About the Role Reporting to the Manager of the Knowledge Hub, the Lead Research Advisor provides strategic research leadership for the Indigenous Languages Knowledge Hub and supports OCIL's mandate to advance Indigenous language preservation, revitalization, reclamation, and promotion across Canada. The position leads complex research initiatives, develops research frameworks and methodologies, coordinates partnerships, and ensures excellence in support of organizational priorities and legislative obligations. The Lead Research Advisor works closely with Indigenous communities, governments, academics, language experts, and partners to generate evidence, identify emerging trends, and produce high-quality research that informs policy, programs, and Indigenous language revitalization efforts.. Key Responsibilities Strategic Research Leadership - Lead the design and implementation of national research projects and initiatives. - Develop research frameworks, methodologies, standards, and work plans. - Provide strategic advice on Indigenous language research trends, priorities, and opportunities. - Identify research gaps and emerging issues affecting Indigenous languages and language revitalization. - Contribute to the development of annual and multi-year research agendas. - Works effectively across teams and contributes to Knowledge Hub and organizational priorities. Research Project Management - Lead and oversee multiple research projects from planning through completion. - Coordinate internal and external researchers, consultants, contractors, and partners. - Monitor project timelines, budgets, deliverables, and performance measures. - Ensure projects align with OCIL priorities, strategic plans, and Indigenous community needs. - Support the development of project charters and partnership agreements. Indigenous Language Research and Analysis - Conduct and oversee qualitative, quantitative, and Indigenous methodologies. - Synthesize evidence from multiple sources into actionable findings. - Analyze trends related to language vitality, demographics, language documentation, mapping, and emerging technologies. - Support research related to Indigenous Languages Act reporting requirements. - Develop reports, briefing materials, position papers, and recommendations. Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Governance - Promote and apply principles of Indigenous data sovereignty, ownership, access, control, and stewardship. - Ensure ethical, culturally appropriate, and community-centered research practices. - Advise on research governance frameworks and protocols. - Support the respectful collection, management, sharing, and use of Indigenous language data. Partnerships and Engagement - Build and maintain relationships with Indigenous governments, organizations, communities, academic institutions, and research networks. - Facilitate collaborative research initiatives and partnerships. - Support engagement activities, advisory committees, and knowledge-sharing forums. - Represent OCIL at meetings, conferences, and working groups. Knowledge Mobilization - Translate research findings into accessible products for diverse audiences. - Support the development of reports, fact sheets, toolkits, dashboards, and knowledge resources. - Contribute to public awareness and knowledge-sharing initiatives. - Provide strategic advice to support evidence-informed decision-making throughout the organization. Qualifications Education and Experience - Master's degree in Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Linguistics Education, Research Methodology, or a related field. - Significant involvement (3 - 5+ years) of progressively responsible experience conducting and leading research initiatives. - Experience working alongside Indigenous communities, organizations, governments, or language revitalization initiatives. - Experience managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and partners. - Experience developing research methodologies and leading evidence-based analysis. Knowledge and Expertise - Strong understanding of Indigenous language revitalization, documentation, reclamation, or language policy, including the Indigenous Languages Act and the TRC Calls to Action. - Experience with geographic information systems (GIS), digital knowledge repositories, archival research, or emerging technologies. - Knowledge of Indigenous data sovereignty frameworks and ethical research standards. Skills and Competencies - Knowledge of Indigenous research methodologies and ethical research practices. - Advanced qualitative and quantitative research and analytical skills. - Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. - Strong project management and organizational skills. - Excellent written communication, report writing, and presentation skills. - Ability to build collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholder groups. - Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. - Strong facilitation, consultation, and engagement skills. - High degree of cultural competency, humility, and respect when working with Indigenous Peoples and communities. Assets - Doctoral degree in a related discipline is an asset. - Proficiency in an Indigenous language and bilingualism (English/French). What We Offer The Commission offers a competitive benefits package, including medical and dental benefits and a pension plan. The Commission offers a wonderful, supportive work environment, with opportunities for career development, mentorship, and professional development. Éducation et expérience - Maîtrise en études autochtones, sciences sociales, politiques publiques, éducation linguistique, méthodologie de recherche ou domaine conn