Undergraduate Research Assistant

Position Title: Research Assistant
Department: Faculty of Arts Department of Modern Languages Dr. Mendel Peladeau-Houle
Position Type: Term
Classification: Casual 400 hours
Hourly Rate:$22/hour
Posting Date: June 18 2026
Closing Date:July 6 2026

Project

Funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and working with Dr. Mendel Peladeau-Houle this project investigates new representations of animals in contemporary French-language literature. Through the analysis of a large corpus of literary texts published since 2000 it seeks to identify and map recurring forms of animal spectrality (in relation to their disappearance amid the ongoing sixth mass extinction) while also exploring their ethical importance.

Key responsibilities

The undergraduate research assistant will contribute primarily to the corpus-mapping phase of the project and will work closely with the researcher and a doctoral research assistant. Responsibilities will include:

• reading and analyzing selected works from the primary corpus;
• organizing data in a shared research database;
• annotating significant passages and excerpts;
• assisting with bibliographic research and the organization of research materials and files;
• collaborating with the doctoral research assistant and researcher on data collection corpus development and research organization.

This initial phase of the project will extend over approximately one year. Hours of work are flexible and will be determined jointly with the student provided that the 400 contracted hours are completed by the end of the appointment period. The student may also have the opportunity to present part of their work or a related topic at an undergraduate student conference.

Qualifications

Applicants must be undergraduate students at St. Francis Xavier University.

Required qualifications:

• strong reading proficiency in French with the ability to read and analyze a substantial volume of French-language literary texts;
• excellent attention to detail and an interest in abstract and conceptual thinking;
• ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.

Preferred qualifications:

• academic background in French literature literary theory or animal studies;
• experience using databases Zotero or similar research tools.

To apply for this opportunity please send a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position and a current CV to Applications will be reviewed starting July 6 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

StFX is located in Mikmaki the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mikmaq People

Our institution is committed to upholding the values of equity diversity inclusion and accessibility. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized including Indigenous persons (especially Mikmaq) racialized persons (especially African Nova Scotians) persons with disabilities those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQIA and any others who would contribute to the diversity of our community. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

We are also committed to the elimination of barriers to participation for persons with disabilities. Should you require an accommodation during the recruitment process please contact People and Culture ator .

Required Experience:

Junior IC