Safeguarding Research Analyst

Description

The  Research Security, Ethics, and Compliance (RSEC) division  in the  Office of VP Research  invites applications for a  Safeguarding Research Analyst . This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

The Research Security, Ethics & Compliance (RSEC) Division works within the Office of Research Services at the University of Calgary to support and advise researchers and employees across the University ecosystem on research security and ethics requirements, risks, and ongoing compliance. The RSEC team is comprised of a director, 4 managers, 14 specialists, and analysts.

The Due Diligence team supports the UCalgary community through the provision of open-source risk assessments, tailored risk mitigation plans, and advice and guidance on Canadian and international research security policies and requirements.

The Safeguarding Research Analyst reports to the Manager, Due Diligence. This role works on a regular work schedule (Monday to Friday), 35 hours per week, and is a member of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE).

The work environment is fast-paced and service-oriented. The position is driven by constant, multiple, and simultaneous deadlines, continuous change, and shifting priorities. The incumbent works independently, possesses very strong time management skills, superior research skills, high attention to detail, and superior organizational and communication skills.

Summary of

Key Responsibilities  (job functions include but are not limited to):

Conduct in-depth open-source intelligence (OSINT) risk assessments on a wide range of entities. Prepare written reports outlining findings, potential risks, and geopolitical considerations.

Deliver verbal briefings on risk assessment findings to members of the university community.

Provide guidance on research security requirements related to research funding to the research community.

Understand and communicate methods to mitigate risk in a research environment, including risks related to lab security, data management, IP management, etc.

Provide the research community with in-depth guidance and support in the completion of risk mitigation plans and risk assessment forms.

Monitor and provide analysis of research security policies in Canada and elsewhere.

Monitor trends and understand emerging methods for the conduct of open-source intelligence.

Monitor and provide analysis of key geopolitical developments that may impact research security.

Work with the compliance team to monitor projects and partners and to identify new or evolving risks.

Liaise with other university units, post-security institutions, and government bodies to understand best practices in research security, evolving research funding requirements and guidelines, and share risk intelligence.

Qualifications / Requirements:

A university degree with a focus on Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, Law, Economics, or Social Sciences. A master's degree is strongly preferred.

Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience.

Strong knowledge of research security, including Canadian research security requirements (e.g., Policy on Sensitive Technology Research and Affiliations of Concern and National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships).

Significant depth of understanding of geopolitics and risks for researchers.

Demonstrated experience in a research environment, preferably at a major university or college, or government office.

Experience with open-source intelligence gathering is a significant asset.

Experience conducting policy analysis and producing written and verbal guidance is a significant asset.

Demonstrated ability to apply high-level critical thinking…