CDA Institute – Ottawa, ON
The CDA Institute is seeking a Research Assistant Intern for paid term position. We are looking for a dynamic, motivated individual with a strong interest in Canadian defence, security, geopolitics, and foreign policy to join our team and contribute to the critical work of advancing Canada’s security interests.
The CDA Institute is a non-partisan, registered charity dedicated to advancing informed debate on national security issues, particularly those pertaining to national defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. We foster evidence-based, constructive dialogue to help policymakers, experts, and the public navigate today’s complex security environment.
Location: hybrid, mix of remote work and in-office days at our downtown Ottawa office.
Term: Full time ending December 23, 2025
To apply, please send your CV and cover letter (subject line: Application – Research Assistant Internship) to Josh Malm, Director of Research and Analysis, at hr@cdainstitute.ca. Applications submitted via “Easy Apply” will not be considered.
Application Deadline: Wednesday, September 8, 2025, at 23:59 EST
Position Overview
As a Research Assistant Intern, you will be directly involved in our mission through a wide range of research, writing, event coordination, and communications tasks. This role offers unique opportunities to gain experience working with defence experts, policymakers, and influencers in Canadian defence and security.
Key Responsibilities
Research
• Conduct research on defence and security issues, including geopolitical trends, military strategies, policy developments, and emerging threats.
• Monitor current events, policy shifts, and relevant news in defence, security, and geopolitics.
Literature Reviews and Summaries
• Review academic articles, policy papers, government reports, and related literature on topics such as NATO policy, defence procurement, regional security, and technological advancements.
• Summarize findings and key themes, providing insights into ongoing defence and security debates.
• Prepare briefings and memos on current defence and security issues.
Drafting and Editing Reports
• Assist in drafting research reports, policy briefs, and articles.
• Help develop both technical and accessible versions of research outputs for various audiences.
Event Support
• Support coordination for conferences, workshops, and webinars by managing logistics, preparing materials, and taking notes.
• Summarize key points from events for internal records and public reports.
Communications and Outreach
• Provide outreach and communications support for the annual Ottawa Conference in March, including developing social media content and assisting with promotional materials.
• Write summaries for the CDA Institute’s website, newsletters, or social media, engaging public and professional audiences alike.
• Liaise with leaders and experts in the Canadian defence community to develop thought leadership content.
Required Qualifications
• Education: Preference for candidates with MA or PhD studies in a relevant field (e.g., political science, international relations, defence studies, public policy), though a combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Skills:
- Strong writing and editing abilities in English or French, with the capacity to produce clear, professional content.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and an ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated interest in Canadian defence, security, and foreign policy.
Additional Qualifications
• Bilingualism (French/English)
• Prior experience in the Canadian defence, security, or foreign policy sector, or a background within the Canadian Armed Forces.
Why Join Us?
At the CDA Institute, you will have the opportunity to shape high-level debates on Canadian and global security, influence decision-makers, and lead a talented team committed to excellence. If you are a strategic thinker, collaborative leader, and passionate about Canada’s defence and security, we want to hear from you.
We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
