Research Supervision

This page is intended for prospective PhD researchers. As a supervisor, 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 about the PhD pathway at SCARP for more information on the Expression of Interest - https://scarp.ubc.ca/phd

Areas I Supervise

I welcome inquiries from prospective PhD 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 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 take into consideration an applicant’s lived experience and values, particularly those who have a vision or purpose for their research to be of service..

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

Authenticity: I will not consider generic applications. Please do not use 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 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 current SCARP/UBC pages for the latest amounts and deadlines.