Research Supervision

This page is intended for prospective PhD and Master’s researchers who are interested in the School of Community and Regional Planning (SCARP) research pathways at UBC. As a supervisor and committee member, I prioritize relationality, accountability, and co-learning; my classrooms and research processes integrate Indigenous knowledge, language, story, and embodiment, and I commit to decolonization and self-determination in practice.

Please carefully review the information available at SCARP for more information and details on completing your Expression of Interest for the next academic admissions cycle.

PhD pathway

MAP/MScP pathway

Areas I Supervise

I welcome inquiries from prospective PhD and Master’s students whose work aligns with:

  • Indigenous community planning and governance

  • Indigenous Language reclamation and revitalization (especially Kwak’wala/Wakashan)

  • Indigenous community health, wellness, and community care

  • Trauma-informed, land-based, and ceremony-informed planning and methods

What I Look For

Preference is given to Indigenous applicants 

Clear alignment with the areas above and a strong rationale for why a PhD/Master’s in Planning or Indigenous Community Planning (not only “research” in general).

Evidence of research readiness: prior thesis work and/or peer-reviewed publications or substantial professional/lived experience in Indigenous community contexts.

Community relationships: demonstrated, ethical ties with communities (especially for community-engaged projects).

Maturity & purpose: I consider an applicant’s lived experience and values, particularly those who have a clear vision or purpose for their research to serve a greater good.

Discipline fit: I generally do not supervise research outside of the scope of Indigenous Community Planning.

Authenticity: I will not consider generic applications. Please refrain from using chatbots to draft your email or statement. I want to hear your voice.

How to Reach Out 

Please email me directly to jessica.barudin@ubc.ca rather than solely relying on the Expression of Interest form. Use the subject line:  “PhD Inquiry – [Your Name] – [Proposed Topic]”

Include one PDF (max 6 pages) with:

  1. Research brief (2 pages): working title; 2–3 guiding questions; why Planning; theoretical anchors; proposed methods; communities/relationships; anticipated contributions.

  2. Experience snapshot (1 page): research training and outputs or relevant professional/lived experience.

  3. Community & ethics (1 page): your approach to reciprocity, consent, data governance, and care in community-engaged research.

  4. CV (up to 2 pages).
     Optional: 1 short writing sample or creative brief (max 10 pages).

What Happens Next (Selection Process)

  • Screening: I respond to competitive, well-aligned inquiries. If there isn’t a fit, I may send a brief note so you can redirect your efforts.

  • Conversation: Promising students are invited to a 30-minute Zoom to discuss their interests, fit with Indigenous Community Planning, and how a PhD supports their long-term goals.

  • Iterations: If we both see potential, expect several rounds of feedback on a ~1,000-word Statement of Purpose before you apply. This helps us gauge mutual working styles, responsiveness to critique, and clarity of thinking.

  • Advisory ecology: I encourage applicants to identify at least two possible advisors at SCARP to ensure continuity if circumstances change, and potentially a co-supervisor.

Supervision Style & Commitments

  • Relational and reciprocal: We co-create a learning plan, check-in rhythm, and care practices that support sustainable scholarship and community accountability.

  • Multiple ways of knowing: Your project may integrate land-based, embodied, linguistic, and arts-based methods alongside other planning and community-building approaches.

  • Beyond the degree: I mentor with a long view—toward community impact, professional pathways, and your wellness.

Funding Overview 

Strong applicants typically compete for a mix of:

  • UBC Four-Year Fellowship (4YF)

  • Tri-Council doctoral awards

  • Graduate Research/Academic Assistantships (GRA/GAA)

  • Teaching Assistantships (TA) (often after Year 1)

    Packages vary by year and availability; we’ll discuss a realistic plan (including external awards) during our call. Please refer to the current SCARP/UBC pages for the latest amounts and deadlines.