Research Associate - Plaskett Fellowship

Automotive and Surface Transportation; Victoria; On-site; CAD 84,000 - 117,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits (pension, health)

Job summary

National Research Council Canada (NRC) in Victoria, BC, invites applications for a two-year research fellowship in astronomy/astrophysics. The role requires a PhD awarded since 2022 or soon after, with a track record in astronomical data analysis and instrumentation. Applicants should show leadership, collaboration, and a strong publication record.

Salary ranges from CAD 83,985 to CAD 116,641, with a competitive benefits package and relocation consideration. Closing date: 2 November 2026.

Qualifications

• Five years or less experience in astronomical or astrophysical research (or a related field) beyond the Ph.D. at the time of taking up the fellowship.
• Experience in obtaining, reducing, analysing, and/or aiding in the interpretation of astronomical data from ground- and/or space-based observatories or from astronomical data archives, and/or the design and development of astronomical instrumentation.
• Experience in the publication of high calibre astronomical research papers in the refereed scientific literature.

Skills

Astronomical data analysis

Instrumentation development

Scientific publication

Project leadership

Mentoring

Education

PhD in astronomy/astrophysics

Tools

Data reduction software

Instrumentation design software

Job description

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Priority may be given to the following designated employment equity groups: women, Indigenous Peoples* (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), persons with disabilities and racialized persons*.

* The Employment Equity Act, which is under review, uses the terminology Aboriginal peoples and visible minorities.

Candidates are asked to self-declare when applying to this hiring process.

City: Victoria

OrganizationalUnit: Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics

Classification: RO

Duration: 2 years (with option to extend 1 year)

Work arrangements: Due to the nature of the work and operational requirements, this position will require full-time physical presence at the NRC work location identified.
At the NRC, we recognize that Indigenous candidates may have important connections to their communities and you may be eligible for an exception to this work arrangement. Alternative work arrangements may also be considered to accommodate candidates as required. To learn more about these options, please contact the NRC Hiring team using the contact information below.

The role

Screening criteria

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:

Education

A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics or a related field is required. Candidates should have obtained a PhD within the past five years (PhD received on or after September 30, 2022) or expect to complete their PhD within 6 months of appointment. * Exceptions may be considered to recognize personal or family related leave. Please connect with us using the contact information below to discuss in more detail. For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

• Five years or less experience in astronomical or astrophysical research (or a related field) beyond the Ph.D. at the time of taking up the fellowship.
• Experience in obtaining, reducing, analysing, and/or aiding in the interpretation of astronomical data from ground- and/or space-based observatories or from astronomical data archives, and/or the design and development of astronomical instrumentation.
• Experience in the publication of high calibre astronomical research papers in the refereed scientific literature.

The following will be considered assets in assessing the candidate:

• Evidence of project leadership, grants or awards;
• Experience in collaborations, including with industry or engineering of instrumentation projects;
• Experience with advanced computing platforms, systems or techniques;
• Experience in mentoring or supervision.

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

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

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

• Expert knowledge of astronomical research, in one or more areas of forefront research.
• Ability to conceive, organize, conduct and publish independent astrophysical research of international calibre.
• Advanced knowledge of astronomical techniques (such as observing, data reduction and analysis, instrumentation and software development, modelling and simulations) involving instrumentation for or astronomical datasets from ground- or space-based telescopes.
• Engagement with the wider astronomical community via collaborations, working groups and/or research teams.
• Research areas and/or development of new technologies fundamental or complementary to the next generation of astronomical facilities and/or engagement in the research areas of extrasolar planets, the Dark Universe, time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy.
• Research - Communication (Level 2)
• Research - Creative thinking (Level 3)
• Research - Results orientation (Level 1)
• Research - Teamwork (Level 2)
• Research - Networking (Level 2)

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profiles: Research ; NRC-Wide

Salary range as of July 20th 2025: $83,985 to $116,641.

NOTE: Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidate’s 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 $83,985.

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive 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.

Discover the possible

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

As Canada’s 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 Canada’s future and the world.

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

Notes

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's 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.

Please direct your questions, with therequisition number (26131) to:

Closing Date: 2 November 2026- 23:59 Eastern Time