First Nation Education & Policy Research Assistant

Summary

The First Nation Education & Policy Research Assistant is a full-time paid summer internship role. This role will work directly with the Director of Research as an education policy advisor in a research capacity to support various projects and initiatives.

The applicant must bring a strong understanding of the importance of community, culture and language in the Indigenous post-secondary sector. All work completed will be in accordance with the Indigenous Advanced Education and Skills Council (IAESC) mandate, policies, and the Indigenous Institutes Act, 2017.

This position is open to post-secondary students currently enrolled at an Indigenous Institute, College or University. To be eligible to apply, students must be returning to fulltime studies in the Fall.

About the Organization

At IAESC we offer you a challenging and exciting career opportunity that supports the advancement of the Indigenous post-secondary sector in Ontario. IAESC is an independent, non-political organization and not-for-profit organization.

Our mandate is to provide quality assurance for Indigenous Institutes in Ontario. We aim to support Indigenous Institutes in offering high quality culturally relevant programs guided by Indigenous worldviews, knowledge, traditions, and culture. IAESC supports the strengthening of Indigenous education by setting culturally grounded standards that ensure programs meet both Indigenous and academic benchmarks that are recognized across institutions, this means students can carry their credits forward as they continue their learning pathways. Our dedicated staff are also involved in research, partnership development, and other relevant initiatives.

The Indigenous Institutes Act, 2017 (the Act) acknowledges the importance of Indigenous lead education for Indigenous learners in Ontario. Indigenous Institutes are learning spaces where the wellbeing of each learner, Indigenous knowledge, language, worldviews and ways of being come first.

Position Details

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in post-secondary studies at the Bachelor or Master’s level in a

related field of study (Indigenous studies, Indigenous policy, or research focus in

colonial structures, impact of colonization, etc.)

• Must be returning to school in September 2026. Verification of enrolment status

is required.

• Experience working with SharePoint, Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience working with an Indigenous organization or community is considered

an asset.

• Lived experience as a First Nations, Métis or Inuit person with direct experience

and familiarity with your respective community.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the coordination of Research Steering Committee meetings, by

preparing meeting materials and track all planning, priorities and next steps.

• Support research initiatives through the completion of research, writing and

presentation of information.

• Prepare briefing notes as required.
• Identify funding opportunities that support the objectives of IAESC’s strategic

priorities.

• Support the preparation of grant applications.
• Collect, synthesize and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data.
• Tactfully work with confidential and sensitive information.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Preferred Skills and Competencies

• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Strong understanding of ethical data practices.
• Interest in and lived experience with Indigenous education, culture, and

language.

• Superior communication skills.
• Experience in academic writing (publications, journal articles, etc.)
• Strong attention to detail and proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, professionalism, a commitment to lead

by example and dedication to the mission of IAESC.

• Experience in writing, research and preparing of briefing notes.
• An Ontario Driver’s license or other valid license for use in Ontario is an asset.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in English, both oral and written.

Location

The primary workplace location will be a remote work from home setting. There may be

some in person meetings or overnight travel through the course of the summer,

however, ample notice will be provided for planning and travel coordination. Travel

expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with IAESC’s Travel Guidelines.

Fixed-term Employment

Hours of work are 35 hours/week. The position will start in early May and end on

August 29, 2026.

To Apply

Please send your cover letter or letter of interest along with your resume to

communications@iaesc.ca by April 25, 2026, 11:59 P.M. Please include confirmation of

student enrolment status and how you self-identify (First Nations, Métis or Inuit).

Job Type: Internship / Co-op

Pay: $24.00-$26.00 per hour

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Rama, ON