Research Acceleration & Strategic Initiatives (RASI) supports the university research community in the incubation and development of research grants, infrastructure projects and initiatives. A key goal of the office is to provide researchers and the university with services and programs that afford a competitive edge when applying for external research funding.

Primary Purpose: Reporting to the Senior Research Specialist, the Research Specialist supports the development of competitive large-scale and institutional research proposals by providing project management assistance, drafting and editing key sections of proposals and managing programs to support research proposal development and special projects.

Nature of Work: This position will work as an essential member of RASI, to substantively contribute to cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary research proposals. The Research Specialist will take initiative to deliver exceptional service to USask research stakeholders through the delivery of tailored support to strengthen grant-funding proposals, and by assisting in developing and delivering programs and services that support the development of research capacity.

This position requires in-depth knowledge spanning provincial and federal research funding opportunities to effectively assist faculty with research proposal development. The incumbent will be required to work independently, but also as part of a team environment and across administrative boundaries. The work is highly challenging and this position would have responsibility for ensuring that inflexible deadlines are met. Extended and non-standard hours may occasionally be required. The ability to take initiative, coupled with strong problem solving skills, is essential for success in this position.

Accountabilities:

• Work independently and as part of a team to provide specialized expertise and services in proposal development, including project management support, substantive grant editing, drafting of key proposal components, budget development, peer review support, and portal support, for researchers leading large-scale and institutional proposals.
• On behalf of RASI, manage the delivery of institutional and internal grant programs by providing professional services and program support, including information sessions, workshops, etc.
• Design proposal development materials, provide expert advice, and support post-award project launch while ensuring adherence with university and relevant funding agency requirements.
• Contribute to the success of the RASI team by undertaking special projects of strategic importance to the unit as assigned.
• Perform background research, such as environmental scans, etc. to inform proposal or research cluster development.
• Build collaborative relationships and partnerships within the university and with funding agencies to effectively share information.
• Maintain excellent knowledge of the Canadian funding landscape.

Education: A graduate degree; a PhD is an asset for this position. A combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

Experience: The incumbent should have:

• a minimum of 5 years of related experience in a post-secondary setting, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience;
• expert knowledge of the Canadian funding landscape, with an emphasis on large-scale and institutional granting opportunities;
• proposal development and substantive editing experience; and
• an appreciation of the complexities, challenges and rewards of research.

Skills:

• Demonstrated strong writing skills and excellent communications skills
• Demonstrated ability to deliver proactive, user-oriented services to stakeholders
• Proven interpersonal skills coupled with the ability to work flexibly both within a team and independently
• Effective time management skills with the ability to react to shifting priorities
• Strong organization skills and proven ability to manage multiple tasks with tight timelines
• Ability to exercise judgment, tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality
• Knowledge of university research administrative procedures and practices

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Sara Mueller at [email protected].

Department: Research Acceleration and Strategic Initiatives
Status: Term 20 months with the possibility of extension
Employment Group: ASPA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $69,035.00 - 107,868.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2
Posted Date: 8/29/2025
Closing Date: 10/9/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.