Postdoctoral Fellow, Digital Composite Manufacturing

Postdoctoral Fellow, Digital Composite Manufacturing Apply for the Postdoctoral Fellow, Digital Composite Manufacturing role at the National Research Council Canada / Conseil national de recherches Canada. 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. City: Ottawa; Montréal Organizational Unit: Aerospace Classification: RO Tenure: Term Duration: 2 years Language Requirements: English Work arrangements: Full-time physical presence at the NRC work location identified. The Program The NRC’s Postdoctoral Fellowship program offers Postdoctoral Fellows (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 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 Bridging the Gap: Evolving Data‑Driven Digital Twins for Automated Composite Processing The Role Composite structures are commonly used in aerospace, but their broad adoption is limited by the lengthy certification process, which involves performing and documenting thousands of mechanical tests at various scales to demonstrate that the material will behave as intended despite normal variations in the material itself, its processing and its operational environment. The objective of this project is to develop a methodology to characterize and quantify how the micro‑structural morphology of the as‑laid Automated Fibre Placement parts evolve during the cure cycle to form the as‑cured structure and determine the impact on as‑tested performance. The project will leverage one‑of‑a‑kind in‑process imaging data to gain unparalleled insights into the laminate microstructure. The outcome of this work will be a predictive capability to quantify the impact of process‑related irregularities on performance knock‑down. This is the first step in the plan to quantify and explicitly link as‑designed to as‑flown composite structures. Education PhD in engineering or data science fields. Experience Proven experience in mechanical analysis and design of composite structures, including the use of finite element modelling and simulation tools. Experience with data‑driven design optimization would be an asset. Direct hands‑on experience in advanced composite manufacturing, particularly automated fibre placement (AFP), and proficiency in composite process monitoring techniques; experience in characterization and testing of composite materials. Proven experience with fusion, and analysis of multi‑source datasets (e.g., mechanical, process, and imaging data). Proficiency in data science techniques, large dataset handling, and Python‑based programming. Experience in the publication of high‑caliber research papers, demonstrated by authorship of publications in high‑impact peer‑reviewed scientific journals. 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). Project management and organizational skills with experience in planning, organizing, managing, monitoring, and completing multiple projects and initiatives. Language Requirements English. Condition of Employment 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 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 Three letters of recommendation (if selected at 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. Compensation The intent of this hiring action is to staff the position at the AsRO level, an early‑career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $116,641. Salary determination will be based on a thorough evaluation of the successful candidate's prior experience, specific achievements, skills, and contributions that demonstrate 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, but only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Contact: E‑mail: NRC.NRCHiring-EmbaucheCNRC.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca. Telephone: 450-645-4208. Closing Date: 19 December 2025 - 23:59 Eastern Time. For more information on career tools and other resources, check out Career tools and resources. If you are currently a term or continuing employee at NRC, please apply through the SuccessFactors Careers module from your NRC computer. #J-18808-Ljbffr