McGill University

Research Assistant 2

Wong Building Part time

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POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of Professor Mathieu Brochu, the Department of Materials Engineering at McGill University is seeking a Research Assistant 2 to support the RDX research project, an NSERC‑funded program focused on the processing, microstructural evolution, and high‑temperature performance of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) nickel‑based alloys. The successful candidate will contribute to newly added research milestones by conducting independent research, coordinating advanced characterization efforts, and supporting data analysis and manuscript preparation related to precipitation-hardened alloys and thermal-mechanical degradation mechanisms.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The tasks of this position include but are not limited to the following:

  • Conducts independent research related to the microstructural evolution and degradation behavior of LPBF nickel‑based alloys under high‑temperature and cyclic loading conditions.

  • Oversees and assists with the planning, coordination, and execution of research activities associated with newly added project tasks, including coordination of outsourced work packages and integration of external results into the research program.

  • Oversees and conducts advanced microstructural characterization activities using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), including HRTEM, to investigate precipitation behavior, carbide formation, grain boundary decohesion, and stress‑assisted microstructural evolution.

  • Analyzes and interprets research data derived from SEM, TEM, diffraction analysis, and high‑temperature thermal cycling trials, linking observed microstructural changes to mechanical performance and degradation mechanisms.

  • Recommends and implements improvements to research methodologies and analytical approaches based on emerging results, supporting the refinement of experimental strategies and data interpretation frameworks.

  • Write and contribute to scholarly outputs, including the preparation, revision, and submission of scientific manuscripts related to LPBF nickel‑based alloys (including 4280 LCF and CM247).

  • Responsible for the quality, integrity, and reliability of assigned research data, analyses, and written contributions, ensuring alignment with project milestones and deliverables.

  • Provides technical guidance to students or junior research personnel by sharing expertise in research methodology, microscopy‑based analysis, and documentation practices.

  • Performs various administrative and coordination tasks related to the research project, including progress tracking, data compilation, and support for reporting and publication activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master’s degree in Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a closely related field.

  • Demonstrated at least one (1) year of research experience conducting independent laboratory-based research in nickel-based and/or aluminum alloys, laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of precipitation-hardened alloy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is an asset

  • Demonstrated experience characterizing precipitation‑hardened alloys produced by LPBF with complex or dual microstructures.

  • Strong expertise in TEM micrograph and diffraction pattern analysis, including HRTEM.

  • Proven ability to analyze and interpret experimental data and prepare clear, well-structured technical documentation and reports.

  • Ability to work collaboratively in an international, safety‑sensitive laboratory environment.

  • Experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to students or junior research staff is considered an asset.

Hiring Unit:

Department of Mining and Materials Engineering

Number of Positions:

1

Supervisor:

Professor Mathieu Brochu

Total Hours Per Week:

30 hours per week (part-time)

Hourly Salary:

$31.44

Location:

McGill Downtown Campus

« Connaissance du français et de l'anglais: L'Université McGill est une université de langue anglaise où les tâches quotidiennes peuvent nécessiter une communication verbale et écrite en anglais.  Le niveau d’anglais requis pour ce poste a été déterminé comme étant de niveau #4 (qualificatif) sur une échelle de 0-4.»

“Knowledge of French and English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level #4 (qualifier) on a scale of 0-4.”

In accordance with Canadian and Quebec law, the present offer is conditional upon your obtaining the appropriate work authorization from any or all of the following as applicable: Citizenship & Immigration Canada, Immigration Quebec and Human Resources & Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).

Hourly Salary:

$31.44

Hours per Week:

30 (Part time)

Location:

Wong Building

Supervisor:

Associate Professor

Position Start Date:

2026-05-07

Position End Date:

2026-08-31

Deadline to Apply:

2026-05-14

This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.