Postdoctoral Fellow

Description:

The National Research Council Canada (NRC) invites applications for the prestigious Luise and Gerhard Herzberg Postdoctoral Fellowship, dedicated to advancing excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This opportunity is designed to support early-career researchers who identify as women, offering a chance to conduct groundbreaking research within one of NRC’s 12 national research centres.

The selected fellow will engage in independent, high-caliber research aligned with NRC’s strategic priorities, collaborating with leading scientists and innovators to produce results of national and global significance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conceive, organize, and execute independent research of international caliber.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to advance NRC’s mission of scientific innovation and technological excellence.

• Contribute to peer-reviewed publications, scientific reports, and technical documentation.

• Develop innovative methodologies, technologies, or theoretical models relevant to NRC’s research domains.

• Support cross-centre initiatives, knowledge exchange, and mentorship for emerging researchers.

• Participate in project planning, data exploitation, and dissemination of results to both scientific and applied audiences.

• Adhere to safety and ethical research standards, ensuring compliance with NRC and national guidelines.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• A PhD obtained within the past three years (on or after July 1, 2023) or expected completion within six months of appointment.

• Demonstrated excellence in research, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and contributions to high-impact scientific or engineering studies.

• Experience working in collaborative, interdisciplinary research environments.

• Proven ability to conduct, analyze, and interpret complex experimental or theoretical data.

• Commitment to NRC’s core values: Integrity, Excellence, Respect, and Creativity.

Technical Competencies:

• Ability to plan and execute independent research projects.

• Expert knowledge in at least one STEM discipline relevant to NRC’s research centres.

• Advanced analytical, computational, or experimental capabilities.

• Strong communication skills for disseminating research outcomes.

Behavioral Competencies:

• Research Communication (Level 2) – effectively communicates complex concepts.

• Creative Thinking (Level 2) – innovates and explores new approaches.

• Results Orientation (Level 2) – consistently meets and exceeds performance goals.

• Teamwork (Level 1) – collaborates constructively across disciplines.

Application Requirements:

Applicants must include the following documents (preferably in PDF format, attached under “Other Attachments”):

1. Cover Letter specifying the NRC Research Centre most suited for the fellowship.

2. Detailed Resume / CV.

3. Description of past research (maximum 3 pages).

4. List of publications.

5. Original research proposal (maximum 3 pages, excluding references).

6. Two letters of reference.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary range: CA$83,985 – CA$116,641 annually (based on qualifications and experience).

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, pension, disability, and life insurance.

• Paid office closure during December holidays.

• Career development and mentorship opportunities within NRC.

• Relocation assistance may be provided in accordance with NRC directives.

About the National Research Council Canada (NRC):

As Canada’s leading research and technology organization, NRC is home to world-class scientists and engineers dedicated to advancing innovation and industrial competitiveness. Recognized among Canada’s Top Employers for Young People (2025) and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers, NRC provides an inclusive, collaborative, and inspiring environment where creativity and excellence thrive.

The Luise and Gerhard Herzberg Fellowship honors two of Canada’s most influential scientists, supporting emerging researchers who demonstrate potential for significant contributions in their field.