Location: In-person – CDA Institute Office, 701 – 350 Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON K1R 7S8
Duration: 4 months (May–September 2026)
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours
About Us
The Conference of Defence Associations Institute (CDA Institute) is a non-partisan, non-profit think tank dedicated to advancing informed, fact-based dialogue on Canada’s defence, security, and foreign policy, with a particular focus on the Canadian Armed Forces.
Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated co-op student to support research and digital media teams. This role is ideal for someone studying international relations, political science, Canadian defence studies or a related field who has strong academic performance, excellent writing skills, attention to detail, and bilingual abilities (English/French preferred). This role ideally requires the successful candidate to split their time between research support and digital media tasks (e.g., graphic design and communications).
Key Responsibilities
• Conduct research and provide analysis on Canadian defence and security topics;
• Assist in drafting and editing research documents, briefs, speeches, articles, newsletters, and other written communications;
• Support the promotion and execution of conferences, events, and research initiatives;
• Work with the digital media team to design graphics and visual materials (if applicable);
• Format and style publications (if applicable);
• Work on social media posts, communications, podcast descriptions, etc.
Qualifications
• Currently enrolled in a graduate program in international relations, political science, defence, or a related field;
• Excellent writing, research, and communication skills;
• Strong proficiency in graphic design – Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and Canva or equivalent design tools is a bonus;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment;
• Bilingual (English/French) preferred.
What You’ll Gain
• Meaningful, hands-on experience contributing to research on defence, security, and international affairs;
• Exposure to high-level policy discussions, conferences, and events, with access to a dynamic network of experts, practitioners, and decision-makers in the field;
• A flexible hybrid work environment, including the option to work remotely up to two days per week;
• The chance to strengthen your communication skills by working on real-world outputs, ranging from written analysis to event coordination and stakeholder engagement;
• Insight into the inner workings of a leading think tank;
• Development of strong analytical, research, and professional writing skills through substantive deliverables.
Application Instructions
Please submit your resume, cover letter, writing sample, and portfolio samples (if applicable) to hr@cdainstitute.ca by April 10, 2026. In your cover letter, highlight your academic background, research experience, and interest in defence/security policy. Candidates with communications or design experience should also highlight this.
