Canada 2026 Postdoctoral Fellowship for Refugee Youth Research
Scholars interested in refugee education, migration, and social inclusion have a unique chance to contribute to a significant community-based research project in Canada. This one-year postdoctoral fellowship focuses on the educational experiences of refugee youth affected by displacement and conflict. The position blends academic research with policy engagement and community collaboration, offering a meaningful opportunity in the field of migration and refugee studies.
This fellowship is part of the UnborderED Knowledge initiative, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). The project aims to improve educational access for displaced populations. The selected fellow will work with the Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia (ISSofBC) and collaborate with researchers from York University. The research will explore how refugee youth navigate post-secondary education, settlement services, employment, and community belonging after being displaced. The goal is to develop practical recommendations for programs, policies, and educational opportunities for newcomers and refugee communities across Canada.
Key Responsibilities of the Fellow
The Postdoctoral Fellow will undertake a range of important duties. These include conducting both qualitative and quantitative research activities to gather and analyze data on refugee youth experiences. A significant part of the role involves engaging directly with refugee and newcomer communities through interviews, focus groups, and community consultations. The fellow will also contribute to writing reports, publications, and policy briefs.
Participation in workshops, conferences, and public engagement events is expected. The position requires collaboration with community organizations and academic partners to support knowledge mobilization and policy development. The fellowship emphasizes community-engaged and equity-centered research methods. This ensures that the research outcomes are relevant and beneficial to the communities involved.
Ideal Candidate Profile
This fellowship is particularly suited for scholars with lived experience of forced migration. It is also ideal for researchers in migration studies and refugee education, as well as social science and public policy researchers. Community development specialists, education and settlement researchers, and academics focused on social inclusion and newcomer integration will find this opportunity a strong fit. Applicants who have experience working with refugee or displaced communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Required Qualifications
To be considered for this fellowship, applicants must have a graduate degree relevant to the fellowship’s focus areas. Strong academic and research experience is essential. Excellent communication and collaboration skills are also required, along with demonstrated experience in community-based or participatory research. A solid understanding of migration, refugee protection, settlement, or education issues is necessary. While not mandatory, experience with research publications and knowledge mobilization skills will be considered an advantage.
Significance of the Opportunity
This fellowship stands apart from many traditional academic positions by offering a direct path to social impact and policy change. The selected fellow will gain valuable experience working within a leading immigrant-serving organization in Canada. They will also develop expertise in applied research, stakeholder engagement, and community collaboration. Furthermore, the fellowship provides opportunities for professional development, networking, academic publishing, and contributing to national discussions on refugee education and inclusion.
Application Details
The deadline to submit applications for this one-year postdoctoral fellow position is June 12, 2026. Interested candidates should submit a current Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a brief cover letter. The cover letter should clearly explain their interest in the fellowship and their suitability for the role.
How to Apply
Further information about the position and the official opportunity page can be found by visiting the provided link. Applications should be sent via email to [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the Canada 2026 Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The fellowship focuses on researching the educational experiences of refugee youth affected by displacement and conflict in Canada.
Who is funding this postdoctoral fellowship?
The fellowship is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) as part of the UnborderED Knowledge initiative.
What are the key responsibilities of the fellow?
Key responsibilities include conducting qualitative and quantitative research, engaging with refugee communities, writing reports and policy briefs, and participating in workshops and conferences.
What qualifications are required for this fellowship?
Applicants need a relevant graduate degree, strong research experience, excellent communication and collaboration skills, and experience in community-based research. Experience working with refugee communities is strongly encouraged.
