Student Research Assistant - Centre Public Safety Applied Research; CPSAR

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Job Title:

Student Research Assistant - Centre for Public Safety Applied Research (CPSAR)

Appointment Type:
Casual Position

Dates:
October 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027

Hours per week/FTE: 8-10 per week

Join an innovative research project at Lethbridge Polytechnic that uses virtual reality (VR) to assess ethical decision-making in police applicants. This project focuses on creating immersive, inclusive digital scenarios that reflect diverse identities and real-world challenges in public safety.

The Centre for Public Safety Applied Research (CPSAR) is a dynamic hub at Lethbridge Polytechnic where students collaborate with professionals in policing, corrections, courts, and community organizations to tackle real-world public safety issues. Through hands‑on research projects, students gain valuable experience while contributing to innovative solutions that support safer communities.

This position offers hands‑on experience supporting applied research through tasks such as data collection, analysis, logistics coordination, and sharing research findings.

Overall, your duties and responsibilities as a student research assistant on the project may encompass any or all of the following tasks (in addition to specific duties and responsibilities listed by each project):

• Assist with the applied research project focused on public safety, justice, and community well‑being.
• Collaborate with professionals and community partners in policing, corrections, courts, and related sectors.
• Support data collection, analysis, and reporting activities under the guidance of CPSAR researchers.
• Contribute to knowledge mobilization efforts, including presentations, publications, and community outreach.
• Participate in team meetings and interdisciplinary discussions to help shape project direction and outcomes.

• Assist in designing and testing VR scenarios that simulate ethical decision‑making situations.
• Collaborate with community partners, Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, and public safety professionals.
• Help ensure the scenarios reflect intersectionality and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Available to work on campus for the duration of the project.

You are not expected to be fully proficient in all the listed duties and responsibilities at the start of your appointment. This role is designed to support hands‑on learning, and you will receive guidance as you develop your applied research skills. However, certain foundational skills are required from the outset. In addition to project‑specific qualifications, student research assistants should:

• Have an interest in public safety, social justice, or community‑based research.
• Have strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work respectfully across diverse groups.
• Have a basic understanding of research methods and a willingness to learn new tools and techniques.
• Demonstrate the ability to manage time effectively and meet project deadlines.
• Exhibit a commitment to equity, reconciliation, and inclusive practices in research and community engagement.

Preferred Qualifications Salary $19/hr - $22/hr accordingly

• Hands‑on experience in applied research and VR development.
• Skills in data analysis, community engagement, and ethical assessment design.
• Mentorship from experts in criminology, psychology, spatial technologies, and EDI.
• Opportunities to contribute to publications, presentations, and knowledge sharing.

Posting Number C26-00478 Open Date 08/17/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes