Research Associate Program

The NRC Advantage

GREAT MINDS. ONE GOAL. CANADA'S SUCCESS. 

The National Research Council of Canada represents a powerful partnering option for anyone looking to push the boundaries of science and industry. In fact, as the Government of Canada's largest research organization supporting industrial innovation, the advancement of knowledge and technology development, we have become catalysts for innovation. For over a hundred years, the impact of our work with industry leaders and other government bodies has shaped Canada’s future. We partner with some of the most creative and solutions-driven minds in the world. 

And now, we want to partner with you. Be part of our collective force to come up with potentially disruptive solutions to Canada’s current and future technology challenges. Let your expertise and inspirations make an impact by joining the NRC.

Your Challenge

The Research Associate Program provides promising scientists and engineers with the opportunity to work in a challenging research environment during the early stages of their career. Applicants will be selected competitively and must demonstrate the ability to perform original, high-quality research in their chosen field.

Research Associates will be offered appointments to the staff of the National Research Council on a term basis and will be offered salaries and benefits currently available to Research Officers. Salaries commensurate with experience are taxable and subject to other deductions. As a guide, the current annual Ph.D. recruiting rate is $64,437.

Length of Term

The initial appointment will normally be for a two-year term, subject to the Associate's performance and subject to the requirements of NRC, appointments may be extended. The maximum period of employment as an Associate is five (5) years.

Who can Apply?

You are eligible for the Research Associate Program if you possess a Ph.D. in natural science or engineering or a Master's degree in an engineering field earned within the last five years, or you expect to obtain the degree within six months. You must have a demonstrated ability to perform original high-quality research in your chosen field. This will be the main criterion used in selecting candidates and in considering extensions of their term.

Although preference will be given to Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents, Associateships are open to nationals of all countries. The offer of an Associateship does not ensure foreign nationals Permanent Residency in Canada. Non-Canadian candidates should apply for non-immigrant status (i.e. temporary status) and an employment visa.  For further information, please contact the closest Canadian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate in your area.

Condition of Employment

Reliability Status

Application Requirements

In order to be considered for the program please include the following in your application, 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 from searches.

• Resume
• Transcript - an electronic copy is sufficient, it does not have to be an official version.
• Two letters of recommendation (please note that you need to attach the letters to your application profile, your referees will need to provide you with their letters so that you can attach it to your application)

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

Additionally, in order to maximize your chances of being considered for opportunities, ensure to include your preferred location(s) in the Preferred Location(s) section of the application.

Relocation

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

Salary Range

From $52,854 to $149,416 per annum. 

The Research Associate (RA) Program is unique to the NRC. It falls under the RO/RCO classification system which uses a person-based classification system instead of the more common duties-based classification system. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, skill, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience.

Notes

• NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of benefits including comprehensive health and dental plans, pension and insurance plans, vacation and other leave entitlements.
• Associateships are open to nationals of all countries, although 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.