McGill University

Research Associate

Macdonald Eng. Bldg. Part time

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The Department of Mechanical Engineering is looking for a Research Associate to contribute to the Development of a Folded Composite Core for High‑Frequency Radio Mirrors research project, with a focus on the analysis and design of curved‑crease origami structures for fold‑core aerospace antennas under the supervision of Professor Damiano Pasini.

Responsabilities:

  • Develop and formalize the folding mathematics and kinematics underlying curved-crease origami, with particular emphasis on the lens-box unit recently introduced by the PI’s research group

  • Analyze and determine lock states and load-bearing capacities of curved-crease origami structures

  • Fabricate, fold, and perform mechanical testing of origami patterns in accordance with newly developed concepts and methodologies presented in recent publications from the Professor’s group

  • Contribute to the analysis and design of curved-crease origami structures to advance deployable fold core aerospace antenna technologies

  • Plan and oversee the work of research personnel, verify deliverables, and participate in the training and mentorship of Research Assistants


Qualifications:

  • PhD in mechanics and kinematics of curved‑crease origami, including the development and analysis of lockable and load‑bearing configurations

  • At least five (5) years of relevant research experience.

  • Extensive hands‑on experience in the fabrication of curved‑crease origami prototypes with high geometric accuracy and repeatability

  • Proficiency in folding mathematics, including geometric modeling of curved, developable, and architected surfaces

  • Solid understanding of mechanical testing methodologies for origami‑based structures, including the characterization of stiffness, stability, and load‑bearing performance

  • Demonstrated experience with computational tools for origami modeling and simulation, as well as software used in the computational mechanics of architected and deployable structures


Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

Hourly Salary:

$33.96

Hours per Week:

25 (Part time)

Location:

Macdonald Eng. Bldg.

Supervisor:

Professor

Position Start Date:

2026-04-28

Position End Date:

2026-07-31

Deadline to Apply:

2026-05-05

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.