The Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research and Applied Studies (IKERAS) has an opening for a Sessional Instructor during the Fall Session of 2024. This position is subject to final budgetary approval. 

UPEI is recognized as a leading, innovative centre of excellence in learning, teaching, scholarship, and research. While it is strongly connected to the vibrant social and cultural environment of Prince Edward Island, it enjoys a reputation that extends far beyond the Island’s shores. The IKERAS faculty has strong ties to the local Indigenous communities on and off reserve.  Visit some of the vibrant local Indigenous organizations highlighted on our faculty website: https://www.upei.ca/faculty-of-indigenous-knowledge-education-research-and-applied-studies/indigenous-organizations 

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is located on Epekwitk, part of the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaw nation. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship, which recognize Mi'kmaw title and establish the ongoing relationship between the Mi'kmaw nation and the Crown. We are all treaty people.

Please note: the course offered below will be taught in person, unless otherwise specified as an online course.

IKE 2220 – Beadwork: The Symbols of Indigenous Cultural Resilience and Value

This course will explore how beadwork symbolized Indigenous perseverance in the aftermath of colonization and the residential school system. The course will examine the importance of beadwork both before and after European contact. The course will investigate how beading plays a vital role in restoring cultural ties and spiritual belief and how it continues to be significant in demonstrating Indigenous resiliency as well as highlighting the diverse cultural value of Indigenous peoples. The student will learn beading techniques along with the histories of Mi'kmaq beading and storytelling across Turtle Island. 
Course is offered: Mondays 6:00 pm – 8:50 pm

Qualifications: 

Successful applicants will have a minimum master’s degree with an avid interest in actively supporting students’ intellectual development and learning competencies in inquiry. In addition, applicants must have lived experiences and connections with Mi’kmaq culture and traditions. Historical knowledge of the evolution of beading on Turtle Island is required. Applicants must be prepared to infuse cross-Indigenous beadwork identifiers, patters and histories. This includes cross-continental Indigenous beading. 

Candidates are required to state their Indigenous status in the application and proof of such is part of the hiring process. 

The UPEI Faculty of IKERAS emphasized experiential learning in teaching Indigenous pedagogies and scholarship; candidates who can contribute to that focus are encouraged to apply. In addition, our Faculty values candidates with strong academic qualifications, traditional knowledge, leadership in reconciliation, and direct Indigenous lived experience. 

Preference will be given to the qualified candidates with seniority on the UPEI Sessional Roster and full-time and term contract Faculty Members of the Academic unit.

Application Instructions: 

Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research outline, and teaching dossier (e.g., teaching philosophy, teaching evaluations, previous syllabi). Candidates should also arrange for three letters of reference to be sent directly to the address below. Electronic submissions are encouraged. An application package including and addressing all of the elements listed above must be submitted electronically as a single PDF file to:  

Erin Reid, Interim Dean 
Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research and Applied Studies (IKERAS) 
University of Prince Edward Island 
550 University Avenue 
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island 
Canada C1A 4P3 
E-mail: erreid@upei.ca 

UPEI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation and believes in providing a positive learning and working environment where every person feels empowered to contribute. UPEI is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

Closing date for applications is May 31, 2024.