This internship is hosted by the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS), funded through the PICS Climate Action Internship program.
The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) catalyzes and mobilizes research, partnerships, and knowledge that generate climate action in British Columbia and around the world. PICS is a multi-university institute encompassing the four major research-intensive universities in British Columbia: University of Victoria, University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the University of Northern British Columbia.
In the face of accelerating climate challenge, PICS is increasing our investment in collaboration, research, and knowledge mobilization, guided by our Strategic Plan: 2024 and Beyond. Our work focuses on solutions to the most pressing climate issues facing people, communities, and the land. PICS is here to support B.C.’s collective capacity to act. PICS is a values-based organization committed to equity and to reconciliation, justice, diversity, and inclusion.
Internship position background
The Community Initiatives Research Assistant will work within the PICS Community Codesign program stream which is currently focused on advancing work in support of the BC First Nations Climate Strategy and Action Plan (‘the Plan’) at PICS institutions. The initial phase of this work focuses on building capacity, strengthening relationships, and identifying existing efforts that align with the Plan priorities and objectives. By creating space for connection, relationship, and partnership, and by listening first and identifying gaps, we can support more effective, community-driven research in support of the priorities outlined within the Plan.
The Community Initiatives Research Assistant will identify and develop case studies that highlight best practices for climate-related research in partnership with Indigenous communities. Case studies will emphasize cultural safety, knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the principles of co-development. The Research Assistant will gather and summarize case studies, best practices, and other relevant information, in a Baseline Report, as well as in accessible formats for a range of audiences. The Research Assistant will also attend, and provide support for, both in-person and virtual Codesign program events.
Key responsibilities
- Conduct (academic/grey) literature reviews, interviews, and surveys, to identify case studies of successful Indigenous and climate change collaborations happening within PICS universities.
- Conduct scan of successful partnerships and best practices external to PICS universities.
- Analyze and document successful strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation involving Indigenous knowledge (connected to research undertaken or underway in B.C.).
- Develop accessible content – baseline report, presentations, digital content – to share findings with wider audiences.
- Contribute to the development of recommendations for future climate partnerships with Indigenous communities.
- Attend and help to support (including note-taking) in-person and online Codesign program events.
Education and experience
- Enrolled at a Pacific Institute of Climate Solutions partner institution: UVIC, UBC (including UBC Okanagan), SFU, UNBC.
- Preference for a Master’s or PhD student working towards a degree with focus on environmental studies, Indigenous studies or law, community planning, geography, climate change, emergency management, environmental science or a similar discipline.
- Experience (and/or related training) working collaboratively and respectfully with Indigenous communities and organizations.
- Experience in qualitative research methods (including surveys, interviews, case studies).
Qualifications and skills
- Strong quantitative research and plain language writing skills.
- Excellent skills in communication, active listening/observation, and social and cultural sensitivity.
- Ability to analyze and synthesize complex information into accessible formats for diverse audiences.
- Strong organization skills, detail orientation, and ability to multi-task.
- Self-motivation and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Proficiency in Word, Teams, Zoom.
Position details
- Compensation: The hourly rate will be $25-$35/hour based on the study level and experience of the successful candidate.
- Duration: 4-7 months. Flexible hours are anticipated to range between (25 and 35 hrs./week) from May 5 to August 22 with potential to continue part-time into the Fall (Sept-Nov).
- Location: Flexible within British Columbia.
- Travel: A few overnight trips (to workshops or meetings) within B.C. will be required.
- Workplace: Home office with your own laptop.
Apply using the form below
Submit your application by Friday March 21, 5:00PM PT. Decisions to be communicated by Friday April 11, 2025.
Climate justice is core to our work at PICS. We believe that intersectional approaches that recognize human, Indigenous, and environmental rights and responsibilities are foundational for climate solutions to be durable, effective, and fair. Climate justice requires addressing systemic inequalities, reconciliation, and challenging structures of power and privilege. We are dedicated to working in solidarity with affected communities to advocate for transformative change that promotes equity, resilience, and sustainability for all.
We acknowledge the disproportionate impacts of climate change on marginalized communities, including Indigenous Peoples, racial minorities, low-income individuals, individuals with disabilities, and those living in frontline communities.
PICS prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from members of all races, backgrounds, abilities, gender identities, and sexual orientations.