I'm Cassandra Buenafe, a Master of International Relations student at the University of Melbourne with hands-on experience in sustainability research, social research interviewing, and data-driven market intelligence. I enjoy turning complex findings into clear, engaging narratives for academic and public audiences, and I thrive in interdisciplinary teams that advance sustainability reporting and policy impact. I am currently pursuing advanced study in IR and have worked across academia and industry to support evidence-based decision-making in education, health, and public policy. I’m passionate about applying rigorous research, thoughtful analysis, and storytelling to advance sustainable outcomes and public value.

Ma. Cassandra Buenafe

I'm Cassandra Buenafe, a Master of International Relations student at the University of Melbourne with hands-on experience in sustainability research, social research interviewing, and data-driven market intelligence. I enjoy turning complex findings into clear, engaging narratives for academic and public audiences, and I thrive in interdisciplinary teams that advance sustainability reporting and policy impact. I am currently pursuing advanced study in IR and have worked across academia and industry to support evidence-based decision-making in education, health, and public policy. I’m passionate about applying rigorous research, thoughtful analysis, and storytelling to advance sustainable outcomes and public value.

Available to hire

I’m Cassandra Buenafe, a Master of International Relations student at the University of Melbourne with hands-on experience in sustainability research, social research interviewing, and data-driven market intelligence. I enjoy turning complex findings into clear, engaging narratives for academic and public audiences, and I thrive in interdisciplinary teams that advance sustainability reporting and policy impact.

I am currently pursuing advanced study in IR and have worked across academia and industry to support evidence-based decision-making in education, health, and public policy. I’m passionate about applying rigorous research, thoughtful analysis, and storytelling to advance sustainable outcomes and public value.

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Work Experience

Intern at Sustainable Finance Hub, Melbourne Climate Futures, The University of Melbourne
August 1, 2025 - December 1, 2025
Supported an interdisciplinary sustainability research project through literature reviews, desk reviews, and stakeholder mapping. Assisted in developing a book chapter on sustainability. Contributed to research exhibits and designed a research poster, communicating sustainability insights to academic and public audiences. Collaborated with researchers and program leads to advance the University’s sustainability objectives and reporting initiatives.
Research Interviewer (Part-time) at The Social Research Centre
August 1, 2024 - November 1, 2024
Conducted structured interviews using Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) systems for large-scale social research and government studies. Ensured high data quality through accurate survey administration, respondent engagement, and adherence to strict protocols. Contributed to research projects with national significance in areas such as education, health, and public policy. Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills, helping to improve response rates and ensure inclusive participation across diverse communities.
Research Analyst II at RingCentral, Inc. (through Acquire BPO)
October 1, 2022 - July 1, 2023
Spearheaded strategic sales and marketing support through comprehensive target account analysis across the buyer's journey. Executed data-driven lead verification and Salesforce updates, ensuring high-quality information integrity. Crafted compelling microsites and email templates using Folloze, driving personalized marketing campaigns for key accounts. Collaborated with the Account-Based Marketing team to optimize workflows by developing industry-specific templated content, reducing time spent on content creation while still maintaining quality. Delivered insightful research presentations to management and Account Executives, facilitating informed decision-making. Maintained dynamic research outputs, adapting to evolving market trends and client needs. Demonstrated expertise in Salesforce, ZoomInfo, and LinkedIn Sales Navigator, optimizing lead generation and account management processes.
Research Analyst I at RingCentral, Inc. (through Acquire BPO)
August 1, 2021 - October 1, 2022
Spearheaded development of quantitative consumer insights and supported day-to-day research operations, contributing to client-facing reporting and decision-making.
Editorial Assistant at Fourth Estate Public Benefit Corporation
November 1, 2020 - August 1, 2021
Supported editorial operations by fact-checking, proofreading, and formatting content in line with the organization’ s standards and public interest mission. Assisted in managing digital content workflows, including article scheduling and content updates.
Research Associate at Kantar Philippines
November 1, 2019 - February 1, 2020
Supported the largest client account, a leading telecommunications company, by managing day-to-day research operations and data deliverables. Assisted in the development and analysis of quantitative consumer insights, helping inform brand and marketing strategies. Coordinated with internal teams and client stakeholders to ensure timely reporting on key performance metrics. Contributed to high-impact presentations and reports used by the client’s senior leadership for decision-making.
News Researcher at ABS-CBN Corporation
April 1, 2019 - October 1, 2019
Curated and compiled resources to enrich election-related stories within the Integrated News and Current Affairs department. Contributed as a member of the Investigative and Research Group, enhancing story depth through thorough analysis and fact-checking. Monitored and analyzed election-related news and events to ensure timely and accurate reporting. Managed and updated comprehensive databases to support editorial needs. Provided assistance in news gathering as required, contributing to the overall reporting process.

Education

Master of International Relations at University of Melbourne
July 1, 2023 - June 1, 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at University of the Philippines
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2019

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Government, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Media & Entertainment