Research Data Management Specialist - University of Alberta, Edmonton

About this opportunity

The University of Alberta is seeking a Research Data Management (RDM) Implementation Specialist to provide senior-level leadership for the operationalization, execution, and continuous evaluation of its Institutional Research Data Management Strategy. Reporting to the Director, Research Ethics and Integrity, this pivotal role is co-led by the Research Integrity Support (RIS) portfolio and the University of Alberta Library. This key strategic initiative is designed to significantly advance institutional RDM capacity, enhance service pathways, and foster responsible data stewardship across the entire university campus in Edmonton, Alberta.

The Implementation Specialist will be instrumental in translating high-level institutional strategy into actionable operational plans, defining priorities, establishing metrics, and coordinating activities across various university units, including RIS, the Library, Information Services & Technology (IST), Colleges, Faculties, and the broader research community. This role requires significant independent judgment to evaluate institutional RDM readiness, identify existing gaps, and lead the development and execution of tailored implementation frameworks that meet the unique needs of a diverse research environment.

By ensuring University of Alberta practices align with evolving Tri-Agency mandates, funder and journal expectations, Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles (CARE/OCAP®), privacy requirements, and FAIR data standards, the RDM Implementation Specialist plays a critical role. This position directly supports the university's commitment to research excellence, integrity, and innovation, making a meaningful influence on the institution's vibrant research community.

Responsibilities

• Implementation of Institutional RDM Services, Supports & Capacity-Building (45%)
• Lead institutional RDM initiatives arising from the University of Alberta RDM Strategy, including awareness campaigns, tool development, service pathways, and policy/process enhancements, as part of the Institutional RDM Steering Committee.
• Develop detailed implementation plans defining scope, deliverables, timelines, stakeholder roles, communication needs, and effectiveness metrics for RDM projects.
• Conduct institutional assessments regarding RDM services, researcher needs, Data Management Plans (DMPs), data deposit, sensitive data, and Indigenous data governance.
• Design engagement processes with researchers, Associate Deans of Research (ADRs), graduate students, research administrators, Indigenous partners, and core central units (Library, IST, Ethics, Privacy, Records Management).
• Design and adapt RDM guidance, templates, decision aids, training resources, and service pathways for diverse research disciplines.
• Support and sustain an institutional RDM Community of Practice for continuous engagement, knowledge exchange, and discipline-specific implementation.
• Monitor local, national, and international RDM trends, including Tri-Agency policies, publisher requirements, FAIR principles, CARE principles, OCAP®, and Indigenous Data Sovereignty to inform local strategy.
• RDM Strategy Implementation Planning, Governance & Evaluation (35%)
• Provide strategic advice, risk analysis, and actionable recommendations to the AVP RIS, Director of RDM Strategies, and the Steering Committee regarding implementation priorities and barriers.
• Evaluate the University of Alberta Institutional RDM Strategy and implementation framework to determine required resources, tools, policies, and governance structures.
• Maintain mechanisms to track progress, evaluate metrics, identify under-resourced activities, and recommend corrective action for RDM initiatives.
• Lead the preparation of high-level briefing materials, decision documents, environmental scans, and progress reports for senior leadership and governance committees.
• Proactively identify and mitigate institutional risks related to funder compliance, research competitiveness, privacy, ethics, and long-term research integrity.
• Stakeholder Engagement, Consultation & Capacity Building (20%)
• Provide practical advice and guidance to researchers and administrators on RDM requirements, DMPs, data deposit, and responsible data stewardship.
• Design and deliver engaging RDM workshops, information sessions, and consultation events in collaboration with institutional partners.
• Participate in internal, regional, and national RDM forums, including the Digital Research Alliance of Canada Network of Experts.
• Coordinate institutional responses to Tri-Agency and funder consultations related to evolving RDM requirements.

Who we're looking for

The University of Alberta is seeking candidates with a strong educational background and relevant experience to excel in this specialized role.

• A graduate degree in a relevant discipline is required.
• An undergraduate degree with substantial directly related experience in research data management, research administration, library or information services, policy implementation, or institutional program delivery may be considered.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered.

The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills, and attributes:

• Data Principles & Sovereignty: Deep understanding of FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable); practical application experience is a strong asset. Understanding of Indigenous Data Sovereignty, including the First Nations Principles of OCAP® and CARE principles. Experience supporting Indigenous-engaged research is highly valued.
• Project Management: Proven ability to apply project management strategies to lead complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives from concept to execution.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Advanced analytical skills with demonstrated judgment in assessing system gaps, evaluating risks, and developing policy or workflow recommendations.
• Communication & Facilitation: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to translate complex compliance/technical topics for diverse academic audiences.
• Relationship Building: Highly developed interpersonal skills with a collaborative, diplomatic approach to building bridges across faculties, central units, and external networks.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with collaborative tools including Google Workspace (Drive, Docs, Sheets), MS Office, Zoom, and remote collaboration platforms.