Research Associate, Quantum Metrology

National Research Council Canada / Conseil national de recherches Canada; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 84,000 - 117,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada's largest research and technology organization, is seeking a Research Associate to join the Thermometry and Radiometry Team in the Metrology Research Centre in Ottawa.

You will design and run experiments in quantum optics and metrology, analyze data, and report results, contributing to quantum sensing capabilities and precision measurements using atomic and molecular systems.

Qualifications

• 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.
• PhD or Masters within the last five years or expected within the next six months.

Responsibilities

• Design, participate in, and execute experiments in quantum optics, quantum networks, and atomic and molecular optical physics;
• Work in metrology labs with other research and technical team members to support research activities;
• Acquire and analyse data;
• Report and disseminate results.

Skills

Lab measurement devices

Quantum optics

Atomic and molecular physics

Data analysis

Programming for data acquisition

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

PhD in electrical engineering, optics, physics, engineering physics or closely related field

Master’s degree in engineering physics, engineering or physics with relevant experience

Tools

Laboratory vacuum systems

Optical components and systems

Laboratory test equipment

Job description

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: Ottawa

Organizational Unit: Metrology Research Centre

Classification: RO

Tenure: Term

Duration: 18 months

Language Requirements: English

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

Help bring research to life and drive your career forward with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada's largest research and technology organization.

We are looking for a Research Associate (RA), to join our Thermometry and Radiometry Team within the Metrology Research Centre. The Metrology Research Centre is committed to fostering innovation through high‑precision measurement science and advancements in metrology. The RA would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

The RA will join a team of experts performing original research and development, advancing the field of metrology in quantum network metrology and quantum sensing.

Using your understanding of physical principles and your hands‑on skills, you will work with our team to develop, research and establish capabilities in quantum sensing and metrology. You will contribute to one or more of the following projects: sensing with atomic and molecular optical systems; precision timimg and synchronization of quantum network nodes; ultra‑low temperature thermometry.

Working with other members of the team, The RA will:

• Design, participate in, and execute experiments in quantum optics, quantum networks, and atomic and molecular optical physics;
• Work in metrology labs with other research and technical team members to support research activities;
• Acquire and analyse data;
• Report and disseminate results.

Screening criteria

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 or Masters within the last five years or you expect to receive the degree within the next six months.

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency.

Experience

• Hands‑on experience in a scientific lab setting and using a variety of laboratory test equipment;
• Experience working with quantum optics and/or atomic and molecular physics;
• Experience working with optical components and systems;
• Experience working with vacuum systems;
• Experience in general programming and computer interfacing and control of instruments by computer;
• Experience collecting and analysing data; and dissemination of results.

Experience in the following are assets

• Python;
• Metrology;
• Laser cooling and atom trapping
• Atomic clocks
• Operating and performing experiments with dilution refrigerators

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

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

Language requirements

English. Information on language requirements and self‑assessment tests.

Assessment criteria

Technical competencies

• Solid knowledge of laboratory measurement devices;
• Extensive knowledge of physical principles;
• Advanced knowledge of quantum optics and/or atomic and molecular physics;
• Solid experience with laboratory vacuum systems;
• Solid knowledge of programming languages for computer control of experimental apparatus and data acquisition;
• Solid knowledge of programming languages and techniques for data analysis;
• 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.

Behavioural competencies

• 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.

View all competency profiles.

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff through the Research Associate (RA) Program at the RCO-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 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.

• In 2026, the NRC was chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, a National Capital Region’s Top Employer and Forbes Canada’s Best Employer.
• 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.

Closing Date: 24 September 2026 - 23:59 Eastern Time