MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions is recruiting a Community Scholar to join MAP for a term of one year, on a full-time or part-time basis. MAP Community Scholars work as MAP researchers, developing independent programs of research focused on community-based solutions to address health inequities in cities. Community Scholars also collaborate with MAP scientists, staff and students, and others at Unity Health Toronto to help align ongoing MAP research initiatives with community priorities. 

About the program

The Community Scholar Program was launched in 2021 to:

• Strengthen links between MAP and community agencies through partnered research
• Generate health equity solutions that directly address community priorities and needs
• Provide a platform for community experts to develop independent programs of research focused on community-based solutions
• Strengthen capacity at MAP to build and maintain effective community-based partnerships

The ideal candidate for the Community Scholar program:

• Works in a community-based organization, where both the individual and the organization wish to enhance their research and evaluation capacity.
• Can commit to participate in the program for one year – either part-time or full-time.
• Intends to return to work with their community-based organization at the end of the one-year period.

The Community Scholar program is not intended to provide support for graduate students or post-doctoral fellows.

 How the program works

The Community Scholar will be mentored by a MAP scientist or a team of MAP researchers, to be identified at the time the applicant is selected. The mentor(s) will meet regularly with the Community Scholar and support the Scholar’s activities and deliverables. Deliverables will be developed and agreed upon between the Scholar and their mentor(s) to ensure they are feasible, aligned with the Scholar’s goals, and of value to the sponsoring community partner. Examples of deliverables may include:

• Preparation and submission of one or more scientific papers for publication, as the primary author or co-author
• Preparation and submission of a grant proposal to an external funding agency

The Community Scholar will participate in MAP activities, including, but not limited to:

• Writing and submitting research funding proposals
• Presenting at research rounds and seminars (MAP-wide and/or hospital-wide)
• Collaborations with MAP scientists and staff
• Scientist meetings
• Manuscript preparation
• Supervision and mentoring of trainees (as appropriate)
• Liaising with clinical and administrative staff at Unity Health Toronto

The Community Scholar will have access to MAP resources, including desk space, computer, library access, and other resources. The Community Scholar will acknowledge MAP and Unity Health Toronto in all research-related activities that originate from their Community Scholarship.

MAP will cover a portion of the successful candidate’s salary costs. Details of the funding arrangement will be negotiated by the MAP Director and the community-based organization.

Applications for Community Scholars are currently closed.