Research Associate, Quantum Metrology

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

Job summary

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is seeking a Research Associate for the Metrology Research Centre in Ottawa. The role requires a PhD in electrical engineering, optics, physics, or engineering physics, with potential Master’s consideration. The position is full-time on-site for 2 years, with a background check and reliability status.

Salary ranges from $83,985 to $116,641 CAD per year. This early-career opportunity emphasizes hands-on lab work, data analysis, and collaboration with

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in a scientific lab setting and using laboratory test equipment.
• Experience with quantum optics, nonlinear optics and/or atomic and molecular physics.
• Experience working with optical components and systems.
• Experience collecting and analysing data and disseminating results.
• Assets: Python programming, metrology, infrared/optical spectroscopy.

Skills

Lab equipment

Data analysis

Programming

Experimental design

Written communication

Oral communication

Teamwork

Education

PhD in physics/engineering

Master's in engineering/physics

Tools

Python

Infrared spectroscopy

Optical spectroscopy

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.

OrganizationalUnit: Metrology Research Centre

Classification: RO

Duration: 2 years

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.

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 doctoral degree in electrical engineering, optics, physics, engineering physics or a closely related field.
A Master’s degree in engineering physics, engineering (electrical, mechanical, other), or in physics, along with relevant experience may also be considered.

As part of the RA Program you must have received your PhD within the last five years or you expect to receive the degree within the next six months.

• Hands‑on experience in a scientific lab setting and using a variety of laboratory test equipment;
• Experience working with quantum optics, nonlinear optics and/or atomic and molecular physics;
• Experience working with optical components and systems;
• Experience collecting and analysing data; and dissemination of results.

Experience in the following are assets:

• Python or other programming experience;
• Metrology;
• Infrared spectroscopy
• Optical spectroscopy

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:

• Solid knowledge of laboratory measurement devices;
• Extensive knowledge of physical principles;
• Solid knowledge of programming languages for experimental control, data acquisition and data analysis;
• Ability to identify problems related to experimental techniques or approaches and/or to propose or develop solutions;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Demonstrated ability to conduct experimental research in relevant areas; and
• Ability to write high quality research articles, technical reports, and to communicate research findings to partners and clients.
• Research - Creative thinking (Level 3)
• Research - Results orientation (Level 2)
• Research - Teamwork (Level 2)
• Research - Networking (Level 2)
• Research - Communication (Level 2)

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Research ;

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

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff this position at theRCO-2/AsRO level, which is an early-career level position with a salary range of $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 ofcompetitive 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 f ostries 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

Application Requirements:

To be considered for the Research Associate program please note that you will need to attach the required documents as per the list below when submitting your application. Failure to do so will result in your application being excluded.

• Resume
• Transcript
• In addition, applicants who best meet the requirements of the position may be asked to provide references at a later stage of the competition process.

When submitting your application, you can include the required documents in any attachment field such as «Second language evaluation results» or «Other attachments».

• 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 (25596) to:

Closing Date: 7 September 2026 - 23:59 Eastern

*If you are currently a term or continuing employee at NRC, please apply through the SuccessFactors Careersmodule from your NRC computer.