Policy Analyst, Research Category Development

We are a non-profit social enterprise that informs the public, inspires action, and act as catalysts for creating collaborative solutions that guide cities through a rapidly urbanizing world.

We envision cities as vibrant inclusive spaces where engaged residents are informed and inspired to build smart urban solutions. These cities enable residents to contribute to the social fabric of their communities and foster opportunities, belonging and happiness.

Position Summary

Neighbourhood building indicators act as our guide to developing great, resilient, and inclusive communities. Our organization collects and shares urban research across 18 categories. As part of our mission to empower neighbourhoods, we maintain and continuously expand comprehensive descriptions for each indicator.

As a Policy Analyst (Research Category Development), you will lead the ongoing development, research, and refinement of our 18 indicator categories. You will treat these indicators as a living research framework by integrating emerging policy insights, diverse neighbourhood perspectives, and public feedback to ensure our resources remain relevant, evidence-based, and actionable for leaders and urban advocates.

Duties & Responsibilities

Research & Indicator Framework Development

• Conduct targeted policy analysis and academic research to write, update, and edit comprehensive indicator descriptions across our 18 research categories.
• Utilize our proprietary research database to ensure all indicator frameworks reflect modern best practices and diverse urban perspectives.
• Synthesize complex literature on urban planning, civic infrastructure, and neighbourhood well-being into accessible, high-impact guidance focused on three questions:
  • Category Significance: Establishing why a specific research category is critical to building thriving neighbourhoods.
  • User Value: Framing why residents, urban leaders, and stakeholders should care about the category.
  • Peer Benchmarking & Best Practices: Documenting actionable examples of what other cities and neighborhoods are doing to drive performance and innovation in this area.

Governance, Tracking & Executive Reporting

• Prepare monthly briefings for leadership outlining recommended revisions, emerging urban trends, and category updates.
• Maintain strict version control, tracking modifications, author attributions, and source updates across the entire indicator repository.
• Work collaboratively across teams to align research category development with broader organizational publishing and technology initiatives.

Qualifications

• Graduated or enrolled in a University degree or College diploma or certificate program
• Have a background in systems thinking and urban development
• Must enjoy building and working with a community to advance goals
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with a desire to learn
• Strong organizational skills and an ability to keep on top of workload
• Sound computer skills including operating Google Suite

Application Process

Please submit your resume and cover letter to talent@imaginecities.com. For those who proceed to the next round, we will request an interview.