Position Title: Research Assistant
Department: Department of Adult Education, Dr. Wellington Sousa
Position Type: Term (Fall 2026)
Classification: Casual, approximately 10 hours/week
Hourly Rate: $20/hour
Posting Date: July 15, 2026
Closing Date: August 10, 2026
Community-Based Research & Asset-Based Community-Led Development
Dr. Wellington Sousa, in the Department of Adult Education at St. Francis Xavier University, invites applications for a paid undergraduate research position connected to his research program in community-based research, Asset-Based Community-Led Development (ABCD), adult education, community-university partnerships, and community-led change.
Current research activities examine how community and university actors work together and explore ways to amplify and foster community protagonism and leadership in processes of knowledge production for social change. The broader research program explores ABCD, community-based research, and adult education as approaches to strengthening community leadership and reimagining the role of universities in supporting community-led change.
This position is intended for a curious and thoughtful student interested in growing as an emerging researcher. Prior research experience is welcome but not required, and students early in their degree are especially encouraged to apply. Fluency in Portuguese and/or Spanish is an asset.
The successful candidate will contribute to activities such as literature reviews, research summaries, qualitative research preparation and analysis, workshop preparation and facilitation, knowledge mobilization, and collaborative reflection. They will also be encouraged to develop and pursue their own emerging research interests in connection with the current project and broader research program.
What you will gain
This position offers an opportunity to develop research and writing skills, learn about qualitative and community-based research, receive mentorship, participate in a collaborative research environment, explore connections among ABCD, adult education, community development, social justice, and contribute to research that seeks to strengthen community-led knowledge production and change.
Appointment details
This is a paid hourly position for the Fall 2026 term, approximately 10 hours per week. Renewal may be possible, subject to funding, performance, and mutual interest.
How to apply
Students interested in joining this research program are invited to submit a résumé and a short statement to Dr. Sousa at [email protected] by August 10, 2026.
The statement should be no more than two single-spaced pages and should explain your interest in and potential contribution to this opportunity, what you hope to learn as an emerging researcher, and one or two research topics or questions you would be interested in exploring as part of the research program, including why they are meaningful to you.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview to discuss their interests, research goals, and the opportunity. If you have any questions about the position or the research program, feel free to get in touch.
Students from all disciplines are welcome to apply.
