Job Description

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The Centre for Media, Technology and Democracy and Media Ecosystem Observatory at McGill University is seeking applications for a full-time Academic Associate position with expertise in conducting research on misinformation, disinformation, and on the information ecosystem in general. The candidate will be joining the Observatory and Centre at a stimulating time of growth and expansion and will manage and help drive a growing research agenda through overseeing and collaborating with research fellows, researchers, students, and staff.
The successful applicant will:be an excellent communicator and writer, capable of distilling complex ideas into simple, accessible language for a range of stakeholders; have published in the area of misinformation, disinformation, and information ecosystem studies, and be familiar with the academic publishing process; have extensive experience working with digital trace and survey data, including collecting, managing, sharing, and analyzing data from social media platforms and online survey panels; have extensive Python, R, SQL, and other applicable programming experience.

The successful application may:Be able to communicate effectively in French

Specific duties:
Under the Direction of the Observatory and Centre leadership, the successful candidate will be expected to fulfill the following duties:Conduct and lead original research into misinformation, disinformation, and the information ecosystem in Canada and comparable countries around the world; Supervise and manage a team of analysts to pursue a research agenda to improve our understanding of misinformation, disinformation, and other research subjects in the area of information ecosystem studies; Build and grow successful relationships with a diverse group of researchers, policy-makers, and stakeholders working on the information ecosystem; Provide general support to research activities where needed.

Contract DetailsThis position is a full-time contract position for one and a half (1.5) years.

SalaryThe salary will be commensurate with experience and education level.

EducationPhD (in-progress or completed preferred) or; Master's degree in Communication Studies, Media Studies, Environmental Studies, Economics, Public Policy, Sociology or cognate field.

The following supporting documents are required:A cover letter Curriculum vitae The names and contact information of two references

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.



McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

McGill University is committed to equity and diversity within its community and values academic rigour and excellence. We welcome and encourage applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities.

At McGill, research that reflects diverse intellectual traditions, methodologies, and modes of dissemination and translation is valued and encouraged. Candidates are invited to demonstrate their research impact both within and across academic disciplines and in other sectors, such as government, communities, or industry.

McGill further recognizes and fairly considers the impact of leaves (e.g., family care or health-related) that may contribute to career interruptions or slowdowns. Candidates are encouraged to signal any leave that affected productivity, or that may have had an effect on their career path. This information will be considered to ensure the equitable assessment of the candidate's record.

McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated equity groups to self-identify. It further seeks to ensure the equitable treatment and full inclusion of persons with disabilities by striving for the implementation of universal design principles transversally, across all facets of the University community, and through accommodation policies and procedures. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.