Graduate Research Assistant Opportunity
Project: Assessing Organizational Learning in Tanzanian Health Facilities

Dr. Shehnaz Alidina is seeking a Graduate Research Assistant to support a cross-sectional health systems research study examining organizational learning in Tanzania’s Lake Zone. The study will assess how approximately 800 healthcare providers across 45 public health facilities perceive the extent to which their organizations function as learning organizations. Using an adapted survey tool, the research explores three core dimensions: supportive learning environments, structured learning processes, and leadership for learning. The findings will generate context-specific evidence to inform system-wide strategies for quality improvement and learning health systems development in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct a literature review on organizational learning in health systems Review and compare learning organization survey (LOS) instruments Support documentation for the adaptation and translation of survey tools Assist with local ethics submission (NMRI) Develop the data collector’s training package Prepare PowerPoint presentations Coordinate meetings with the research team and maintain meeting records Perform other tasks as identified throughout the research process

This position offers valuable experience in global health research, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and the opportunity to contribute to peer-reviewed publications.

Your general location of work will be remotely from your own home/office, and you will report to Dr. Alidina as your supervisor.

Required Number of Hours: Approximately 7 hours per week; additional hours may be required some weeks.

Duration of Employment: September 2025 to March 2026

Qualifications (Skills and Abilities)
Applicants are required to be enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Saskatchewan.

Desirable Skills and Attributes include:

Strong critical reading and synthesis skills Familiarity with survey research and instrument development Attention to detail and strong organizational skills Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines Ability to work effectively with diverse teams, including international collaborators Interest in organizational learning, global health, or health systems Experience using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and survey software (e.g., Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, or similar)

To Apply:
Interested applicants must include the following in their application: cover letter and curriculum vitae. References will be requested for short-listed candidates. Inquiries for this position can be directed to shehnaz.alidina@usask.ca

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted during the week of August 18th for interviews.

Where a graduate student is appointed to this position, it will be in scope of PSAC.