Research Officer, Analytical Chemistry

The Role

We are looking for a Research Officer (RO) specializing in analytical chemistry to strengthen the Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Centre’s (ACRD) core in the characterization of bio-products using mass spectrometry. This person would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

Our synergistic work environment needs a team member with skills in developing advanced analytical methods to characterize the chemical composition of raw materials, functional ingredients, and complex mixtures using mass spectrometry. Supported by multiple Agilent liquid chromatography (LC) instruments, a SCIEX Qtrap 4000 and 5500 System and an Agilent gas chromatograph (GC) coupled to a 7000D Triple Quadrupole mass spectrometer, you will work collaboratively in a team environment with researchers and technical experts. In this position, your focus will be on the analysis of various small molecules, including volatiles and complex lipids, as well as molecules from microbial fermentation. Responsibilities will include developing proposals for new research initiatives, managing projects, and providing technical oversight for collaborations with internal and external partners. In your role of Research Officer, you will also deliver excellence in service to NRC clients and contribute to the overall direction and research priorities within their field of expertise, in alignment with the research centres business plan. 

You will be responsible for conducting advanced and novel research at NRC’s Aquatic and Crop Resource Development (ACRD) Research Centre facilities in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The role involves attracting academic and industrial partners to characterize the chemical content of bio-based products.
 

Why Work With Us

We collaborate with industry, academia and government partners to develop and transform agricultural and marine bioresources into food, feed and ingredients, and other high value bioproducts.
 
The services we offer include:

• Collaborative research opportunities
• Access to expert researchers and technicians
• Scientific advice and technical services
• Projects tailored to client needs using our specialized facilities
• Research and development support

Our goal is to help strengthen the economy by growing global markets for Canadian industry. 

About ACRD

We perform advanced scientific research and provide research services and technology development for the sustainable transformation of Canadian bio-based resources into higher-value products.
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About Charlottetown

The essence of Charlottetown is the quality of life it offers its citizens. Situated on the beautiful Charlottetown Harbour with boardwalks that stretch almost the entire southern exposure of the city.  A clean and safe family community which also happens to be the centre of activity, amenities, shopping and entertainment, all at a very low cost of living. There are beaches, golf courses and walking trails all around the Island and a rich landscape for nature lovers to enjoy. 

Screening Criteria

Applicants must demonstrate within the content of their application that they meet the following screening criteria in order to be given further consideration as candidates:

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry, or PhD in a related discipline with practical research experience in an analytical chemistry discipline.

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

Experience

1. Significant research experience in developing and implementing analytical methodologies to separate and quantify small molecules and secondary metabolites in bio-resources and complex mixtures. 
2. Significant experience in development and validation of advanced tandem mass spectrometry methodologies including analyte introduction, ionization, parent and fragment ion detections, data processing, and interpretation of the results.  
3. Experience in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting mass spec instruments in conjunction with gas and liquid chromatography.
4. Significant experience across the full spectrum of research activities, including identifying research requirements, proposal writing, project management, data production and analysis, and reporting through written documentation, presentations and publishing. 
5. Experience in assembling project teams with diverse skill sets, encompassing analytical and natural product chemistry, biochemistry, marine biology, microbial fermentation and downstream processing.
6. Experience in business development and in fostering collaborations and interactions with external partners.
    

Condition of Employment

 Reliability Status

Language Requirements

English 

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment Criteria

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

Technical Competencies

1. Demonstrated ability to design and implement analytical methods for the separation and characterization of complex mixtures along with the quantifications of various bio-molecules (e.g, volatiles, lipids, and microbial metabolites)
2. Demonstrated technical expertise in the development and validation of advanced mass spec methodologies (e.g., MRM, SRM, data independent MS/MS), including data processing and the use of MS software and databases. 
3. Demonstrated technical expertise to optimize analytical methods and troubleshoot any technical issues arising from the MS instrumentation, sample preparation, or analytical protocols.
4. Strong collaboration skills with ability to influence priorities and activities within their field of expertise.
5. Demonstrated ability to write high-quality research articles, communicate findings to partners and clients, and present findings at relevant conferences, meetings, and workshops.

Behavioural Competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile(s): Research

View all competency profiles

Compensation

This position is classified as a Research Officer (RO), a group that is unique to the NRC. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $63,470 to $179,422 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions.

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.

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Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the National Research Council (NRC). As Canada’s leading research and technology organization, our world-renowned research pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to make the impossible, possible. Every day we explore new ideas through innovative research and help companies discover possibilities that impact Canada’s future and the world.

At the NRC, you’ll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity, welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. You’ll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly, you’ll discover what’s possible within you as you grow, make valuable contributions and progress in your professional journey. From ground-breaking discoveries to a life-changing career, discover your possible at the NRC.

Notes

• A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one-year period.
• This position is being advertised internally and externally simultaneously, however first consideration will be given to internal NRC applicants.
• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada. Please include citizenship or permanent resident status information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.