Research Assistant (Summer Intern)

Research Assistant (Summer Intern) – Canada China Business Council

The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) is seeking a Research Assistant to join its Corporate Head Office as a summer intern in Toronto. This position is part of CCBC’s Summer Internship Program and is funded through the Canada Summer Jobs program, an initiative of the Government of Canada.

Reporting to the Communications Manager and working closely with CCBC’s regional teams, the Research Assistant will support the Council’s research, policy, and thought leadership activities related to Canada–China business, trade, investment, and economic relations. The successful candidate will contribute to research projects, policy discussions, and stakeholder engagement initiatives while developing practical experience in research, analysis, writing, and communications. This role offers valuable exposure to current business and policy issues affecting Canadian organizations and Canada–China trade and economic relations.

Key Responsibilities

Includes but not limited to:

· Conduct preliminary research and monitor developments related to Canada–China business and economic relations, trade policy, bilateral agreements, sector-specific trends, and policy updates

· Compile, organize, and summarize research findings for internal briefings, policy notes, event materials, and strategic planning

· Assist in preparing background materials, data tables, reference documents, and visual aids that support CCBC research projects and program activities

· Contribute to drafting research summaries, policy briefs, talking points, and presentation materials.

· Support preparation of materials for roundtables, seminars, webinars, and policy discussions by compiling background research and speaker notes

· Maintain research files, databases, citations, bibliographies, and documentation to ensure accuracy and accessibility

· Prepare summaries of external events, conferences, webinars, and relevant media coverage related to Canada–China economic and policy developments

· Assist with basic data organization and interpretation for trade and investment figures relevant to CCBC’s research outputs

· Provide general research and administrative support to assist CCBC’s ongoing policy and program activities

Qualifications & Experience

· Relevant experience and/or education in policy research, strategic communications, public affairs, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in Canada–China or broader Canada–Asia trade, economic, and foreign policy issues gained through academic, professional, or policy-focused work

· Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information quickly and clearly

· Experience working with trade, investment, or economic data—such as Statistics Canada, UN Comtrade, or Chinese government sources—with the ability to interpret and present key trends clearly

· Educational background in international relations, economics, public policy, or business. Graduate level education (Masters or PhD) is an asset particularly with related focus on Asia-Pacific or China

· Proven experience writing and editing for executive-level audiences in a business, policy, or media environment

· Exceptional English writing and editing skills are essential; proficiency in French is a strong asset but not required

· Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple deadlines and priorities with minimal supervision

Work Environment & Location

This role follows a hybrid work model. Candidates based in Toronto are preferred given the location of CCBC’s headquarters and core team activities; however, strong candidates based in Ottawa or other CCBC chapter centres in Canada (Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax) are also encouraged to apply.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, a one-page cover letter outlining their interest in the position and relevant experience, and a sample research paper—preferably related to the Council’s work (e.g., Canada–China economic relations, the Chinese economy, or related topics) to hr@ccbc.com by end of day on June 15, 2026. Please reference “Research Assistant” in the subject line. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. No telephone inquiries please.

(Personal data collected will be used for recruitment purposes only).

Eligibility: Applicants must be legally eligible to work for a Canadian company under the requirements of the Canada Summer Jobs Program. Please consult the Government of Canada’s Job Bank website for eligibility requirements.

DISCLAIMER: The Canada China Business Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If contacted for an employment opportunity or testing, please advise Human Resources if you require accommodation.

Pay: $17.60 per hour

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Toronto, ON M5H 2A4