AI/ML Research Officer - Materials & Process Optimization

The role

We are seeking a Research Officer (RO) with expertise in artificial intelligence integration and the development of diverse tools utilizing reinforcement learning, deep learning, and Bayesian approaches. These tools will be employed as needed to support the accelerated discovery, design, and development of novel clean energy and energy storage materials. The successful candidate will join the new Research Facility at the Clean Energy Innovation Research Centre in Mississauga. We are looking for someone who embodies our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect, and Creativity.

You will be working in a team environment with researchers and technical experts in our world-class facilities. Your role will focus on advancing research towards the next paradigm through the development and integration of a sophisticated data management framework in the theoretical, experimental, and material discovery workflows of self-driving laboratories.

As a Research Officer, you will collaborate closely with leaders in accelerated material discovery and subject matter experts to devise and implement robust AI integration strategies. These strategies will facilitate the seamless tracking, integration, and management of various tools within our research laboratories. Your responsibilities will encompass the entire research and development lifecycle, including data collection and validation, the design of database architectures and data integration systems, and the deployment of sophisticated applied tools. In our pursuit to elevate our capabilities, you will have the opportunity to investigate, recommend, and develop innovative AI-enabled digital frameworks and architectures that address diverse objectives within the field of materials science at CEI-Mississauga. You will either spearhead or partner with software developers to ensure that the data infrastructure is optimized for advanced data analytics and machine learning applications.

You will be involved in the development of new research proposals, management of research projects, maintenance of research partnerships with external academic, industrial and government collaborators and supervision of junior staff, students and vendors.

Being in a dynamic position means that the workdays are always evolving, challenging and motivating. You are a self-starter who can excel in an evolving and exciting R&D environment and provide input into the direction and priorities of R&D activities that will be set forth by this new initiative in Mississauga. If you are that person, this may be the perfect role for you!

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

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, or similar domain.  

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

Experience

• Proven experience* in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and/or machine learning (ML) solutions, particularly in research or laboratory environments, for application in materials science and/or process optimization 
• Proven experience* in robotic learning for materials science, including automating data extraction and analysis, particularly in mineral processing and/or energy storage applications
• Experience* with the development and implementation of AI/ML-based tools, including reinforcement learning, deep learning, and/or Bayesian methodologies.
• Experience* in large and multi format databases, including data handling and organization. 
• Significant experience** using Python (including libraries such as numpy, scipy, pandas, etc) 
• Strong publication record as evidenced by publications in high-impact journals

*Proven/Experience is defined as experience acquired within the last one to three years.

**Significant experience is defined as acquired over a period of three to five years or more

Assets:

• Experience with data lineage/tracking within the areas of material science, as well as in software development with a focus on AI applications, including skills in collaborating with or leading software development efforts, particularly in data analytics, machine learning, and proper use of version control systems.

Condition of employment

 Reliability Status

For a Reliability Status, verification of background information over a period of 5 years is required.

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

• Demonstrates advanced technical proficiency in implementing, configuring, and optimizing artificial intelligence and machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Keras, including the application of reinforcement learning, deep learning, and Bayesian modeling techniques.
• Applies advanced programming capabilities in languages relevant to AI development, particularly Python, and demonstrates technical proficiency in designing and maintaining frontend and backend architectures using frameworks such as Django, Node.js, React, or Angular.
• Knowledge of common clean energy technologies.
• Possesses technical competence in developing and managing data integration pipelines through APIs, ETL processes, and real-time data processing workflows, with emphasis on scalable and efficient AI-driven data environments.
• Applies specialized technical skills to diagnose, troubleshoot, and optimize AI systems, algorithms, and data management workflows to ensure performance, reliability, and accuracy.
• Demonstrates technical proficiency in using version control systems such as GitHub or GitLab for code management, branching strategies, and collaborative development in multi-user research environments.
• Applies expert knowledge of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles and implements them within AI and data science research to ensure compliance with data governance and reproducibility standards.
• Demonstrates technical capability in deploying and managing AI and data science applications within Linux-based environments, leveraging high-performance computing clusters or cloud computing infrastructures for large-scale data processing and model training.

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

The intent of this hiring action is to staff this position at the AsRO/AcRO level, which is a mid-career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $139,608. 

NOTE: Please note that the full RO/RCO salary scale has five levels. Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidate’s expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level.  As such, the initial salary could be within another level of the RO/RCO salary scale (i.e. above or below the intended level for this position).

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 NRC, named in 2025 one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!

As Canada’s largest research and innovation 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

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• ​A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one year period.
• Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. Please include citizenship 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.