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Data Visualization & Communications Intern

Position Title: Data Visualization & Communications Intern

Location: National Centre for Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security and Resilience (NC-CIPSeR), Carleton University, Ottawa, ON (Remote opportunities available)

Position Type: Internship / Co-op / Volunteer

Duration: 4 to 6 months, with the possibility of extension

Project Overview

The National Centre for Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security and Resilience (NC-CIPSeR) is leading innovative research into the complex web of critical infrastructure interdependencies (CII)—the hidden connections between sectors that keep our society functioning. This project harnesses the power of large-scale public datasets and enterprise-grade business intelligence tools to assess and visualize these relationships in new, data-driven ways.

CII is notoriously difficult to measure due to the intricate and dynamic nature of supply chain relationships—factors like timing, geography, and the relative strength of interconnections all play a role. To address this, the project applies advanced statistical analysis and visualization techniques to extract meaningful insights from massive, real-world datasets.

Why It Matters

This project breaks new ground by automating CII assessments using quantitative data, allowing for repeatable, transparent, and context-specific risk evaluations. Unlike traditional approaches—often reliant on subjective expert opinion—this methodology is evidence-based and reproducible, setting a new standard for how we understand and manage interdependencies.

The outcomes of this work will support a wide range of applications, from policy development and regulatory improvements, to threat and risk modeling, simulation exercises, and real-time emergency response coordination. It represents a significant step toward smarter, more resilient infrastructure systems in Canada and beyond.

Job Description

As the Data Visualization & Communications Intern, you will support the National Centre for Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security and Resilience (NC-CIPSeR) in translating complex statistical research and CII risk analysis into clear, accessible, and visually compelling content. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge work at the intersection of data science, policy, and national resilience. You’ll work closely with researchers and policy experts to craft communication tools that inform real-world decision-making in critical infrastructure protection.

Responsibilities

Knowledge Translation: Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to distill and communicate complex quantitative research into engaging visual formats, including dashboards, infographics, and short explainer videos.

Technical Skills: Confident in configuring and managing computer systems, installing essential software packages, enabling secure remote access, and overseeing user accounts and security protocols. Adept at laying the digital groundwork that keeps operations smooth, secure, and connected.

Data-Driven Storytelling: Translate large datasets and statistical outputs into compelling narratives that illustrate interdependencies and risk relationships across infrastructure sectors.

Visual Design & Content Creation: Design and produce visual materials—including interactive dashboards, animations, and short videos—that align with NC-CIPSeR’s branding and communication goals.

Stakeholder Engagement: Work with subject matter experts, policy advisors, and statisticians to ensure content accuracy, clarity, and relevance to various audiences including government, industry, and the public.

Digital Distribution: Support the implementation of a distribution strategy across web, social media, and institutional platforms to maximize reach and uptake of research findings.

Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a program in Computer Science, Math, Statistics, Economics, Psychology or a related field. Equivalent experience also considered.

Skills:  Ability to understand and translate statistical content and datasets into accessible formats. Computer operating systems (including Windows) and software package management

Basic knowledge of spreadsheets (e.g. Excel, Sheets) and database API (REST, SQL)

Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with attention to tone and audience.

Interest: Passion for national security, public policy, or infrastructure resilience is an asset.

Steps to the Application Process

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.

To Apply

To get started, please complete our application form through the NC-CIPSeR Application Portal. You’ll be asked to answer a few brief questions, upload your CV, provide reference details, and share why you’re interested in working with us. This helps us get to know you and understand how your skills and interests align with our mission.

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 approval.

Application Deadline:

We accept applications on a rolling basis to accommodate the availability of our volunteers.

Join Us

This internship/volunteer position is an opportunity to be at the cutting edge of knowledge translation in the field of national security and critical infrastructure protection. You will not only contribute to enhancing the resilience of Canada’s critical infrastructure but also develop a portfolio of work that demonstrates your ability to communicate complex concepts through compelling visual storytelling.

 

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