Research Associate, Quantum Metrology

The role

Help bring research to life and drive your career forward with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada's largest research and technology organization.

 
We are looking for a Research Associate (RA), to join our Nanoscale Measurement Team within the Metrology Research Centre. The Metrology Research Centre is committed to fostering innovation through high-precision measurement science and advancements in metrology. The RA would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

 
The RA will join a team of experts performing original research and development, advancing the field of metrology in quantum sensing and method development for material characterization.

 
Using your understanding of physical principles and your hands-on skills, you will work with our team to develop, research and establish capabilities in quantum sensing and metrology. You will contribute to projects focused on optical sensing systems for nanoscale detection, integrated photonic devices, and quantum-enabled optical technologies. 

 
Working with other members of the team, The RA will:

• Design, participate in, and execute experiments in quantum optics, applying novel quantum optical sources to probe and resolve nanomaterial properties;
• Work in metrology labs with other research and technical team members to support research activities;
• Acquire and analyze data; 
• Report and disseminate results.

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

A doctoral degree in electrical engineering, optics, physics, engineering physics or a closely related field.
A Master’s degree in engineering physics, engineering (electrical, mechanical, other), or in physics, along with relevant experience may also be considered.  

As part of the RA Program you must have received your PhD within the last five years or you expect to receive the degree within the next six months.

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

Experience

• Hands-on experience in a scientific lab setting and using a variety of laboratory test equipment;
• Experience working with quantum optics, nonlinear optics and/or atomic and molecular physics;
• Experience working with optical components and systems;
• Experience collecting and analysing data; and dissemination of results. 

Experience in the following are assets:

• Python or other programming experience;
• Metrology;
• Nanoscale material characterization  
• Infrared spectroscopy
• Optical spectroscopy

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

• Solid knowledge of laboratory measurement devices;
• Extensive knowledge of physical principles;
• Solid knowledge of programming languages for experimental control, data acquisition and data analysis;
• Ability to identify problems related to experimental techniques or approaches and/or to propose or develop solutions;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; 
• Demonstrated ability to conduct experimental research in relevant areas; and
• Ability to write high quality research articles, technical reports, and to communicate research findings to partners and clients.

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Research; 

View all competency profiles

Relocation

Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff this position at the RCO-2/AsRO level, which is an early-career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $116,641. 

NOTE: 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 a guide, the current annual PhD recruiting rate is $83,985.

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 2026 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

Application Requirements:

To be considered for the Research Associate program please note that you will need to attach the required documents as per the list below when submitting your application.  Failure to do so will result in your application being excluded.

• Resume
• Transcript
• In addition, applicants who best meet the requirements of the position may be asked to provide references at a later stage of the competition process.

When submitting your application, you can include the required documents in any attachment field such as «Second language evaluation results» or «Other attachments».

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• 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.