This position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

Working for the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is teeming with change makers, community builders, and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to more than 40,000 students in 200+ undergraduate and 500+ graduate programs, over 13,000 faculty and staff, 260,000 alumni worldwide and have been recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers for over a decade.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross section of people—from our students and stakeholders, to our renowned researchers and innovators who are quite literally curing diseases, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger, and more just.

Position Summary

This position is a part of the Housing for Health (H4H) project led by Dr. Karen Lee. This multi-sectoral project aims to improve the built environment of two new pilot housing developments and the surrounding neighborhoods in Edmonton, Leduc, and Whitecourt, Alberta, to better support active living, healthy eating and social connections for aging populations.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) to undertake Geographical Information Systems (GIS) assessments for the project. Tasks will include but are not limited to: research design, data collection, data analysis, and data dissemination via conference presentations, reports, and peer-reviewed publications.

The PDF will conduct geospatial data analysis and management using open-source geographic information and relational database management systems (ArcGIS, QGIS, PostgreSQL, PostGIS) with proprietary and open-source data sources (e.g., DMTI, Municipal Government, OSM), compile and manage spatial and non-spatial data, and build and design cartographic/mapping visualizations. The PDF may also be required to create geographic variables using Global Positioning System (GPS), GIS, and accelerometer data using software such as ArcGIS and HABITUS, and/or complete built environment audits using observational methods.

Other responsibilities include: coordination with other project staff and PDFs, communication with project coinvestigators, assisting in the supervision of graduate students, preparing ethics applications, and grant writing as needed.

The PDF will be required to have completed their PhD within the last 5-years. They should specialize in Architecture, Urban Planning, Public Health, or a related-field, and have training and experience doing built environment assessments using GIS methods. Experience working with GPS and accelerometer data, doing built environment audits using observational methods, and knowledge and/or experience in the public health field are considered assets. The PDF should have strong written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal and organizational skills, and should enjoy working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

The PDF’s primary appointment will be at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, AB; however the PDF is may be required to travel to Alberta cities outside of Edmonton to undertake data collection and meetings as needed.

The PDF’s salary is $50,000/year and this position offers a benefits package found at Postdoctoral Fellows Benefits.

The PDF is expected to apply for major funding opportunities they are eligible for (e.g., CIHR, Alberta Innovates).

To Apply:

Forward your cover letter, CV, a relevant manuscript you have written as lead author, and the names and contact information of three references to:

1. Dr. Karen Lee, MD, MHSc

Director, Housing for Health, Division of Preventive Medicine

Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

kkl1@ualberta.ca

2. Jodie Stearns, PhD

Research and Evaluation Manager, Housing for Health, Division of Preventive

Medicine Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

jodie.stearns@ualberta.ca