Research Associate

McGill University; Victoria; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Victoria seeks a Research Associate in Atmospheric Physics. This role involves examining aerosol–cloud interactions, utilizing advanced laser-based technologies, and mentoring students. Required qualifications include a PhD and significant experience with optics, data analysis, and AI algorithms. The position offers a full-time schedule with a salary of $38.43 per hour at Burnside Hall. The institution promotes equity and diversity, welcoming diverse applicants.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences or Physics is essential.
• Extensive experience in optics, including lasers and aerosol sizers.
• Strong background in climate modeling, data analysis, or remote sensing.

Responsibilities

• Perform physicochemical experiments related to aerosol-cloud processes.
• Analyze data observation and modeling developed at McGill.
• Train students on aerosol analysis and ice analysis.

Skills

Experience with laser systems

AI algorithm development

Data analysis

Mentoring junior researchers

Strong communication of scientific concepts

Familiarity with environmental policy

Education

PhD in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences or Physics

Tools

GC-MS

ICP-MS

Numerical modeling tools (e.g., WRF, CESM)

Programming languages (Python, MATLAB, Fortran)

Job description

Overview

Hiring Unit: Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

Position Summary: The Research Associate will work in Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry within the Department of Chemistry and/or the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences. The project will examine aerosol–cloud interactions related to climate change, with a focus on aerosol optical properties and their three‑ and four‑dimensional physico‑chemical characteristics. The role will also involve developing technologies that integrate laser‑based optical systems with mass spectrometry for advanced aerosol characterization.

Responsibilities

• Perform physicochemical experiments related to aerosol-cloud processes
• Analysis of data observation and modelling developed at McGill
• Candidates must demonstrate experience in developing AI algorithms to significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of operational processes
• Using multiple laser equipment for ice nucleation
• Help train students on aerosol analysis and ice analysis

Qualifications

• Experience and Education:
• PhD degree in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences or Physics (required).
• Extensive experience and knowledge in optics, including lasers and aerosol sizers.
• Extensive experience with GC–MS and ICP–MS.
• Experience mentoring junior researchers, including undergraduate and graduate students.
• Experience writing for international peer‑reviewed journals and a strong publication record.
• Background spanning both chemistry and physics.
• Strong background in climate modeling, data analysis, or remote sensing.
• Experience with numerical modeling tools (e.g., WRF, CESM) and programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or Fortran.
• Familiarity with observational techniques and instrumentation for atmospheric or oceanic measurements.
• Knowledge of environmental policy implications and climate change impacts.
• Fully trained on health and safety regulations in the lab.

Other Qualifying Skills and Abilities

• Strong ability to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Strong ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively
• Attentive to details

Additional Details

• Before applying, you must be authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in Quebec at the campus where the position is based.
• McGill University is an English-language university, requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.
• Hourly Salary: 38.43
• Hours per Week: 35 (Full time)
• Location: Burnside Hall
• Supervisor: Professor
• Position Start Date: 2026-01-28
• Position End Date: 2027-02-16
• Deadline to Apply: 2026-02-05
• Eligibility: This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.

Equity and Diversity: McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is committed to equity and diversity. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as all qualified candidates who can contribute to a diverse community. McGill encourages designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [e-mail].