Astrophotonic Instrumentation Scientist (Research Associate)

National Research Council of Canada; Victoria; On-site; CAD 84,000 - 117,000; Full time

Job summary

National Research Council of Canada seeks an instrumentation scientist/engineer to lead the development of astronomical instrumentation using fiber optic and photonic chip technologies. The role covers integration, alignment, and characterization of photonic IFU systems, with emphasis on spectral measurements for Earth‑like exoplanets.

The candidate will contribute to the TESERACT CubeSat mission and collaborate with partner institutions, with travel to site locations as needed.

Qualifications

• Education as described: Ph.D. or Master’s in Engineering.
• Significant experience in two or more listed areas.
• Assets include prior work in astronomical instrumentation and photonic chips.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of instrumentation for photonic IFU architecture.
• Coordinate TESERACT project activities and collaborations.
• Perform on‑sky and laboratory characterization of instruments.

Skills

Laboratory optical setups

Optical component design

Optical alignment

Photonic device characterization

Fiber‑coupling experience

Data analysis

Education

Ph.D. in Science or Engineering

Master’s degree in an Engineering field

Tools

Zemax/OpticStudio

Code V

Job description

National Research Council of Canada seeks an instrumentation scientist/engineer to lead the development of astronomical instrumentation using fiber optic and photonic chip technologies. The role covers integration, alignment, and characterization of photonic IFU systems, with emphasis on spectral measurements for Earth‑like exoplanets.

The candidate will contribute to the TESERACT CubeSat mission and collaborate with partner institutions, with travel to site locations as needed.