Funded by the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, SIM Social Work Research Lab aims
to strengthen, innovate, and mobilize simulation-based research on social work education and
practice. This is the first and only social work-specific, simulation-based research lab in North
America. We engage in two types of research: (1) research on simulation-based teaching and
learning (e.g., the use of trained actors, virtual simulated clients) in professional education, and
(2) research that uses simulation as a novel methodology to conceptualize and research
professional practice (e.g., competence-based skills, linking theory to practice, the use of self).
The co-directors of the SIM lab (https://carleton.ca/socialwork/simlab/) in the School of Social
Work at Carleton University invite applications from qualified candidates for a postdoctoral
fellowship for up to 24 months, beginning as early as summer 2020.
The fellowship will be supervised by Professor Sarah Todd, an established scholar on professional
education and a 3M National Teaching Fellow. The successful candidate will also work closely
with Professor Kenta Asakura (PI of the SIM Lab), whose research focuses on clinical social work
practice and education, and other faculty members of the School of Social Work to further the
team’s original research into simulation and professional practice.
The fellow is expected to conduct their own original research on professional practice and
education, engage in existing research projects in the lab, and produce quality peer-reviewed
publications. The fellow is also expected to teach one single-term (0.5) course per year in the
School of Social Work. The fellow will develop specialized knowledge-base and skills required for
simulation-based research, linkages between the lab and community partners, leveraging
existing capacities to identify new research opportunities. There will also be opportunities for
the fellow to provide mentorship to graduate students engaged in SIM lab research.
Requirements
The successful candidate will have:
1. A PhD (or equivalent) completed, prior to the start of the fellowship and in the past five
years in Social Work, Psychology, Education, or any other field relevant to the fellowship
2. A research and publication track-record relevant to the research focus on the fellowship,
as appropriate for an early stage of career.
3. The ability to teach effectively and work with graduate students
Award duration: 24 months
Start date: Negotiable, but preferably by September 15, 2020
Salary for 2020/2021: C$45,000 plus benefits (see Article 27 of PSAC local 77000 collective agreement with Carleton
University). Increases will follow the collective agreement.
Relocation expenses: Eligible moving expenses of up to C$1500
Research Funding: The Fellow will have access to a research fund of C$5,000 in each of the two 12-month periods in
which the Fellowship is held.
Teaching Requirements
The Fellow will teach one single-term (0.5 credit) course per academic year in the School of
Social Work, specifics to be negotiated.
Application Deadline: April 6, 2020
The application should include: 1) a cover letter, with a focus on the candidate’s interest in the
fellowship and a statement of their research intent in simulation-based research during this
fellowship, 2) CV; 3) evidence of teaching experience and excellence, and 4) names and contact
information for three referees. Please submit applications electronically to Sarah Todd,
professor and director, School of Social Work, sarah.todd@carleton.ca
About Carleton
With over 12 national museums and the spectacular Gatineau Park close by, there are many
excellent recreational opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy.
Carleton University is a dynamic and innovative research and teaching institution committed to
developing solutions to real world problems by pushing the boundaries of knowledge and
understanding. Its internationally recognized faculty, staff, researchers, and librarians provide
about 30,000 full- and part-time students from every province and more than 100 countries with
academic opportunities in 65+ programs of study. Carleton’s creative, interdisciplinary, and
international approach to research has led to many significant discoveries and creative work in
public policy, governance, science and technology, business, and the arts.
Commitment to Diversity
Carleton University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source
of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would
contribute to the further diversification of our University including, but not limited to, women,
visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual
orientation or gender identity. Those applicants that are selected for an interview will be
requested to contact the Chair of the Search Committee as soon as possible to discuss any
accommodation requirements. Arrangements will be made to accommodate requests in a timely
manner.