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- Tasks: Join a youth-led ThinkTank, conduct research, and contribute to impactful whitepapers.
- Company: University of Toronto Venture Club, a pioneering initiative for youth insights.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, visibility through publications, and develop strategic research skills.
- Other info: Flexible remote work with opportunities for growth and networking.
- Why this job: Make a difference in youth policy and innovation while collaborating with like-minded peers.
- Qualifications: Current university students or recent grads with a passion for research and social impact.
Remote | Volunteer / Fellowship | University of Toronto Venture Club Strategic ThinkTank Unit
About The Role
UTVC is recruiting a new cohort of Strategic Research Associates to join our Youth ThinkTank Unit — a national initiative to build Canada’s most future-focused, youth-led insight and foresight network. You will have the chance to select your area of focus, join closed-door research pods and contribute to whitepapers and briefings shared with top-tier stakeholders across policy, finance, innovation and education! We anticipate the commitment to be the entire semester (4 months).
Research Areas (Choose Your Focus)
- Trends – Monitor shifts in values, identities, and future-of-work directions in areas such as venture investment or government policy updates
- Personas – Track emerging youth leaders, influencers, thinkers and their networks to identify investment-worthy startups
- Policy – Observe and interpret education, funding and youth legislation changes
- Innovation – Map black swan ideas, creative ecosystems and early-stage research movement
What You’ll Do
- Actively observe specific social/academic/ideological ecosystems in your city, school, or digital niche
- Submit structured insight briefings (we provide templates + training) once per month to prepare for semi-annual whitepaper distribution
- Collaborate on trend maps, visual insight decks, and youth-focused whitepapers
Ideal Candidates
- Current university students (UG/Masters/PhD) or recent grads who want to contribute to an insight report
- Highly curious, pattern-seeking, and systems-thinking oriented
- With backgrounds or interests in: research, journalism, policy, venture and social impact
- Bonus: experience in student societies or innovation networks
Why Join
- Be part of Canada’s first student-led youth ThinkTank unit
- Learn structured strategic observation and research tools
- Gain visibility via publications, whitepapers, and select briefings
To Apply
Submit One Of The Following:
- A short insight memo (max 300 words) on any youth-related phenomenon you’ve noticed
- Your resume + 100-word paragraph on why you’re interested
Apply via email: leo.huang@alumni.utoronto.ca [Titled: Strategic Research Associate + your region + your name]
Deadline: Rolling applications — we recommend applying early for priority consideration
Strategic Research Associate (Youth Insight & Emerging Society) employer: Ukrainian Association of UTM
Contact Detail:
Ukrainian Association of UTM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Research Associate (Youth Insight & Emerging Society)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Strategic Research Associates and ask them about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to interview, make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for youth insights and emerging trends. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making an impact!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some killer questions! Think about what you want to learn from the role and the team. Asking thoughtful questions shows that you're engaged and serious about contributing to our mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for fresh talent who can bring new perspectives to our ThinkTank!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Research Associate (Youth Insight & Emerging Society)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Insight Memo: If you choose to submit an insight memo, make sure it’s engaging and concise. Focus on a youth-related phenomenon that genuinely interests you, and don’t forget to back up your observations with examples or data. This is your chance to showcase your analytical skills!
Tailor Your Resume: When sending in your resume, highlight experiences that align with the role. Whether it's research, journalism, or involvement in student societies, make sure to emphasise how your background makes you a great fit for the Strategic Research Associate position.
Show Your Passion in the Paragraph: In your 100-word paragraph, let your enthusiasm shine through! Explain why you’re excited about this opportunity and how it aligns with your career goals. We want to see your personality and passion for youth insights and emerging societal trends.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to apply! Since we have rolling applications, getting your application in early can give you a better chance at priority consideration. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and eager to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ukrainian Association of UTM
✨Know Your Research Areas
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific research areas mentioned in the job description. Whether it's trends, personas, policy, or innovation, be prepared to discuss your insights and how you can contribute to these tracks. This shows your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Curiosity
As a Strategic Research Associate, curiosity is key! Prepare examples of how you've demonstrated curiosity in your past experiences. Whether it’s through academic projects, internships, or personal initiatives, share stories that highlight your pattern-seeking and systems-thinking abilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Insight Briefings
Since you'll be submitting structured insight briefings, it’s a good idea to review any templates or examples you can find. Practice summarising complex information clearly and concisely, as this will be crucial for your role and will impress your interviewers.
✨Engage with Current Trends
Stay updated on current youth-related phenomena and trends in policy, finance, and innovation. Bring up recent articles or studies during your interview to demonstrate your engagement with the field. This not only shows your knowledge but also your passion for contributing to the ThinkTank.