Research Associate, Detection and automation

The NRC has an important role within the Government of Canadas Defence Industrial Strategy accelerating research and innovation and helping Canadian businesses develop leading-edge technologies for civilian and military use.

With expertise across fields such as transportation quantum science medical countermeasures and advanced manufacturing the NRC is hiring to drive the development of national sovereign defence capabilities. The following role will support the NRCs contributions to defence priorities.

We are looking for a Research Associate Detection and Automation (RA) to support our Quantum and Nanotechnologies (QN) Research Centre. The incumbent would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity Excellence Respect and Creativity.

Our team is developing a variety of techniques for measuring materials important in the environment including contaminents and pathogens in cost effective and portable devices that can be automated. We are seeking a candidate that is looking for a dynamic team-oriented setting to contribute to creating new detection methods devices and protocols that can provide critical information about environmental contaminants.

These devices are intended to identify threats in the environment where key problems from our collaborators inspire our efforts. Key collaborators from ECCC DFO and DRDC enable guiding our efforts toward real-world applications including field tests.

The Research Associate Detection and Automation will be able to contribute to core development and dissemination of results including design of experiments technology testing and integration of devices into field-deployable packages. All of these activities take place in a team that is highly collaborative and where creativity in finding solutions to various environmental concerns is our guiding principle.

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:

PhD in Analytical Chemistry Biomedical Engineering Chemical Engineering or related fields.

As part of the RA Program you must have received your PhD in Analytical Chemistry Biomedical Engineering Chemical Engineering or related fields within the last five years or you expect to receive the degree within the next six months.

For information oncertificates and diplomas issued abroad please see Degree equivalency

• Experience in biological and chemical sensors development and integration.
• Experience with electrochemical and spectroscopic measurements.
• Experience with methods and techniques related to preparing for conducting documenting and analyzing experiments/tests in chemical and biological sensors development.
• Experience in the full spectrum of research activities including experimental design data production analysis and quality assurance as reported through written documentation publications and/or presentations.
• Experience in micro/nano-fabrication is an asset.

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

English

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

• Advanced knowledge of analytical measuring principles and techniques.
• Strong ability to perform analyze document complex biological and chemical sensors fabrications and related experiments.
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary research environment and ability to set priorities and manage time to maximize productivity.
• Strong writing skills with the ability to write scientific reports either as scientific publications or similar.
• Strong presentation skills and ability to present scientific findings to research audiences at national or international conferences.

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

View all competency profiles

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 $83985 to $116641.

NOTE: Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidates 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 $83985.

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range ofcompetitive 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.

Anything is possible at the NRC named in 2026 one of Canadas Top Employers for Young People Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canadas Best Employers!

As Canadas 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 Canadas future and the world.

At the NRC youll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. Youll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly youll discover whats 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.

• In 2026 the NRC was chosen as one of Canadas Top Employers for Young People a National Capital Regions Top Employer and Forbes Canadas Best Employer.
• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRCs 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.