Postdoctoral Fellowship, Adaptive Optics Scientist

OverviewPostdoctoral Fellowship, Adaptive Optics Scientist at National Research Council Canada / Conseil national de recherches Canada (NRC).City: VictoriaOrganizational Unit: Herzberg Astronomy and AstrophysicsClassification: ROTenure: TermDuration: 2 yearsLanguage Requirements: EnglishWork 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.Project titleNon-Linear Wavefront SensingThe roleA confluence of technological milestones in detector, computation and machine learning development, both globally and within the NRC, makes high-speed non-linear wavefront sensing for Astronomy an imminent technological milestone. We are seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher to lead the design, build and test of a non-linear wavefront sensor from the ground up with the objective of demonstrating fully non-linear real-time control on-sky using the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory’s 1.2m telescope.The successful candidate will conduct research toward enabling astrophysical observations which are not yet possible, and increasing the scientific productivity of ground-based optical telescopes. The candidate will leverage HAA’s real time control, machine learning, and wavefront sensing expertise, and that of collaborators at Canadian Universities. Taking advantage of HAA’s unique local on-sky Adaptive Optics capabilities, the candidate will be encouraged to grow as an instrument scientist by working to identify and find solutions to key technological hurdles in AO science, while gaining experience in the full instrument development process from conceptual design through integration at the observatory.NRC-Herzberg offers a collaborative environment with strong expertise in astronomy research, instrumentation design, engineering, data science and observatory support. Our fellowships mentor researchers who will become leaders in ambitious cutting-edge astronomy research. We support work-life balance and accommodation needs as required.EducationPhD in Physics and Astronomy, Astrophysics or Engineering in a field related to the position.For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency.ExperienceCandidates should meet one or more of the following experience asset criteria:Experience working with adaptive optics systems (laboratory or on-sky).Experience with simulation tools used to model adaptive optics systems (e.g., HCIpy, OOPAO, OOMAO).Experience with optical design tools.Significant programming experience. Preferred: Python or Matlab; IDL, C/C++ or other languages also acceptable.Language requirementsEnglishCompetenciesResearch - Creative thinking (Level 2)Research - Initiative (Level 1)Research - Results orientation (Level 1)Research - Self-knowing and self-development (Level 1)Research - Teamwork (Level 1)Condition of employmentReliability 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 requirementsTo be considered for the program please include the following in your application. Attach the required documents as per the list below when submitting your application. Failure to do so will result in your application being excluded.ResumeResearch Statement (maximum three pages in length)PhD Transcript – an electronic copy is sufficient, it does not have to be an official version.List of PublicationsWhen submitting your application, you can include the required documents in any attachment field such as “Second language evaluation results” or “Other attachments.” Applicants who best meet the requirements will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation at a later stage.CompensationThe position is at the AsRO level, an early-career level with a salary range of $83,985 to $116,641. Salary will be determined based on experience and qualifications. The NRC provides competitive benefits including a pension plan, health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance.About the Herzberg Astronomy And Astrophysics Research CentreWe are Canada’s gateway to the stars. We operate Canada’s largest observatories and engage in leading astronomy initiatives. We support data management, analysis via the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre, and instrument development with industrial partners.Why work with usThe Herzberg Centre is committed to an inclusive environment. We offer opportunities across optical and radio astronomy, instrumentation and data science.NotesIn 2025, NRC was named one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People and in the National Capital Region, and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers.Relocation assistance will be determined per NRC directives.Fellowships are open to nationals of all countries, with preference to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Include citizenship information in your application.We thank all applicants; only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.Closing Date: 19 December 2025 - 23:59 Eastern TimeLocationVictoria, British Columbia, Canada #J-18808-Ljbffr