Mandate/Core Purpose Of The Role

Reporting to the Manager, Grant Funded Research Personnel, the Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) Administrator will provide a single point of contact for the UVic community, including faculty members, staff, as well as current, former, and prospective PDFs, for all PDF-related inquiries. The PDF Administrator will also provide ongoing support to all PDFs at UVic throughout the duration of their term(s), including fielding questions, onboarding new PDFs, and coordinating the development and delivery of professional development and training opportunities.

The position will be a key resource for faculty supervisors and academic units in matters related to recruitment, appointment, management, and tracking of PDFs, providing expert advice regarding the policies and practices that govern them. The position will also manage internal and external funding schemes targeted to PDFs, including UVic’s Aspiration Postdoctoral Fellowships and Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships. The position will serve a large and diverse population of PDFs, requiring excellent interpersonal and communication skills, diplomacy, and cultural sensitivity.

Objective

Work closely with faculty members, academic units and PDFs to provide advice and support. Provide education and training to enhance the career development of PDFs and facilitate the recruitment and hiring of PDFs by faculty members. Collect, organize, analyze, and interpret diverse sets of information. Build UVic’s capacity to host PDFs and to attract funding for PDF-driven research.

Qualifications

A graduate degree and three years of work experience relevant to the primary responsibilities outlined. A combination of academic training and work experience may be considered.

Commitment to valuing the principles of truth, reconciliation and respect, equity diversity and inclusion, and contributing to an inclusive and respectful working and learning environment. Knowledge of human resource management principles, laws and practices. Excellent communication, interpersonal and conflict resolution skills Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality. Experience with advising students, researchers, faculty, or other individuals on processes, procedures, and policies. Ability to collect, organize, analyze and interpret diverse sets of information to address various inquiries and make informed decisions. Ability to prepare clear and concise written materials including reports, briefing materials, and web content.

Core competencies

Ability to navigate conflict and engage in problem solving; Build relationships and develop partnerships- identify ways to promote collaboration, partnership and cross-organizational activities that share knowledge and pool resource. Be socially and culturally responsive- proactive in seeking information about the social and cultural issues that contribute to UVic’s diversity. Remain Agile- adapt to changing business needs, conditions, and work responsibilities.

The Following Would Be Considered Assets

Understanding of the post-secondary research system across disciplines in BC, Canada and other jurisdictions; Familiarity with UVic’s structure including academic and non-academic departments, programs, and services as well as research centres and entities; Research experience obtained in graduate studies or in a career; Experience as a Postdoctoral Fellow, or in administering PDF-relevant programs. Familiarity with UVIC’s Payroll and Research Accounting processes