Cyber Security Advisor, Research

Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance and risk-based assessments to enable secure and compliant research across the University.
• Serve as a highly visible, researcher-facing information security advisor, bridging the gap between IT security operations and research administration.
• Deliver consultative advisory services to researchers, research staff, and research offices to meet evolving security expectations from sponsors and regulatory bodies.
• Align enterprise security capabilities with research-specific needs while maintaining trust-based relationships with the academic community.
• Advise and brief senior stakeholders on information security risks and recommendations.
• Handle sensitive and confidential information, including threat intelligence and research involving national security or controlled goods, with high discretion.

Requirements

• University degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years of experience in information security, risk assessment, compliance, or security advisory.
• Substantive experience working directly with researchers, faculty, or similar autonomous expert client communities in a consultative capacity.
• Strong working knowledge of the research ecosystem, including data handling, research computing, and funder expectations.
• Familiarity with Canadian cyber security frameworks and higher education sector requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Government of Canada security clearance (up to Secret or Top Secret) if required.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and influence outcomes through credibility.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced or graduate degree in a related field.
• Relevant professional security certifications.
• Experience working within GRC platforms for control documentation and assessment tracking.
• Experience working within the post-secondary education sector.

About the Company

The University of Toronto is a global leader in research and education, dedicated to fostering a culture of belonging and excellence. We embrace diversity and are committed to building an inclusive community that strengthens our academic mission.