I completed my PhD in Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia (UBC). I have also completed postdoctoral fellowships at UBC, the University of Toronto and University Health Network.

My research has focused on developing, implementing, and evaluating digital programs for individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions.

My theory- and evidence-informed work is conducted in partnership with community and system partners. I have also worked as a Researcher at the Public Health Agency of Canada to develop knowledge mobilization products and conduct knowledge syntheses relevant to public health issues in Ontario.

Currently, I am a Research Officer with the College of Nurses of Ontario, where I conduct research and evaluation on nursing policies and programs in Ontario. I also work for the Canadian Disability Participation Project as an Evaluation Specialist, where I evaluate knowledge mobilization products.

Undergraduate Courses

HLTH 361- Indigenous Health

HLTH 493- Indigenous Food Sovereignty

 Research Summary

My research broadly explores Indigenous health, community strengths, and addresses determinants of Indigenous health inequities. I am dedicated to prioritizing and supporting Indigenous communities in meeting their own needs and desires in health. I focus on the following streams: Indigenous Food Sovereignty; Indigenous healthcare workforce; and community-based strengths in health and healthcare. My approach employs Indigenous and community-based participatory methodologies that privilege community priorities, utility, values, and ways of knowing. I am also dedicated to building capacity in Indigenous health research through mentoring and training students and community researchers. I am currently working with Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and Dr. Heather Castleden (UVic) on a research project that explores community-driven priorities for food security and community health in the face of a rapidly changing climate. I am also working with my own community (Kenhtè:ke) conducting research that explores breastfeeding as food sovereignty and developing research exploring  the relationships between food, culture/language, and health.

 Recent Publications

John, J., & Castleden, H. (2024). “Because you love us as much as we love you”: The role of community relationships in facilitating engagement in healthcare. Social Science and Medicine, 0(0), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117532.

John, J., & Castleden, H. (2024). “Dear John”: Overriding institutional axiology by privileging Indigenous relational ethics. Research Ethics, 0(0), https://doi-org.proxy.queensu.ca/10.1177/17470161241288649.

John, J., Castleden, H., Phillips, W., Mashford-Pringle, A., Dockstator, M., Hill, J. (2021). Who Decides What is Essential? The Importance of Ceremony During COVID-19. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/who-decides-whats-essential-the-importance-of-indigenous-ceremony-during-covid-19-159793