Graduate Student CO-OP – AI Research and Engineering

Alexander College; Burnaby; Hybrid; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An academic institution in Vancouver is seeking a Graduate Student CO-OP in AI Research and Engineering. You'll collaborate with researchers to develop algorithms and data analytics solutions while gaining hands-on experience. The position requires enrollment in a Master's or PhD program, with strong programming skills and knowledge in AI and machine learning. This full-time, temporary role offers a salary range of $4,000 – $5,500 per month.

Benefits

Hands-on experience with real-world projects

Opportunities for collaboration in a diverse environment

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a research track Master’s or PhD program.
• Previous CO-OP experience, academic research projects, or internships preferred.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate on AI, machine learning, and data analytics projects.
• Develop algorithms and models for technical challenges.
• Assist in preparing research findings for publication.

Skills

Programming in Python

Algorithm design

Machine learning

Data analytics tools

Technical writing

Fluency in English

Education

Currently enrolled in a Master's or PhD program in Computer Science or related field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

R

Scikit-learn

Job description

Overview

Position Overview
As a Graduate Student CO-OP – AI Research and Engineering, you will collaborate with researchers and engineers to develop and implement advanced algorithms, data analytics solutions, and AI models. This position offers an excellent opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real-world problems, contribute to research papers, and gain hands-on experience in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment.

Reporting Relationship

Reporting Relationship
VP of Operations and Director of Academic Innovation and Research Infrastructure

Employment Type

Employment Type
Full-Time, Temporary (4-8 Month Contract), starting January 2026, with the possibility of extension.

Salary Range

Salary Range
$4,000 – $5,500 per month

Work Week

Work Week
The Employee will work during regular business hours, Monday to Friday for 37.5 hours per week (not including a 30-minute unpaid meal break per day). Flexibility will be required.

Location

Location
The Burnaby and Vancouver Campus. Flexibility to travel between and work at both campuses will be required.

Who We Are

Who We Are
Alexander College, in partnership with the Alexander Innovation Centre, is at the forefront of fostering technological innovation and research excellence. Located in Vancouver, BC, we focus on creating a dynamic environment for graduate students to contribute to cutting-edge research in AI, machine learning, data analytics, and advanced engineering. Through this CO-OP opportunity, students will gain valuable experience working on real-world projects that bridge the gap between academia and industry.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a research track Master’s or PhD program in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or related fields at a recognized institution (e.g., UBC, SFU, UVic).
• Previous CO-OP experience, academic research projects, or internships in a related field is preferred.

Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in programming (Python, C++, Java, etc.).
• Solid understanding of algorithm design and data structures.
• Experience with AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools and platforms (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, etc.).
• Familiarity with computer hardware, cloud computing, APIs, and AI systems is a plus.
• Experience in academic research and a strong ability to analyze complex problems and data.
• Proven ability to write and communicate complex ideas clearly through technical documentation and research papers.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); additional languages are an asset.

Specific Responsibilities

• Research and Development
• Engage in research projects related to AI, machine learning, and data analytics.
• Develop and implement innovative algorithms and models to address complex technical challenges.
• Assist in advancing AI and machine learning methodologies for use in both hardware and software platforms.

• Programming and Software Development
• Write clean, optimized code in languages such as Python, R, C/C++, or Java.
• Apply advanced data structures and algorithm design techniques to solve computational problems.
• Experiment with AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools and platforms (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, Keras, Apache Spark, etc.).
• Develop, test, and deploy APIs and tools supporting AI-driven applications and data analysis.

• Data Analytics and AI Systems
• Use AI techniques to analyze large-scale datasets and extract actionable insights.
• Enhance and support existing data analytics platforms, ensuring they meet the needs of internal teams and clients.
• Work on design, integration and testing for smart systems such as commercial robotics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design AI solutions tailored to specific research challenges.

• Research Writing and Documentation
• Contribute to academic papers, technical reports, and documentation for internal and external publications.
• Document methodologies, code, and research processes for reproducibility and future work.
• Contribute to funding search and applications.
• Contribute to curriculum development.
• Assist in preparing research findings for publication in journals or presentation at conferences.

• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Work closely with engineers, researchers, and faculty members from Alexander College, AIC and external partners.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions, team meetings, and technical discussions to drive projects forward.

How to Apply

How to Apply
If you are interested in the above position and you would like to apply, please e-mail your cover letter, resume, and personal statement and research proposal with the e-mail title being "[Your full-name]_Graduate Student CO-OP 2026" to [e-mail].

Please note that applications without a cover letter will not be accepted. In your cover letter, be sure to tell us what you would bring to the team and why you’d be perfect for this role. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

No phone calls please.

Alexander College and the Alexander Innovation Centre are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students.

Alexander College values the diversity of its community and is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable learning and working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including those from groups that have been historically underrepresented in post-secondary education, and we strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples. Please note that Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.