30 Apr, 2015

IMFG seeks a Research Assistant

A full-time Research Assistant (RA) is being sought for a minimum three month period, commencing no later than June 1, 2015. The application deadline is May 11, 2015.

The successful applicant will be responsible for supporting a number of IMFG’s exciting research projects and other programs, in issue areas ranging from city finance and governance to transportation funding and big data.

The core responsibilities for the RA role will focus on research assistance and support for IMFG research, events, and programming, including:

  • Literature reviews and comparative research;
  • Assisting in scoping new projects;
  • Finding, analyzing, and using data sets (e.g. charts or graphs, conceptualizing infographics)
  • Writing, editing, and other contributions to IMFG publications;
  • Identifying project stakeholders and research partners; and
  • Other tasks as needed.

If applicable, the RA could also support other IMFG functions including:

  • Communications, graphic design, and social media support;
  • Executive assistance to the Director (e.g. help with preparation of presentations and speeches, communications)

Hours of work will be approximately 35 hours per week. Direct supervision will be provided by Enid Slack, IMFG Director, and Murtaza Haider, IMFG Visiting Scholar. RAs must have access to their own computer and workspace.

Hourly Rate of Pay: $25.00/hour (includes 4% vacation pay).

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Graduate student at the University of Toronto in a discipline related to municipal finance and governance, such as economics, public policy, urban planning, political science, and other areas of relevance to IMFG’s mandate.
  • Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently, to prioritize among different research tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Previous university level research experience, including experience with quantitative research methods, and data collection and manipulation (e.g. Excel and other software).
  • Graphic design and social media skills (e.g. Twitter, Facebook) are an asset.
  • Previous experience working in local government is an asset.

Application Process:

Interested applicants should send a CV and a cover letter of no longer than one page describing their interest in the role and their qualifications to:

Dina Graser, IMFG, at  dina.graser@utoronto.ca

The application deadline is May 11, 2015.