Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Indigenous Education & Revitalization — University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada

About the Role

This postdoctoral research fellowship offers a unique opportunity for an emerging scholar to contribute to vital work in Indigenous education and revitalization at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver. The fellow will be embedded within a dynamic research centre or faculty department focused on Indigenous studies, education, or social justice. The core of this role involves conducting independent and collaborative research projects aimed at understanding, supporting, and advancing Indigenous educational sovereignty, language reclamation, and culturally responsive pedagogical practices. This is not merely an academic exercise; the successful candidate will engage deeply with Indigenous communities, knowledge keepers, and educators, ensuring research is relevant, respectful, and reciprocal.

This position is ideal for a scholar with a strong foundation in qualitative research methods, decolonizing methodologies, and a genuine commitment to Indigenous self-determination in education. You will be expected to produce high-quality publications, present at conferences, and contribute to grant applications, all while fostering meaningful relationships with community partners. The role offers intellectual freedom within a supportive academic environment, allowing you to shape your research agenda in collaboration with senior faculty and community mentors.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute independent research projects focusing on Indigenous education, language revitalization, or decolonizing pedagogies.
• Collaborate with faculty members and Indigenous community partners on ongoing research initiatives.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and academic books.
• Present research at national and international conferences and community forums.
• Contribute to the development of grant proposals for external funding opportunities.
• Mentor graduate students and participate in relevant seminars or workshops.
• Engage ethically and respectfully with Indigenous communities, ensuring research protocols align with OCAP® (Ownership, Control, Access, Possession) principles.
• Translate research into actionable recommendations for policy-makers and educational practitioners.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Education, Indigenous Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, or a related field completed within the last five years.
• Demonstrated research expertise in Indigenous education, language revitalization, decolonization, or cultural pedagogy.
• Strong record of scholarly publications and conference presentations, or clear potential for such.
• Proficiency in qualitative research methodologies; experience with community-based participatory research is highly valued.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English; knowledge of an Indigenous language is a significant asset.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Experience engaging respectfully and ethically with Indigenous communities and knowledge systems.
• Commitment to social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Salary & Benefits

The annual salary for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at UBC is competitive and generally aligns with national standards for post-doctoral positions in Canada. Expected salary ranges from CAD $55,000 to $70,000, commensurate with experience and specific project funding. UBC is located in Vancouver, a vibrant but high-cost-of-living city, so fellows are encouraged to research living expenses thoroughly.

Benefits typically include extended health and dental coverage, an employee assistance program, and access to UBC's extensive professional development resources and facilities. While housing is not usually provided, UBC offers resources and guidance for finding accommodation. Opportunities for grant writing and professional networking are abundant, supporting future career progression in academia or related fields. Some positions may also include a travel allowance for research-related activities and conferences.

What a Typical Day Looks Like

A typical day might begin with reviewing literature for your current research project on Indigenous language immersion programs, followed by a virtual meeting with community elders and project partners to discuss data collection protocols for an upcoming study. The afternoon could involve analyzing qualitative data using NVivo, drafting sections of a journal article, or mentoring a graduate student on their thesis. You might also attend a departmental seminar on decolonizing research methodologies or contribute to a grant application with a senior faculty member. Your days will be a blend of intense intellectual work, collaborative engagement, and community interaction, all focused on meaningful outcomes.

Career Growth & Outlook

This postdoctoral fellowship provides an exceptional launching pad for a career in academia, particularly for those aspiring to faculty positions in Indigenous Studies, Education, or related disciplines. The Canadian academic landscape, especially in British Columbia, has a strong and growing commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous scholarship, leading to increasing demand for specialists in this field. Successful fellows often secure tenure-track positions, research directorships, or senior policy roles within government or Indigenous organizations.

Beyond academia, the expertise gained in community engagement, culturally responsive research, and policy analysis is highly valued in non-profit organizations, educational policy think tanks, and Indigenous governance bodies. The interdisciplinary nature of the work also opens doors to various research and leadership opportunities across sectors.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit a comprehensive application package including a CV, a cover letter outlining their research interests and how they align with the objectives of Indigenous education and revitalization at UBC, a research proposal (2-3 pages) detailing a potential postdoctoral project, and contact information for three academic referees. Transcripts and a writing sample (e.g., a published paper or dissertation chapter) may also be required. Applications are typically reviewed by a committee, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Refer to the UBC careers website or specific faculty pages for current opportunities and detailed application instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How integrated is this role with Indigenous communities? A: Community engagement is central to this fellowship. You will be expected to build and maintain respectful relationships with Indigenous communities, ensuring that your research is co-developed and directly benefits those communities, adhering to principles of Indigenous data sovereignty.

Q: What kind of mentorship will I receive? A: You will work closely with a faculty supervisor who is an established scholar in Indigenous education. Additionally, you will have access to mentorship from Indigenous elders and community leaders, providing a rich and multifaceted support system.

Q: Are there opportunities to teach during the fellowship? A: While the primary focus is research, opportunities to co-teach a course, deliver guest lectures, or facilitate workshops may be available, depending on departmental needs and your career goals. This can be a valuable experience for those aiming for faculty positions.

Q: What resources are available for Indigenous scholars? A: UBC has various resources, including the Indigenous Research Support Initiative, the First Nations House of Learning, and specific funds and networks for Indigenous graduate students and postdocs. These provide cultural support, academic resources, and networking opportunities.