Research Associate in Tunable-Laser Sensing of Gases

The Role

We are looking for an early-career Research Associate in Tunable-Laser Sensing of gases for the Aerosol & Gas Metrology Team within the Metrology Research Centre. The Research Associate (RA) would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity. The research team has a wide spectrum of expertise in the emerging fields of aerosol science, climate science, gas characterization, spectroscopy, and metrology.  

The selected candidate will:  

• Work collaboratively with an international team of NRC researchers, academics, and industry partners to develop a new laser-spectroscopy based instrument capable of measuring the concentrations of multiple gaseous species, including nitrogen monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, and water, with high precision and accuracy; 
• Conduct research independently, while gaining hands-on experience in aerosol and gas characterization with the support of researchers in a larger team;
• Work closely with the research team and produce refereed publications, technical reports, and/or patents (if applicable) as the project progresses. 

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

As part of the RA Program you must have received your PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline within the last five years or you expect to receive the degree within the next six months.  The candidate must have a focus on optical techniques for characterization of aerosols or gases and development of methods thereof, as demonstrated by thesis work and/or publications. 

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

Experience

Required:

• Experience in optical diagnostic methods for the measurement of aerosols or gases;
• Experience in optical instrument design, system integration, troubleshooting, testing, and performance evaluation; and
• Practical experience working independently and within a team on joint projects and achieving recognized and quantifiable results.

Additionally valued experience:

• Experience with safe operation of lasers, compressed gases, and handling of delicate optical components and electrostatic-sensitive devices; 
• Experience in optical spectroscopy;
• Experience in solid 3D CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks) for fabrication of 3D-printed or machined parts;
• Experience in the use of software and modern programming languages (e.g. LabView, Python, C/C++) for hardware control;
• Experience with the design and fabrication of analog and/or digital circuits; and
• Experience working with and/or designing data acquisition systems.

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

• Practical knowledge of molecular absorption spectra and spectroscopic techniques, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications, prior research or thesis work;
• Demonstrated ability to design, fabricate, integrate and implement free-space or integrated photonic-based systems;
• Demonstrated ability in instrument control via software (e.g. C/C++, FPGA, Python, etc.) on embedded systems; 
• Knowledge of sensor calibration, testing, validation, troubleshooting and identifying points for improvement;
• Demonstrated ability to write quality scientific reports and articles; and
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly in discussions and through presentations to project partners, and at scientific conferences, workshops and seminars.

Behavioural Competencies

Competency Profile(s)

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

View all competency profiles

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff through the Research Associate (RA) Program at the AsRO level, which is an early-career level position with a salary range of $82,338 to $114,354.

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 $82,338.

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.

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

Application Requirements:

In order to be considered for the Research Associate program please include the following in your application. Failure to do so will result in your application being excluded from searches.

• Resume
• Transcript
• Two letters of recommendation

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.