Job Description

Research Assistant - Term position

Natural Language Processing Research Project

Regina Campus



The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) allows students of all nations to learn in an environment of First Nations cultures and values. The University continues to uphold its mission of enhancing the quality of life and preserving, protecting, and interpreting First Nations people's history, language, culture, and artistic heritage. FNUniv is a unique learning place specializing in Indigenous knowledge and providing post-secondary education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students within a culturally supportive environment.



The First Nations University of Canada is a federated college of the University of Regina, and its academic programs are accredited through that institution.



FNUniv's values include wisdom, respect, humility, sharing, harmony, beauty, strength, and spirituality.



The National Language Processing Research Project



Natural Language Processing (NLP) refers to the computer processing of (Indigenous) natural languages (i.e., human languages, as opposed to, say, computer programming languages). NLP presents significant challenges, particularly with languages for which there is limited documentation and data available, which includes most Indigenous languages. On the other hand, in recent years there has been an explosion of new tools under the broad classification of "machine learning" which can assist with NLP.



The project will be led by a team of Indigenous language professionals, programmers, and mathematicians. Final deliverables will include a completed and published guide, a sustainability and usage plan, and a full evaluation report. All reporting will follow the Canadian Heritage Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program templates, ensuring accountability and transparency. Ultimately, this project will empower Saskatchewan communities and Indigenous communities throughout the world to reclaim and strengthen their languages.

Duties:

Assist in providing software development and programming support to the research team, including manipulating files on GitHub, writing and debugging software, compiling software, and delivering well documented and working executables to the research team. Assist in the development of databases of Indigenous languages for use with the software Assist in preparing software for wide deployment on app stores, web pages, and as downloads. Document work and present on work when necessary; document software well Prepare and format research findings, including reports, presentations, data visualizations for internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, preferably in fields related to Computer Science, Mathematics, and Languages. Ability to communicate proficiently in English, with the ability to present research findings clearly and professionally; some knowledge of a language other than English; some knowledge of an Indigenous language would be an asset Ability to work in a software development team, meeting deadlines with quality work (e.g., working, robust, and well documented), and to communicate effectively with the team Proficiency in git, Flutter, Dart, and database technology such as Sqflite. Demonstrated interest in Indigenous languages and language preservation would be an asset.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online at www.fnuniv.ca.

Closing Date:

December 2, 2025



We would like to thank you for your interest and to all those that applied; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The First Nations University of Canada relies on section 48 of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code to give preference in employment for this position. Please indicate your status in your cover letter or resume.



Questions regarding this opportunity can be directed by email at humanresources@firstnationsuniversity.ca We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. However, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.