RESEARCH ASSISTANT (ENG-CHEM)

McMaster University; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

McMaster University’s Department of Chemical Engineering invites applications for a Research Assistant. The role focuses on modeling and parameter estimation of biological processes, running experiments, collecting data, and refining process models to support an optimization framework under the supervision of Dr.

Prashant Mhaskar. The incumbent will manage data workflows, conduct analyses with statistical tools, and contribute to research dissemination through reports and publications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Requires 2 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in modeling and parameter estimation of biological processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee data collection, entry, verification, and reporting.
• Use statistical software to analyze data and interpret results.
• Design and maintain databases for efficient data collection and reporting.
• Develop variations to models to better describe data and support optimization.

Skills

Data analysis

Experimental design

Modeling & optimization

Statistical software

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Tools

SigmaPlot

GraphPad

Microsoft Office

Job description

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm, 35 hours/week

Education Level

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study

Ranked among the top engineering schools in Canada and worldwide, the Faculty of Engineering. has a reputation for innovative programs, cutting-edge research, leading faculty, and aspiring students. Engineering faculty, staff and students at McMaster pursue research and learning in more than 22 research centres, institutes and networks whose interdisciplinary pursuits cross-departmental and faculty boundaries. Outside the University, we regularly collaborate on research projects with partners in universities, the government and more than 100 companies in Canada and abroad.

About the Department

As a leading Department of Chemical Engineering in Canada, our award-winning faculty and staff create a culture of excellence both in teaching and research. We have 22 faculty members with expertise in the following areas of research: bioengineering, polymer materials and manufacturing, process systems engineering, and water-energy technologies. These areas are closely linked to our undergraduate and graduate programs. The department mentors over 100 graduates and 300 undergraduate students.

About the Position

The Department of Chemical Engineering is welcoming applications for the position of Research AssistantThe successful incumbent must demonstrate prior experience in modeling and parameter estimation of biological processes. The work will also involve running experiments, collecting data, and coming up with variations to the process model to best describe the data, and to use it to develop an optimization framework.

This position will report to Dr. Prashant Mhaskar at the Department of Chemical Engineering.

Job Summary

Responsible for organizing and administering one or more research projects within required deadlines under the direction of a Principal Investigator or project leader.

Purpose & Key Functions

• Oversee the collection, entry, verification, management, analysis, and reporting of data.
• Use statistical software to analyze data and interpret results.
• Design and maintain databases, data collection forms, error checking methods and related programs for efficient collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Modify and reconfigure databases to ensure the optimal storage of data and minimize data entry complexities.
• Troubleshoot moderately complex computer problems.
• Write data management and operations documentation for the project.
• Liaise between the project centre and remote project sites and personnel.
• Conduct structured project participant interviews.
• Ensure that the relevant research methodology is applied and all research material is handled in accordance with established protocols, policies, and procedures.
• Participate in the development of promotional strategies and related materials to encourage participation and support for research projects.
• Develop presentations and present information and training sessions to project personnel and project participants.
• Keep project participants informed of project progress through regular reports and newsletters.
• Gather and compile information and data required for the preparation of scientific papers, abstracts, and graphs.
• Conduct literature searches.
• Oversee the extraction and compilation of data required for reports and disseminate data to research groups and collaborating partners.
• Implement and maintain the research project budget. Create financial projections and make adjustments to the research project budget throughout the fiscal year.
• Exercise appropriate budget controls, monitor, and reconcile accounts.
• Write a variety of letters and memos.
• Participate in research project meetings and propose recommendations for procedure modifications and development in the areas of data management, quality control, and assurance.
• Write, update, and archive data management and quality assurance conventions.
• Respond to inquiries received from project personnel regarding relevant project issues and procedures.

Supervision

• No formal supervision of others is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study.
• Requires 2 years of relevant experience.

Assets

• Experience working in a post-secondary environment is considered an asset.
• A Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering is considered a strong asset.

Additional Information

This position will be responsible for the following duties, including but not limited to:

• Running experiments and collecting data
• Building and maintaining models
• Running an optimization problem
• Creating presentations
• Writing manuscripts

The successful candidate must have and/or demonstrate:

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) and presentation skills
• Resourcefulness and strong organizational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships at work
• Flexibility and adaptability when meeting deadlines with numerous interruptions
• Ability to respond creatively to resolve issues and maintain workflow
• Ability to plan and perform experiments using standard techniques
• High attention to detail while producing thorough and accurate work

The successful candidate must also have prior experience in the following areas:

• Working with data collection software, such as SigmaPlot and GraphPad
• Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook

Flexibility is required to work occasional evenings, weekends and evening hours to meet the demands of the position.

Employment Equity Statement

McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the "Dish With One Spoon" wampum agreement.

The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.

The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey through the online application submission process. The Survey questionnaire requests voluntary self-identification in relation to equity-seeking groups that have historically faced and continue to face barriers in employment. Please refer to the Applicant Diversity Survey - Statement of Collection for additional information.

Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:

At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in-person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to [e-mail] or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.

AI Statement

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