Location: Remote (within Canada), Ottawa based preferred
Reports to: CEO
Type: Flexible (full-time or part-time) for the right candidate.
The Sport Information Resource Centre (SIRC) is Canada’s leader in sport knowledge and insight. We connect research to practice, mobilize knowledge, and support the Canadian sport system in making evidence-informed decisions. We are seeking a Research Lead to help shape the next chapter of SIRC’s research and impact.
This is a strategic and applied role. The successful candidate will bring strong research expertise, excellent communication skills, and a passion for Canadian sport. Working closely with the CEO and leadership team, you’ll lead projects that respond to the needs of our partners, while also helping SIRC anticipate future trends, generate actionable insights, and drive sector-wide impact.
Core Responsibilities
Research Design & Delivery
- Conceptualize and write proposals for large-scale research, data collection and evaluation projects (e.g., literature reviews, environmental scans, surveys, interviews, focus groups).
- Design and adapt measurement frameworks and tools (e.g., logic models, RE-AIM, ROI, questionnaires, surveys, interview guides).
- Lead or oversee data collection and analysis (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods).
Ensure methodological rigor and assess the strength of evidence in research reports and academic studies.
Team & Project Management
- Manage major research projects end-to-end including budgets, contracts, timelines, and deliverables.
- Oversee contractors, consultants, and research assistants on projects.
- Mentor and manage research assistants (undergraduate, master’s, and PhD-level) on a project-by-project basis.
- Collaborate across SIRC teams to embed insights into programs, partnerships, and communications.
Knowledge Mobilization & Sector Impact
- Translate findings into accessible, engaging knowledge products (reports, executive summaries, presentations, infographics, digital content).
- Ensure evidence is tailored for diverse audience (NSOs, PSOs, community sport, government, public).
- Share insights with partners and the broader sport community through sector presentations, conferences, and direct engagement.
- Contribute to elevating SIRC’s external profile through evidence-driven thought leadership.
Resource Stewardship
- Oversee and manage the resources hosted on SIRC’s website, ensuring they remain relevant, timely, and responsive to the needs of the Canadian sport sector.
- Curate, update, and promote resources that reflect best practices and emerging evidence.
- Maintain SIRC’s role as the national hub for sport knowledge through high-quality, accessible resources.
Strategic Foresight & Impact Measurement
- Conduct trend analyses and environmental scans to inform SIRC’s priorities and partner needs.
- Support the implementation of SIRC’s research and impact measurement strategy, including key performance indicators and reporting frameworks.
- Identify gaps and emerging themes in Canadian sport research to guide future work.
Required Skills & Experience
- PhD in Kinesiology, Sport Science, Sport Management, or a related field; or a research-based Master’s degree with 5+ years of research experience.
- Expertise in quantitative methods and statistical analysis; familiarity with qualitative or mixed methods an asset.
- Skilled at managing multiple projects from design to delivery, including financial oversight.
- Strong critical thinking, editing, and writing skills.
- Excellent ability to interpret data, generate tailored recommendations, and translate research into actionable insights.
- Familiarity with the Canadian sport landscape and passion for advancing safe, inclusive, and impactful sport.
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite, survey platforms (e.g., SurveyMonkey), and data analysis tools.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently in a remote environment.
Preferred Skills
- Bilingual (English and French).
- Experience in a not-for-profit
- Knowledge of program evaluation methods.
- Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Teams, Google Docs, Canva, and project management platforms (e.g., Monday.com).
- Understanding of the Government of Canada style guide and APA format.
Why Join SIRC?
At SIRC, you’ll join a collaborative, passionate team dedicated to strengthening Canadian sport through knowledge and insight. We value curiosity, integrity, and impact. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to shape national conversations, inform key decisions, and contribute to a safer, stronger, and more inclusive sport system.