Information Architecture

MI5 is an information business.  An understanding of the information we use is an essential part of us being able to make the most of what we have in an efficient, and legally-compliant way. We’re looking for a student who wants to learn more about the way information and data are handled in MI5, working for an 11-week summer placement within a multi-disciplinary team comprising information architects, business analysts, information managers and policy officers.

The Role

We look at information flows through our organisation to better understand what we’ve got, to ensure compliance checks and controls are applied in the right places, and to improve our ability to make the most of the information we have. You will work with experienced information managers to assess the impact of new technologies on our ability to process and manage data, making recommendations for how to better organise, distribute, protect and control information that supports our national security work.

By the end of your placement, you will have built up an understanding of the data challenges faced by modern intelligence agencies, and how we ensure we meet all our legal obligations in respect of the information we hold. You will have contributed to the smoother flow of information to our end users.

Key Responsibilities

-    Engage with information users, policy officers, legal advisors and project teams to build a shared understanding of the information management implications of new initiatives
-    Write documents or slides to communicate information risks to a variety of audiences (technical and less-technical), and ideas about how to mitigate them
-    Learn how an architectural approach to planning our information estate helps us better address information management requirements in the long term
-    Liaise with software engineers and expert partners to address the information management requirements of new technology
-    Gain experience working in team on a very wide range of matters at the intersection of intelligence work, policy and technology

The Person

Due to the nature of our organisation, a technical aptitude coupled with an interest in the ethical, sociological and political dimensions of the digital age are essential. Additionally, some understanding of how a computer system organises information will help you get the most out of the placement.

You should be on track to achieve at least a 2:2 degree when you graduate.

To apply please click here