Research Associate
The Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP), one of Canada’s most trusted and influential think tanks, is seeking a research associate for a one-year contract, with the possibility of renewal.
The IRPP is an independent organization that supports evidence-based policy-making and constructive dialogue. It fulfills its mission through a variety of activities, including high-quality, in-depth research publications, events, its digital magazine Policy Options and through the work of its Centre of Excellence on the Canadian Federation.
The IRPP research team produces rigorous, in-depth research on Canada’s toughest and most pressing policy challenges. We are seeking to hire a research associate to join the team. In the near term, the research associate will support work on two special projects. The first project is on industrial policy, considering the role of government in steering private investment decisions and the industrial composition of the economy. The second project is on community transformations linked to domestic and global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and changing global trading relationships. The research associate will support the team on research, data analysis, writing, external engagement and organizing events.
Roles and responsibilities
Working closely with relevant research directors and other research staff, the research associate will be responsible for:
- Identifying, organizing and synthesizing existing research;
- Undertaking data analysis and creating figures and graphics for publications;
- Contributing to the writing of background documents and publications, translating complex data and research insights into clear and concise findings for a policy and public audience;
- Assisting in the preparation and writing of op-eds, policy briefs and other material;
- Helping to organize meetings with external representatives from governments, academia, communities, businesses, unions, Indigenous organizations and other relevant areas; and
- Supporting event planning and organization for conferences, workshops, and webinars.
Required skills and experience
The ideal candidate will have:
- A graduate degree in public policy, economics or another relevant field;
- Experience in data analytics and policy research, with knowledge of Canadian public policy;
- Knowledge of relevant public policy issues;
- Proven ability to work at the intersection of academic and policy research;
- Strong quantitative research skills, with the ability to find, analyze and interpret relevant data, as well as present findings through charts, tables or other graphics in a compelling way;
- Proficiency in statistical analysis tools (e.g., Excel, R, STATA or Python) and data-visualization tools (e.g., Tableau or Power BI);
- Strong writing and presentation skills in at least one official language; and
- Ability to understand both French and English (written and oral).
Working at the IRPP
We offer a competitive salary and a collegial work culture that is rooted in creativity, inclusivity, integrity, and flexibility. Members of our team work on a fascinating range of different initiatives across our operations and have the opportunity to develop their own projects when they align with strategic directions. We thrive on the exchange of ideas, both internally and with external partners.
The salary range is $60,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
The IRPP offers a hybrid workplace based in Montreal. Candidates should expect to spend at least two days a week in the Montreal office. For candidates applying from outside Montreal, remote work arrangements are negotiable. Candidates must be Canadian, a permanent resident or possess a valid work visa for Canada.
The IRPP is committed to employment equity within its community, and to recruiting a diverse staff. We encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, and other racialized persons; 2SLGBTQIA+ persons; and Canadians living with disabilities. Candidates are invited to self-identify in their applications. Please let us know if you have accommodation requirements to facilitate participation in the selection process by reaching out to us at the email address below.
How to Apply
Please submit a letter of application and curriculum vitae that demonstrates that you have the skills and experience required for the position by e-mail to Smcintyre@nullirpp.org, before June 18, 2025, at 5 p.m. EST.
We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Contact to schedule interviews will be made before June 30.
