Educational Research Assistant, Faculty of Engineering

at  McMaster University

EDUCATION LEVEL

Completed or currently enrolled in a relevant post-secondary program.

DEPARTMENT, UNIT OR PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

This project brings together experts from McMaster Library Accessibility Services, the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Chemistry, and the Office of the VP, Teaching and Learning to address an important gap in digital accessibility. Together, we aim to refine and enhance alternative text (alt text) for complex STEM diagrams, making educational content more inclusive and effective for students with disabilities.
Are you a STEM enthusiast who uses assistive technology and has faced barriers with inaccessible digital content? If so, your expertise can help shape the experience of accessible education for students with disabilities.
As a STEM-focused Alternative Text User Tester, you will test alt text descriptions for technical STEM diagrams using assistive technologies. You will also provide detailed feedback on clarity, accuracy, and relevancy, particularly for diagrams featuring scientific terminology and complex visuals.

JOB SUMMARY:

Provide support and contributions to pedagogical research projects or course/curriculum (re)design efforts. Work is performed under general direction and guidance, and might include the collection of data, basic data analysis or contributions to the development/review of course or program materials.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Assist in the development of research protocols and/or instructional materials
• Work with faculty/staff partners or project leads to gather data, perform basic data analysis, and compile reports
• Apply established research methodology or pedagogical principles to ensure sound project design and delivery
• Record and maintain accurate records.
• Conduct literature searches to support the research or course/curriculum development project.
• Seek guidance and direction from project faculty/staff and provide information and advice as appropriate.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Completed or currently enrolled in a relevant post-secondary program.
Experience: Prior experience in a research environment or related coursework would be an asset.

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY STATEMENT

McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement.
The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.
The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey through the online application submission process. The Survey questionnaire requests voluntary self-identification in relation to equity-seeking groups that have historically faced and continue to face barriers in employment. Please refer to the Applicant Diversity Survey - Statement of Collection for additional information.

Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:

• Human Resources Service Centre at 905-525-9140 ext. 222-HR (22247), or
• Faculty of Health Sciences HR Office at ext. 22207, or
• School of Graduate Studies at ext. 23679

to communicate accommodation needs.

INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE

At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in-person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to talent@mcmaster.ca or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.

• Preferably an upper year student in Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Math.
• Or a proven academic background in these fields.
• A working computer (laptop or desktop) and a stable, secure internet connection