Application Portal
Welcome, and thank you for your interest in volunteering with the National Centre for Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security, and Resilience (NC-CIPSeR).
Our volunteers play a vital role in advancing research, collaboration, and education to strengthen the safety and resilience of Canada’s critical infrastructure. This application helps us understand your interests, skills, and areas you’d like to support. Please take a few minutes to complete the application form. We look forward to learning more about you and your interest in this space.
75% of Applicants get hired
Most applicants successfully join NC-CIPSeR as valued volunteers.
100% Mentorship
Volunteers are paired with a mentor from government, industry or academia
100% of your time is tracked
Hours count – toward resumes, co-op credit, course criteria or funding.
3000+ hours
Volunteers support meaningful projects across Canada each year.
60% Advance to related careers
Many volunteers move on to jobs, co-ops, or grad school.
10 Sectors supported
Volunteers work in energy, communications, transportation or finance sectors.
About NC-CIPSeR
The National Centre for Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security, and Resilience (NC-CIPSeR) is a non-profit organization based at Carleton University dedicated to advancing Canada’s understanding and capability in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
We work at the intersection of research, policy, education, and collaboration—bringing together experts from government, industry, and academia to address the evolving threats and vulnerabilities facing Canada’s essential systems. From cyber and physical security to natural disasters and emerging technologies, our work helps protect the infrastructure that supports national security, economic stability, and public well-being.
The National Centre for Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security and Resilience (NC-CIPSeR) at Carleton University invites experienced professionals and industry veterans to join our mission as Volunteer Researchers, Analyst & Mentors. This dual-faceted role allows you to make significant contributions to safeguarding Canada’s critical infrastructure while guiding and inspiring the next generation of experts. If you have a rich background in project management, intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, emergency management, or threat and risk assessment, and are driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact and nurture emerging talent, this opportunity is for you.
About Carleton University
Located in Ottawa, Carleton is an innovative teaching and research institution with a tradition of leading change. Internationally recognized academics, staff, and researchers engage more than 31,000 students in over 100 programs of study. Carleton has long been known for promoting research excellence and connectedness and is involved in partnerships around the globe. With strong leadership, it enjoys a healthy financial position and our proximity to government and cultural institutions, media, and a thriving knowledge economy make Carleton and Ottawa a great place to work, learn, and live. Our picturesque campus is fully accessible and, along with award-winning student services, Carleton’s Paul Menton Centre for Students with Disabilities has been heralded as the gold standard for disability support services in Canada. Learn more about our university and the city of Ottawa at https://carleton.ca/deputyprovost/jobs/.
Carleton University is committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our university including, but not limited to: women and gender equity-seeking groups; racialized individuals; Indigenous Peoples; persons with disabilities; and persons of any sexual orientation and/or expression. Furthermore, Carleton understands that career paths vary and interruptions will not prejudice the assessment process. We invite you to review our revitalized Indigenous strategy, Kinàmàgawin at https://carleton.ca/indigenousinitiatives/cu_file/kinamagawin/ and visit our Department of Equity and Inclusive Communities at http://carleton.ca/equity for information about our commitment to leadership in the areas of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Accessibility is a university strategic priority and applicants selected for an interview who require accommodations are invited to contact us as soon as possible to ensure that appropriate arrangements may be made.
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. All positions are subject to budgetary and staffing approval.
Application Process
We accept applications on a rolling basis to accommodate the availability of our volunteers.Joining NC-CIPSeR is a structured and supportive process designed to set you up for success. From your initial application through to orientation and project assignment, each step is intentional—ensuring you understand our mission, meet foundational requirements, and are fully prepared to contribute meaningfully. Once completed, you’ll be matched with a mentor and begin your journey on a project that aligns with your skills and interests. This process helps us maintain a high standard of engagement, professionalism, and impact across everything we do.
- Application
- References check
- Interview
- Privacy & Confidentiality, Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy and Guidelines
- AODA training (online and free)
- Workplace training (online and free)
- Volunteer Agreement – tailored and signed (only after all other admin has been completed)
- Volunteer Orientation
- Mentor Assigned and Project Assigned
Volunteer Application
Creating a Volunteer Application Form