Working at StFX, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of St. Francis Xavier University

St. Francis Xavier University, commonly known as StFX, is a primarily undergraduate university located in the picturesque town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada. Founded in 1853 by the Sisters of Charity, StFX has a rich history of providing liberal arts education with a focus on student-centered learning and community involvement. Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Nova Scotia, the campus offers a close-knit environment ideal for those pursuing jobs at St. Francis Xavier University. With around 5,000 students, StFX emphasizes small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and hands-on research opportunities, making it an attractive destination for academics and professionals seeking meaningful careers in higher education.

The university's commitment to excellence is reflected in its consistent top rankings by Maclean's magazine for undergraduate universities in Canada, particularly in categories like student satisfaction and leadership. Jobs at StFX span faculty positions in arts, sciences, business, and health sciences, as well as administrative, research, and support roles. Whether you're interested in teaching, research, or operations, StFX provides a supportive setting to advance your career while contributing to its mission of fostering ethical leadership and global citizenship.

📜 History of St. Francis Xavier University

Established as a Catholic college in 1853, StFX evolved from St. Francis Xavier College to a full university in 1866. It played a pivotal role in Nova Scotia's educational landscape, introducing co-education in 1914 and becoming known for its Xaverian Week traditions. Today, jobs at St. Francis Xavier University allow professionals to be part of an institution that has produced notable alumni like Prime Minister Angus L. Macdonald and astronaut Roberta Bondar. The university's growth includes key milestones like the founding of the Coady International Institute in 1967, a global leader in community-based development, offering unique opportunities in adult education and international research roles.

🏛️ Academic Programs and Departments at StFX

StFX offers over 90 undergraduate programs across faculties of Arts, Science, Business, and Health Sciences. Popular departments include Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Nursing, and the Schulich School of Law affiliation. For those eyeing faculty jobs at St. Francis Xavier University, opportunities abound in interdisciplinary areas like environmental studies and Indigenous studies. The university's research institutes, such as the Allais Research Chair in Adult Education, support innovative projects funded by federal agencies.

💼 Types of Jobs at St. Francis Xavier University

Jobs at StFX include tenure-track professors, limited-term instructors, research associates, librarians, and administrative positions like student affairs coordinators. Faculty roles often involve teaching 4-6 courses per year, supervising theses, and pursuing research. Administrative jobs focus on supporting the university's residential college model. Learn more about university job types available across institutions like StFX.

• Tenure-track positions: Long-term academic careers with promotion tracks.
• Sessional lecturers: Short-term teaching roles ideal for adjunct experience.
• Research staff: Supporting grants in labs and centers.
• Admin and support: Roles in HR, IT, and facilities.

📖 Definitions

To understand jobs at St. Francis Xavier University, key terms include:

• Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after probation, involving teaching, research, and service.
• Sessional instructor: Part-time or contract teacher for specific courses, often without research duties.
• Research assistant (RA): Entry-level role supporting faculty projects, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree.
• Liberal arts education: Holistic undergraduate focus emphasizing critical thinking across disciplines, core to StFX's model.
• NSERC grant: Funding from Canada's Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council for science research.

📋 Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at StFX

For faculty jobs at St. Francis Xavier University, a PhD in the relevant field is standard for tenure-track roles. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers or administrative positions. Research roles may require specialized training, like in climate modeling for environmental science posts. Teaching experience, such as leading tutorials or labs, is essential, aligning with StFX's undergraduate emphasis.

🔬 Research Focus and Expertise Needed

StFX prioritizes research that engages students, with strengths in climate change adaptation, public health, and community development. Expertise in sustainability, Mi'kmaq studies, or data analytics is highly valued. Recent projects include Antarctic research expeditions and Coady Institute's global partnerships. For research jobs, expect collaboration with NSERC-funded teams.

⭐ Preferred Experience for StFX Positions

Candidates with peer-reviewed publications (5+ for assistant professors), grant success (e.g., SSHRC or CIHR), and teaching portfolios stand out. Prior experience at small universities or in experiential learning is preferred. Community engagement, like volunteering in Antigonish, aligns with StFX's ethos.

🛠️ Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include strong communication, adaptability, and digital literacy for hybrid teaching. Competencies like mentorship, grant writing, and cultural sensitivity are key. For admin roles, project management and equity training are valued. StFX seeks innovative educators passionate about undergraduate success.

• Teaching: Engaging lectures and student advising.
• Research: Data analysis and publication.
• Service: Committee work and outreach.

📄 Application Process and Tips

Apply via StFX's online portal at stfx.ca/careers. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter highlighting fit with StFX's mission, teaching dossier, and three references. Tips: Reference specific programs, demonstrate student-focused research, and visit campus if possible. Prepare for interviews with teaching demos. Network via academic CV tips. Deadlines vary; monitor regularly.

1. Review job description thoroughly.
2. Customize documents with keywords like 'undergraduate research'.
3. Highlight EDI commitment.
4. Follow up politely.

🌈 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives at StFX

StFX's EDI Action Plan includes the Indigenous Advisor role, Black Student Advising Centre, and Pride Centre. The university achieved bronze in the Equity in Hiring Award and supports women in STEM via scholarships. Accessibility services and anti-bias training are standard, fostering inclusive jobs at St. Francis Xavier University.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

In Antigonish, a safe town of 5,000, StFX employees enjoy 35-hour weeks, 7+ weeks vacation, and parental leave exceeding provincial standards. Campus perks include gym access, childcare subsidies, and events like Highland Games. The supportive community, beautiful trails, and proximity to ocean reduce stress, enhancing balance. Housing is affordable, with faculty housing options.

📝 Summary: Pursue Your Career at StFX

Jobs at St. Francis Xavier University offer rewarding paths in a vibrant Nova Scotia community. Explore higher ed jobs, get advice from higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. StFX's legacy of excellence awaits dedicated professionals.