures, practices, documents, services, programs, and any other information as requested.


• Conduct research into the priorities, policies, and practices of other post-secondary institutions and government jurisdictions, both interprovincial and international, as directed.


• Review, analyze, and suggest amendments to UASU, external institutions and government policies.


• Produce reports, fact sheets, presentations, and other communications relating to government/external interest holder policies and information as directed.


• Provide support as outlined above to other members of the UASU Executive Committee as assigned by the DRA or Executive Committee.


• Attend internal and external meetings as requested by the DRA or Executive Committee.


• Submit a final report to the DRA or Executive Committee.


• Other related duties as requested by the DRA or Executive Committee.

Qualifications and Experience

• Knowledge of statistics and quantitative methods is an asset.


• Ability to analyze financial data, including financial statements, annual returns, and budgets, is an asset.


• Willingness and ability to work varying hours and a commitment to working posted office hours acceptable to the DRA.


• Excellent communication and critical thinking skills.


• Demonstrated creativity and capacity for lateral thinking.


• Ability to work on tight timelines and meet deadlines.


• Knowledge of the post-secondary policy environment and wider policy-making context of the Edmonton City Council, the province of Alberta, and the federal government is an asset.


• Familiarity with the University of Alberta governance and academic climate is an asset.


• Experience drafting and/or interpreting policy is an asset.

Union exempt. In-person work is expected, with remote work available to accommodate unexpected circumstances. 

Questions about the role can be directed to [email protected]

Applications will be accepted until June 30th or until the position is filled.