This project involves training an artificial intelligence large language model (LLM) to review published research in the field of sport and exercise science/medicine for its adherence to the CONSORT reporting guidelines. We need assistance with the creation and validation of a synthesized text corpus. We have to check that the text the LLM produces for each paper is representative of the text found in clinical trial reports and that the labels the model provides (i.e. the reporting guidelines the model states the text does and does not adhere to) are accurate. We expect this process to be iterative and to require “prompt engineering’, which is the systematic evaluation of model output based on changes to the instructions given to the model. Experience with reading and interpreting research literature is very helpful.
How to apply
Send an email with your résumé and a brief description of any experience or interest you have in artificial intelligence to Dr. James Wrightson at: jwrigh15@mail.ubc.ca
Dr. David Wright, in partnership with Dr. Margaret Hahn from the University of Toronto, has secured a significant grant from the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR) for their project titled “Targeting the Exercise-Inducible Signalling Factor FGF21 as a Novel Approach to Alleviate the Side Effects of Antipsychotics.” This initiative addresses a pressing need within mental health treatment.
Dr. Wright’s research revolves around lifestyle interventions, such as exercise and ketogenic diets, to uncover molecular mechanisms that could be harnessed for therapeutic purposes in mitigating the adverse metabolic effects induced by antipsychotic medications in individuals with schizophrenia. Over the course of the next five years, the project will conduct a series of experiments to delve into the underlying mechanisms behind the positive effects of these interventions, with the ultimate aim of enhancing patient health outcomes.
The CIHR Project Grant Program is committed to advancing health-related knowledge and outcomes by providing support to research projects across diverse stages and disciplines. It promotes innovative approaches and encourages the translation of discoveries into practical applications, including potential commercialization.
According to the 2024 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) University Rankings, the UBC School of Kinesiology, together with the UBC Okanagan School of Health and Exercise Sciences, holds the top position in North America and is ranked third globally for sports-related subjects.
The QS University Rankings, renowned for their rigorous assessment methodology, have evaluated 1,500 institutions spanning 104 locations worldwide. This milestone marks the 20th annual instalment of these rankings, which assess universities based on four key performance indicators: academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations per paper, and H-index. Of these indicators, academic reputation carries the most weight, reflecting the quality, communication, and global impact of a university’s research endeavours.
In this year’s rankings, the School of Kinesiology within the Faculty of Education has achieved an exceptional score of 90.8 out of 100 for sports-related subjects. This accomplishment underscores our unwavering dedication to academic and research excellence. Moreover, it reaffirms our commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments for all individuals.
For further insights into the QS World University Rankings, explore their 2024 rankings by subject webpage. Additionally, to gain a deeper understanding of the methodology behind these rankings, please visit their methodology webpage.
The School of Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia invites applications for a part-time sessional lecturer for the following positions in the 2024/2025 Academic terms.
The successful candidate will deliver core lectures; organize and run lab sections; organize tests, mid-term exams, and grading; and hold office hours weekly, working with the Academic Director on course-related matters, attending subject area meetings, as well as follow up appointments, where applicable.
Applicants should include with their letter of application a CV and the names and email addresses of three references.
All positions are subject to enrolment, funding and will be governed by UBC Agreement on Conditions of Appointment for Sessional and Part-time Faculty Members.
Qualifications:
A Master’s degree in Kinesiology or related fields of study is desirable. The position is dependent on final enrollments, is subject to availability of funds and will be governed by the University of British Columbia’s, ‘Agreement on conditions of appointment for Sessional Lecturers’. The current salary is $9,069.21 per 3-credit course.
KIN 572 Research Methods for Sport and Health Sciences – 3 credit course.
This course examines current issues within sport and health science research. The goal of the course is to develop coaching, technical leadership, and Kinesiology students’ research literacy skills to assist them in establishing best coaching, leadership, and Kinesiologist practices. Students should develop a comprehensive understanding of (a) the strengths and limitations of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs; (b) interpretation of basic statistics; (c) how to critically evaluate scientific literature; and (d) how to synthesize and communicate research in written and verbal forms.
Online course with synchronous and asynchronous learning
This advertisement as well as further information about the School of Kinesiology is available on the School of Kinesiology website at https://kin.educ.ubc.ca/. Information on the employment environment in the School of Kinesiology is available at https://kin.educ.ubc.ca/careers/ and also that of the Faculty of Education https://educ.ubc.ca/education-careers/. All positions are subject to final budgetary approval.
Applicants should submit their application including a CV online to:
Dr. Robert Boushel
School of Kinesiology, UBC
210 – 6081 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z1
Review of applications will begin Apr 23, 2024. All applications received by April 22, 2024 will receive full consideration.
The University is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and equitable work environment for all members of its workforce. An inclusive work environment presumes an environment where differences are accepted, recognized and integrated into current structures, planning and decision-making modes. Within this hiring process, UBC will make efforts to create an inclusive and equitable process for all candidates (including but not limited to people with disabilities). Accommodations are available on request for all candidates taking part in the selection process.
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.
The School of Kinesiology held its annual 2023-24 Student Leadership Recognition and Awards Breakfast on April 5, 2024 at the Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre. Student Engagement Officer, Emily Speidel hosted the event, featuring an address by the School’s Director, Robert Boushel.
These awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of Kinesiology students throughout the academic year, honoring their commitment to exceeding expectations in their roles. Recognitions are divided into three categories:
Community Engagement Award: Recognizing students who have invested significant time and effot into roles that positively impact the health and well-being of the individuals and communities they serve,
Student Experience Award: Recognizing students who have dedicated themselves to enhancing the holistic undergraduate experience within Kinesiology.
Qwasen Graduating Student Leadership Award: Recognizing graduating student leaders who have shown outstanding dedication and leadership through their roles within the School of Kinesiology or the KUS during their time at UBC.
Congratulations to all recipients! View the full list of award recipients.
School of Kinesiology Associate Professor, Dr. Eli Puterman, is among ten UBC faculty members who have been named by the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) as new Fellows and new Members of the RSC College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists for 2023.
Dr. Puterman was announced by the RSC as a Member of the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists. The College is the first of its kind in Canada, providing a system of multidisciplinary recognition for the emerging generation of Canadian intellectual leadership.
“It is an honour to be nominated to the RSC College and to be included in a cohort of experts seeking to advance an improved vision of Canada that resonates across so many fields of scientific and artistic explorations,” says Dr. Puterman. “I look forward to meeting many other Canadian leaders seeking to support the health and wellbeing of people across the country.”
Dr. Puterman will be welcomed to the 2023 class of new Members of the RSC College at the RSC Celebration of Excellence and Engagement ceremony in November.
Since 2015, Dr. Puterman has served as the Canada Research Chair in Physical Activity and Health. His research program develops and implements physical activity and exercise programs in collaboration with and for hard-to-reach and high-stress individuals to determine how such programs can improve mental and physical wellbeing.
Kinesiology Professor, Dr. Guy Faulkner has been elected into the Canadian Academy of Health Science (CAHS) for 2023.
Election to the Fellowship in the Academy is considered one of the highest honours for individuals in the Canadian health sciences community. Dr. Faulkner is among 48 new Fellows who are recognized by this honour for their rich and varied expertise.
“I would like to personally congratulate all the applicants that were elected as a Fellow in the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences for 2023. This recognition reflects their dedication and excellence in their field,” said Dr. Jan Sargeant, Chair of the CAHS Fellowship Committee. “We look forward to having their expertise further enrich the work of our Academy.”
Coupled with a broader research interest in public health, Dr. Faulkner’s research has focused on two inter-related themes: the development and evaluation of physical activity interventions; and physical activity and mental health. He was founding editor of the journal ‘Mental Health and Physical Activity’, which fosters the inter-disciplinary development of this research field. He led the development of, and currently coordinates, the Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey, which is a health and wellbeing surveillance platform for the postsecondary sector.
