Postdoctoral Fellow, Multi-Element Alloys Resistant to Hydrogen

The program

The NRC’s Postdoctoral Fellowship program offers PDFs access to unique world-class facilities and the opportunity to work alongside multi-disciplinary teams of expert researchers and technicians on projects of critical importance to Canada. PDFs will carry out research on innovative research projects, with opportunities for career development (publications and/or industry interaction).

PDFs will be offered appointments to the staff of the National Research Council on a term basis and will be offered salaries and benefits currently available to Research Officers. Salaries commensurate with experience are taxable and subject to other deductions. As a guide, the current annual PhD recruiting rate is $83,985. In addition PDFs will be allocated a travel fund to support their work.

Project title

Hydrogen, Materials and Manufacturing for Performance (H2Perform)

The role

This multidisciplinary research project aims at developing multi-element alloy (MEA) solutions for future hydrogen storage tanks, focusing on both material properties and manufacturability. The project involves (1) leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence approaches to conduct constraint-driven design on the basis of manufacturability and specified material properties, (2) identifying/developing lightweight MEAs with enhanced resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, (3) experimental validation of manufacturability using additive manufacturing (powder bed fusion and/or direct energy deposition) technologies, (4) quality inspection using advanced metallurgical characterization techniques (e.g., Micro-CT, XRD, SEM, EDS, EBSD, TEM) and (5) mechanical performance qualification (e.g., hardness, tensile, fatigue, high strain rate) in simulated operational conditions to assess suitability at cryogenic temperatures, susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement and degradation in corrosive environments. This work will lead to the potential for publications in materials/manufacturing journals as well as applications in projects supporting the Low-Emission Aviation Program (LEAP).

Education

A Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Computational Materials Science, or a closely related discipline is required with a strong focus on multi-element alloy (MEA) design, additive manufacturing, advanced characterization techniques and materials’ properties testing. 

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

Experience

• Proven experience in multi-element alloy (MEA) computational design using AI/ML approaches, and related finite element modelling would be an asset;
• Direct hands-on experience in metal additive manufacturing and using key microstructure characterization techniques (e.g., Micro-CT, XRD, SEM, EDS, EBSD, TEM);
• Proven experience in testing of materials’ properties with techniques including hardness, tensile and fatigue. Experience with high strain rate, corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement testing would be an asset;
• Experience in the publication of high caliber research papers, demonstrated by authorship of publications in high-impact peer-reviewed scientific journals and in the MEA domain;
• Experience delivering clear, impactful presentations and written materials — effectively translating complex concepts for diverse audiences to drive understanding and collaboration;
• Experience working both independently and collaboratively in multi-disciplinary and multi-partner research team(s); and
• Project management and organizational skills with experience in planning, organizing, managing, monitoring, and completing multiple projects and initiatives on time and within budget.

Language requirements

English

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

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

Who is eligible?

• Fellowships will be for two years contingent on satisfactory progress achieved during the first year.
• Candidates should have obtained a PhD (or equivalent) within the past three years (PhD received on or after July 1, 2023*) or expect to complete their PhD within 6 months of appointment.
• Fellows will work in a lab under the direct supervision of an NRC researcher.

* 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.

Application requirements

To be considered for the program please include the following in your application, 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
• Statement of Interest in the project (maximum one page in length)
• PhD Transcript - an electronic copy is sufficient, it does not have to be an official version.
• List of Publications

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

In addition, applicants who best meet the requirements of the position will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation at a later stage of the competition process.

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff the position at the AsRO level, which is an early-career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $116,641. This wide range accounts for varying degrees of expertise and impact, and growth within the role.

Salary determination will be based on a thorough evaluation of the successful candidate's prior experience. This evaluation will consider specific achievements, skills, and contributions that demonstrate the candidate's impact and expertise. As a guide, the average starting rate for new PhD graduates entering this role is $83,985. 

The NRC is committed to supporting career progression within the organization, providing access to the opportunities and resources needed for a pathway to a fulfilling career. NRC employees also 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 2025 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 leading research and technology 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

• In 2025, the NRC was chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, a National Capital Region Top Employer and Forbes Canada’s Best Employer.
• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• Fellowships are open to nationals of all countries, although 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.