Research Specialist, Data

at  The Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada

Job Title: Research Specialist
Location: Remote within Canada
Department: Data
Reports To: Senior Manager, Data
Starting Salary Range: $59,707.19 - $68,838.71 (grade 4)
Job InformationCome join the AFMC team, where innovation in medical education meets a flexible and supportive work environment! As a team, we hold a deep commitment to a set of core values that guide our every action. Integrity is our foundation. Collaboration is our driving force. Engagement is vital. Equity is at the heart of our mission. Lastly, innovation propels us forward. We’re proud to offer a remote work setting that not only allows you to contribute from the comfort of your home but also promotes work-life balance through a 35-hour workweek and flexible scheduling options. In addition to an empowering and collaborative culture, AFMC provides an excellent benefits package, ensuring your well-being is our priority. And let’s not forget about the future: we offer a defined benefit pension program through HOOPP, setting you on the path towards financial security in your retirement years. Experience the unique blend of purposeful work and quality of life at AFMC!

JOB SUMMARY:

As a member of the Data team, the Specialist, Research will work collaboratively with content experts to develop questionnaires, build surveys, coordinate and track data collections (including administrative data transfers), and analyze and report on metadata and survey findings. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Data, the incumbent will coordinate the timely production of a diverse array of statistical and analytical reports derived from AFMC’s databases. The role also involves the drafting of written communications to be included in annual reports, conference presentations, special reports, and accreditation data service requests.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare reports and metrics to track progress on our social accountability mandate. This includes, but is not limited to, producing findings based on faculty level surveys on equity, diversity and inclusion; Anti-Racism initiatives; admissions processes and targets; faculty diversity and recruitment strategies.
• Develop AFMC surveys such as the ASQ (MD Entry, Pre-Clerkship, and GQ), Independent Student Analysis, Zero Survey and other internal and/or external surveys as required.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, Faculty of Medicine leaders, and stakeholders to design, administer, and support survey data initiatives that advance academic medicine and healthcare in Canada.
• Provide end-to-end support of research surveys, including stakeholder requirements gathering, questionnaire design, survey building in AFMC’s platform, contact list management, testing, survey deployment, response monitoring, and final data analysis and reporting.
• Utilize tools such as Excel, SAS, R, SQL, and inbuilt reporting capabilities within AFMC’s survey platform to analyze data, visualize trends and generate meaningful insights.
• Prepare clear, audience-specific reports and analyses that turn data into actionable insights to guide decision-making, ensuring data integrity and accuracy. Support time-sensitive reporting requests by producing descriptive statistical summaries, including response rates, cross-tabulations, and ad hoc reports for internal and external clients.
• Develop project timelines, monitor progress, and report on deliverables. Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth survey administration, addressing and resolving any issues related to survey and content management.
• Create promoting materials and supporting documents for internal and/or external surveys as required.
• Adhere to high standards of data privacy, confidentiality and quality.
• Willing to travel occasionally and work flexible hours to meet deadlines, as required; and
• Other duties as assigned.

What you’ll need to be successful in the role (essential qualifications):

• Bachelor or postgraduate degree in social sciences with a focus on quantitative research, in a related field or equivalent experience.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of research projects that support the strategic initiatives of the AFMC.
• Identify and apply the appropriate quantitative or qualitative methodologies to produce analyses in support of key research projects.
• Have applied knowledge of survey methodologies (e.g., weighting, design), technologies, data processing steps, and statistical software (SAS, SPSS).
• A good understanding of population level/official statistics pertaining to relevant socio-demographic and diversity indicators (i.e., census estimates, methodology, and terminology surrounding population subgroups)
• Ensure the effective collection, processing, documentation, and reporting of data, escalating potential issues early.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Translate complex data findings into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
• Be familiar with and committed to following good data governance principles and best practices in data management.
• Liaise between internal and external teams in a diplomatic and respectful manner to ensure the smooth progression of research projects.
• Demonstrate ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Have strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries.
• Bilingualism in English and French