Academic Associate

McGill University•Sherbrooke, QC

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Centre for Media, Technology and Democracy (CMTD) is an interdisciplinary research centre within the Max Bell School of Public Policy at McGill University. It operates at the intersection of rigorous research, technology policy, and democratic governance, employing an end-to-end model that translates scholarship into democratic impact. Over five years, CMTD has grown to a team of over 25, establishing an international reputation in technology governance, information integrity, and participatory democracy. The Centre integrates three streams: Empirical Research (Media Ecosystem Observatory - MEO), Policy Engagement (evidence-based analysis and recommendations on digital governance, information integrity, and democratic legitimacy), and Public Engagement (reports, policy memos, media relations, social media, events, and newsletters). Through Paradigms, CMTD also produces podcasts, convenes citizens’ assemblies, and runs deliberative processes. The Academic Associate - Policy leads the Centre's policy stream, translating research into actionable policy interventions and advancing evidence-based solutions. This role involves shaping strategic direction, driving impact on digital governance, overseeing policy outputs, cultivating relationships with policymakers, and informing public debate and regulatory development.

Requirements

Five or more years of experience in policy analysis, government affairs, or public policy, with substantial experience in digital technology, media, platform governance, or AI policy.
Experience managing a team of policy professionals, researchers, and/or fellows.
A track record of direct engagement with senior policymakers — as a government official, policy analyst, senior researcher, or civil society advocate.
Experience designing and facilitating multi-stakeholder processes, including roundtables, expert panels, or commissions.
Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to translate technical or academic research for policy audiences.
A graduate degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public policy, law, political science, communications, or a related discipline.
Authorized to work in Canada.
Willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
English communication both verbally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

An existing network of relationships with federal government officials, parliamentary staff, or digital policy regulators in Canada and internationally.
Familiarity with international technology governance processes, including the EU Digital Services Act, OECD AI governance frameworks, or UN-level digital policy.
Bilingualism in English and French (strongly preferred given CMTD’s Montreal location and sustained engagement with federal institutions).
A doctorate in public policy, political science, communication studies, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Set and co-lead CMTD’s policy research agenda, in alignment with institutional priorities across online harms, AI governance, platform regulation, and information integrity.
Identify emerging policy challenges and coordinate the Centre’s response.
Produce and oversee the development of high-quality policy outputs, including policy reports, briefs, consultation submissions, and op-eds.
Develop integrated strategies that connect research, policy design, and public engagement.
Supervise and mentor policy staff, fellows, and contractors; set project plans, deliverables, and accountability structures across the policy stream.
Manage the operational dimensions of the policy stream, including budgeting, funder reporting, and impact tracking.
Develop and maintain relationships with elected officials, senior civil servants, regulators, and parliamentary staff at the federal and provincial levels, and with key international counterparts.
Represent CMTD in legislative consultations, government briefings, regulatory proceedings, and parliamentary committee appearances.
Design and lead multi-stakeholder roundtables, expert working groups, and commissions.
Expand CMTD’s engagement in international technology governance fora, including at the OECD, UN, and EU levels.
Translate technical and academic research into clear, actionable recommendations for policymakers and the public.
Represent CMTD in media interviews, conferences, and public forums.
Develop CMTD’s policy positions in collaboration with the leadership team and research leads, ensuring they are grounded in evidence and clearly communicated.