Patrick Mikkelsen

Background

About Patrick Mikkelsen

Currently, I am working as a Research Assistant at University College in the University of Toronto, where I am contributing to research on Big Tech policies and cybercrime, specifically focusing on data privacy violations related to minors. My responsibilities include analyzing data on incidents of child sexual exploitation in Canada, the US, and the EU to enhance public awareness of this issue and protect vulnerable communities online. Also through this position, I am involved in monitoring the increase in sextortion cases targeting young men and boys and tracking legislative efforts to protect their rights in the digital sphere. Previously, I worked as a Research Assistant at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy under Dr. Shari Eli, where I was tasked with digitizing and analyzing archival records from early 20th-century schools of social work across North America. This research involved creating a database of over graduates, laying the foundation to identify trends and connections between their socioeconomic backgrounds and career outcomes. Through this work, I gained valuable experience in data extraction, archival research, and the use of artificial intelligence tools to streamline document analysis. At the University of Toronto, I am majoring in Public Policy and minoring in Digital Humanities and American Studies. I have participated in the Munk One First-Year Foundations program, where I engaged in discussions on pressing global issues such as climate change and educational accessibility in northern Canada. As the Public Policy & Advocacy Manager at Pflag Canada York Region, I monitor equity and inclusion policies. My work involves monitoring and assessing school board and local policies that impact the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I strive to ensure that the voices of marginalized groups are heard at the local, provincial, and national levels. I am eager to continue advancing my academic and professional skillset through new opportunities and learning experiences.