Research Officer - Computational Materials and Process Simulation

The role

We are looking for a Research Officer - Computational Materials and Process Simulation to support our Clean Energy Innovation (CEI) research center. The Research Officer would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

You will work on accelerating the design, synthesis, scale up, characterization and validation of novel powder materials for clean energy applications with a focus of applying computational tools to materials research and development (R&D). You will work in a collaborative team of researchers, technical staff and students and will manage collaborations with external partners within the materials R&D, manufacturing and application in clean technologies from academia and other government departments (OGDs). You will have demonstrated excellence in the form of research (publications, patents, presentations, etc.), leadership and relationship building and collaboration, technology exploration (patents, licenses, and other outputs such as cultivars, standards, policies and guidelines, technical services, etc.).

You will participate the growth of activities on plasma-based powder R&D, including but not limit to novel micro & nano particles synthesis, spheroidization, reconditioning, functionalization, thermal treatment and characterization at CEI Mississauga, your main contribution will be applying your computational and simulation skills for materials and process optimization. You will lead the effort in the development and application of tools and techniques for accelerating the discovery and demonstration of these new materials. Your responsibilities will include development of new research initiatives, preparation of research proposals, management and execution of R&D projects, leadership of collaborative research project teams, development and maintenance of research partnerships and delivery of services to clients as required. 

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 materials science, metallurgy, chemical engineering or engineering physics or related areas with at least five years’ experience in Computational Materials and Process Simulation.

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

Experience

• Significant experience in applying simulation and modeling tools and methods for materials design and process optimization.
• Experience in materials synthesis and characterization
• Experience working in multidisciplinary research teams and managing projects 
• Experience in developing and overseeing external research partnerships and collaborations.
• Knowledge of and experience with advanced approaches to accelerate materials development, such as high-throughput experimentation, automation, or artificial intelligence and machine learning, would be considered an asset.

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

• Knowledge and ability to apply computational and simulation tools, including but not limit to Density Functional Theory (DFT), Molecular Dynamics (MD), and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for materials design and process optimization.
• Knowledge of materials science, powder materials synthesis and processing techniques.
• Knowledge in materials characterization, including sample preparation, instrument operation and data analysis, with familiarity in using common techniques/equipment for characterizing materials including microscopy, spectroscopy, laser diffraction, adsorption.
• Ability to develop and manage research projects and lead a technical research team.

Assets:

• Knowledge in AI/ML, and lab automation
• Knowledge in plasma technologies (thermal and non-thermal) and its application in materials development

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 level, which is an early to mid-career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $116,641. 

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.