Description
Toronto Metropolitan University offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers seeking to advance their academic careers in Canada. Applications are open for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position specializing in Qualitative Research and Knowledge Mobilization on Migration and Labour Market Integration.
This full-time on-campus fellowship is hosted by the BMO Newcomer Workforce Integration Lab within the Global Migration Institute. The role provides recent PhD graduates with a platform to contribute directly to policy-relevant research while collaborating with experienced scholars. The appointment spans two years and is designed to enhance career development through research publications, stakeholder engagement, public policy initiatives, and collaborative projects.
About Toronto Metropolitan University
Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is a premier public institution recognized for its innovative research, community engagement, and interdisciplinary focus. Located in downtown Toronto, TMU provides a supportive environment where scholarly work addresses contemporary social, economic, and policy challenges.
The hosting facility, the BMO Newcomer Workforce Integration Lab at the Global Migration Institute, conducts critical research on immigration, workforce integration, labour markets, and newcomer experiences. The institute bridges the gap between academia and real-world application by collaborating with government agencies, employers, community groups, and policymakers to improve employment outcomes for immigrants in Canada.
Fellowship Overview
- Host Country: Canada
- Host Institution: Toronto Metropolitan University
- Research Centre: BMO Newcomer Workforce Integration Lab
- Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Duration: 2 Years
- Location: Toronto, Canada (Fully In Person)
- Annual Salary: CAD $65,000
- Benefits: Included
- Start Date: Late September 2026
- Application Deadline: 10 July 2026
- Application Fee: None
Fellowship Benefits
This fellowship balances competitive financial support with robust career and professional development opportunities:
- Competitive Annual Salary: Fellows receive an annual salary of CAD $65,000 to focus entirely on their research agenda.
- Comprehensive Benefits: A full benefits package is provided to support the fellow’s health and well-being during the two-year term.
- Expert Mentorship: Participants work alongside senior faculty members who provide individual guidance on research design, publication strategies, grant development, and career planning.
- Scholarly Publications: The role actively encourages researchers to publish findings in high-impact academic journals and present at national and international conferences.
- Professional Networking: Fellows collaborate with a vast network of academics, employers, policymakers, government representatives, and community organizations.
- Knowledge Mobilization: Candidates gain valuable experience translating academic findings into practical policy recommendations and accessible community resources.
- Professional Development: The position supports practical skill acquisition in grant writing, stakeholder engagement, event coordination, and interdisciplinary teamwork.
Why Choose This Fellowship?
Unlike standard postdoctoral roles focused solely on theory, this position blends scholarly inquiry with real-world policy application. Researchers contribute directly to ongoing discussions surrounding Canadian immigration, labour market dynamics, and newcomer integration. The deep integration with employers and community organizations ensures fellows build a versatile portfolio suitable for both academic and non-academic career paths.
Research Focus
The fellowship centers on Qualitative Research and Knowledge Mobilization on Migration and Labour Market Integration. Key research avenues include:
- Immigration policy analysis and public policy development
- Labour market integration and workforce participation
- Newcomer settlement dynamics and community engagement
- International student transitions and stakeholder collaboration
- Qualitative research methodologies and knowledge mobilization strategies
- The chosen fellow will focus on projects aimed at improving employment inclusion and systemic outcomes for newcomers arriving in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
Prospective applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the position:
- Educational Qualification: Must hold a PhD in Sociology, Geography, Migration Studies, Public Policy, Political Science, or a related social science discipline. Prior research experience in migration and labour markets is highly preferred.
- Qualitative Research Skills: Demonstrated experience designing and executing qualitative research projects, including focus groups, qualitative interviews, case studies, and community-based research.
- Data Analysis Software: Proficiency in using qualitative data analysis tools, specifically NVivo.
- Subject Matter Knowledge: Clear understanding of Canadian labour markets, immigrant settlement, international student issues, and labour migration policies.
- Academic Writing: A proven track record of strong academic writing, including preparing journal articles, policy briefs, or research reports.
- Teamwork & Communication: Ability to work productively within interdisciplinary teams and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with strong organizational capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
While not strictly mandatory, the following experiences will strengthen an application:
- Research grant writing and policy development experience
- Stakeholder engagement and community-engaged research projects
- International research collaborations and knowledge mobilization strategies
- Multilingual communication skills, including fluency in languages other than English
Fields of Study
Eligible academic backgrounds and research focus areas include:
- Sociology
- Geography
- Migration Studies
- Public Policy
- Political Science
- Social Sciences and related interdisciplinary fields
Responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Fellow
The successful candidate will be expected to execute the following duties:
- Conducting Qualitative Research: Designing and implementing field projects, focus groups, and participant interviews.
- Data Analysis: Managing, structuring, and analyzing qualitative datasets using NVivo software.
- Academic Publications: Writing peer-reviewed journal articles, comprehensive research reports, conference papers, and actionable policy briefs.
- Knowledge Mobilization: Formulating and delivering strategies to present research data clearly to community groups, employers, and policymakers.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Maintaining close collaborative partnerships with government representatives, research partners, and immigrant-serving organizations.
- Event Coordination: Supporting the planning and execution of public seminars, workshops, and academic conferences organized by the lab.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a complete application package digitally by following these steps:
- Step 1: Review all fellowship requirements and eligibility criteria to ensure a strong fit.
- Step 2: Gather all required application documents, proof of qualifications, and supporting research materials.
- Step 3: Access and complete the official online application form provided on the Toronto Metropolitan University portal.
- Step 4: Upload all requested documents in the specified formats.
- Step 5: Submit the finalized application package before the closing date.
Application Deadline
Deadline for Submission: 10 July 2026
Fellowship Commences: Late September 2026
Applicants are highly encouraged to submit their materials early to avoid potential last-minute technical difficulties with the portal.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight Relevant Research: Focus your application materials on your previous work in qualitative methodologies, public policy, or migration studies.
- Showcase Publications: Highlight peer-reviewed papers, policy reports, and conference presentations that demonstrate consistent research productivity.
- Emphasize Community Engagement: Detail any previous experience working alongside policymakers, non-profits, or community groups.
- Demonstrate Technical Skills: Make sure to explicitly mention your proficiency with data management tools and qualitative software like NVivo.
- Tailor Your Application: Clearly state how your individual research goals align with the ongoing projects at the BMO Newcomer Workforce Integration Lab.
