Heather Burke

Heather Burke holds a master’s in psychology and is pursuing a PhD in forensic psychology at Carleton University. Her expertise spans illicit drug markets, drug supply chain analysis, organized crime and the evaluation of enforcement responses. 

Since joining CCSA in 2023, Heather has played a leading role in research that provides Public Safety Canada with data-driven analysis of Canada’s illicit drug supply chain, as well as the cost and impact of enforcement responses. Heather brings deep expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research methods and is passionate about advancing public health and safety through applied, interdisciplinary work. 

In addition to her role at CCSA, she is a contract instructor in the Psychology Department at both MacEwan University and Carleton University. 

Outside of her research, Heather is deeply interested in the ethical application of emerging technologies, including AI and open-source intelligence, to advance prevention, intervention, and evidence-based decision-making in public safety and health contexts.