This position has an initial appointment of 18 months from the start date.
Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.
Position Summary
Applies extensive expert knowledge in welding engineering, advanced materials characterization, mechanical testing, fracture mechanics, and failure analysis, with a focus on hot forging simulation, structural integrity assessment, and microstructure–property relationships. The position requires a high level of performance in complex research activities for the successful execution of research projects through experimental design, data analysis, report writing, oral presentations, student mentorship, and collaboration with academic and industrial partners. The position reports to the Principal Investigator.
The Faculty of Engineering is one of North America’s top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.
1. Research Program Development and Execution
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Carry out specialized literature reviews on exploratory topics of interest as well as topics addressing current research projects.
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Develop research custom methodologies and testing protocols for the simulation of hot deformation, welding processes, and materials performance evaluation.
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Lead and support industrial and academic research projects from concept development through project completion.
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Analyze, interpret, and communicate research findings to stakeholders and collaborators.
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Contribute to the development of new research directions and funding opportunities.
2. Mechanical Testing
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Design and conduct mechanical testing programs using MTS and Instron servo-hydraulic systems, including tensile, compression, fatigue, fracture toughness, DIC, and temperature-controlled testing.
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Perform fracture mechanics on pipeline steels, weldments, and other engineering alloys.
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Develop and implement testing procedures in accordance with applicable industry standards and research objectives.
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Interpret and report test results.
3. Materials Characterization and Computational Modelling
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Conduct advanced microstructural characterization using SEM, FESEM, EBSD, EDS, XRD, hardness mapping, metallography, and related techniques.
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Investigate microstructure–property relationships, phase transformations, weldability, and heat-treatment effects in engineering materials.
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Utilize Thermo-Calc, DICTRA, and related computational tools for materials design, phase prediction, and process simulation.
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Apply computational modelling tools, including CFD, COMSOL, and SolidWorks, to support materials and process development.
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Integrate experimental and modelling results to support research objectives and technology development.
4. Project Management and Research Coordination
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Coordinate research activities, project schedules, milestones, deliverables, and resource allocation across multiple projects.
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Monitor project progress and ensure timely completion of research objectives and reporting requirements.
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Manage procurement of equipment, consumables, and laboratory supplies in accordance with
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University policies and sponsor requirements, and maintain a safe working environment.
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Maintain project documentation, technical records, and data management systems.
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Contribute to proposal development, budgeting activities, and sponsor communications.
5. Knowledge Dissemination and Stakeholder Engagement
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Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and research presentations.
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Present research findings to academic, industrial, and government stakeholders.
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Collaborate with industrial partners to address technical challenges and develop innovative engineering solutions.
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Support technology transfer and implementation of research outcomes.
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Contribute to the writing of grant applications, contract research, and new strategic research initiatives.
6. Laboratory Leadership, Mentorship, and Safety
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Mentor graduate students, research assistants, and junior researchers in experimental techniques, data analysis, and research methodologies.
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Provide technical guidance on safe laboratory equipment operation, testing procedures, and materials characterization techniques.
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Support laboratory operations, equipment maintenance, and facility management activities.
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Promote and ensure compliance with University health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures.
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Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and productive research environment that supports excellence in research and training.
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PhD in Welding Engineering.
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Minimum of 5 years of postdoctoral experience in Materials Engineering and/or industrial research experience in welding, structure-property relationships of materials, and fracture mechanics.
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Minimum 2 years of experience in mechanical testing, including tensile, compression, fatigue, fracture toughness, CTOD, DIC, and temperature-controlled testing using servo-hydraulic systems.
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Advanced knowledge of welding metallurgy, heat treatment, phase transformations, alloy design, and materials processing.
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Strong expertise in microstructural characterization techniques, including SEM/FESEM, EBSD, EDS, metallography, hardness mapping, and failure analysis.
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Proficiency in Thermo-Calc, DICTRA, and other computational tools for materials modelling and simulation.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills, with the ability to independently design and execute complex research programs.
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Proven project management, organizational, and multitasking abilities, with experience coordinating multiple research activities and stakeholders.
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Demonstrated ability to prepare high-quality technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, research proposals, and presentations.
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Effective interpersonal, mentoring, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work successfully with students, researchers, faculty members, and industrial partners.
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Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and a commitment to maintaining a safe, collaborative, inclusive and productive research environment.
Application Instructions
Click "Apply Now" to submit your cover letter and resume.
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package with an annual salary range of $63,465 - $79,339.
The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule E of the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.
The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.
This position requires that the incumbent be eligible to participate in government-funded research projects including active ability to receive federal research funds on behalf of the university. Individuals having an active affiliation with a Named Research Organization are ineligible to participate in government-funded research projects in Sensitive Technology Research Areas in Canada. Applicants must be able to meet all applicable research security requirements.
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered.
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms - physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
