MSc Position – Evaluation and Optimization of Enteric Illness Outbreak Public Health Communications - Research Affiliate Program

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Assessment accommodation

Duties

In Canada, the investigation of multi-jurisdictional enteric illness outbreaks is coordinated at the federal level by the Outbreak Management Division at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC-OMD). During investigations, public communication is a key public health intervention used by PHAC-OMD to notify Canadians about an ongoing outbreak and advise them about measures they can take to protect their health. Although a significant amount of resources are dedicated to public communications during these investigations, a formal evaluation has not been conducted to determine if these communications are reaching the targeted population and impacting their behaviour.

We are recruiting up to 3 thesis-based Master of Science students to work on projects related to the evaluation and optimization of public communications products. The students may be involved with the following: writing literature reviews, administering surveys, conducting focus groups/interviews, conducting quantitative/qualitative analyses, synthesizing research findings, and providing recommendations. The students will be expected to deliver a report and/or presentation to the Public Health Agency of Canada, in addition to the thesis.

Work environment

Every year, about 4 million (1 in 8) Canadians are affected by a foodborne illness. There is work to be done to prevent and control enteric illnesses in Canada, and you can help make a difference! The Public Health Agency of Canada’s Centre for Foodborne, Environmental and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases is recruiting for Master of Science students to join the Outbreak Management Division.

As an Outbreak Management Division student at the Public Health Agency of Canada, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn how multi-jurisdictional enteric outbreaks are detected, assessed, and investigated;
• Contribute to project work that enhances outbreak detection and response activities;
• Develop a network of peers in the public health epidemiology community.

Intent of the process

The intention is to staff up to 3 RAP student positions for completion of a thesis-based Master of Science degree in the Department of Population Medicine at the University of Guelph. This opportunity will start in September 2022 and will finish in August 2024 (or depending on the candidate’s availability or needs).
It is expected that the student will work 16 hours per week.

Positions to be filled: 3

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A covering letter

A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Education
Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized post-secondary institution in science, public health, communications or a related field.

The student must be currently enrolled or willing to enroll in a thesis-based Master of Science (MSc) program in the Department of Population Medicine at the University of Guelph under the co-supervision of Dr. Lauren Grant and Dr. Jennifer McWhirter. Note: Proof of enrollment will be required prior to start date.

Interested students should submit an application to Dr. Lauren Grant before completing this RAP application.

Degree equivalency

Experience
In the context of student recruitment in the federal public service, experience can be acquired through studies, work experience or volunteer activities.

o Experience with conducting interviews and/or focus groups
o Experience with survey design and/or implementation
o Experience conducting quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis
o Experience conducting research and synthesizing findings

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

Knowledge:
Knowledge of health communications principles
Knowledge of public health issues related to enteric infections and food safety

Competencies:
o Showing initiative and being action-oriented
o Demonstrate integrity and respect
o Planning and organization
o Analytical thinking
o Working effectively with others

Abilities:
o Ability to communicate effectively in writing
o Ability to communicate effectively orally
o Ability to take guided initiative and to work in an organized fashion within a fast-paced environment, including flexibility in shifting between independent and collaborative work and demonstrate collegiality and professionalism

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the designated groups when you apply.

Information on employment equity

Preference

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.