Research Assistant
Calgary, AB
Corporate Development, Applied Research & International – Applied Research & Innovation Services /
AUPE Casual/ Hourly /
On-site
SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. ARIS is on the leading edge of novel technology development. As one of Canada’s top applied-research colleges, SAIT has 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and full-time research staff who are solely dedicated to providing the services organizations need to take their products from concept to prototype.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join the CIRAMM (Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials) team. In this role, you will be responsible for assisting project managers with planning and coordinating activities related to ongoing and upcoming applied research projects. Reporting to the research chair, you will support project managers to ensure project deliverables are met on time, within budget, and in alignment with industry and academic standards.
This position requires a passion for innovation and the ability to adapt to a fast-paced research environment.
The Role
- Support Project Activities
- Assist project managers to coordinate and manage applied research projects both internally within CIRAMM and externally with industry partners.
- Support project managers with developing and maintaining comprehensive project schedules, including resource planning, materials estimates, and manpower requirements, to meet project milestones effectively.
- Perform literature reviews to support guidelines for low-melting-point metallic alloys, referencing ASTM and ISO standards.
- Laboratory Support and Experimentation
- Prepare metallurgical samples: cutting, mounting, polishing for microscopy and analysis.
- Perform materials characterization using SEM, EDS, XRD, and mechanical testing.
- Assist in corrosion testing and mechanical property evaluation following ASTM standards.
- Support alloy synthesis and ThermoCalc modeling.
- Aid ultrasonic-assisted potting and electroless deposition for metal-polymer integration.
- Conduct leak tests, prototype fabrication, scale-up, and lab-scale performance evaluation.
- Assist in the preparation and execution of laboratory tests and procedures, ensuring compliance with established safety and quality standards.
- Maintain and repair laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal functionality to support research activities.
- Monitor and manage inventory of materials, supplies, and laboratory consumables to prevent disruptions in research activities.
- Documentation and Reporting
- Document project phases meticulously, including experimental designs, methodologies, and outcomes, to ensure accurate project records.
- Create detailed project summary reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Write and edit scientific publications and reports.
- Other Responsibilities
- Support CIRAMM’s strategic objectives by performing additional duties as required, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic research environment.
Qualifications
- Post-secondary degree with relevant research experience.
- Preferred
- Recent graduate in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
- Skills Required
- In-depth knowledge of corrosion-resistant, low-melting-point alloys and quality control practices.
- Familiarity with materials characterization techniques (SEM, EDS, XRD), corrosion testing, and mechanical evaluation is preferred.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in experimental work and data interpretation.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
- Excellent communication skills for documentation and teamwork.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental procedures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) for data compilation and report preparation.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software such as JMP, SPSS, MATLAB, Origin, or Minitab is an asset.
- Willingness to engage in hands-on testing and collaborative research work.
- Demonstrated understanding of project management concepts.
Job Classification: Laboratory Technician II
Salary Range: $21.93- $27.58
Posting End Date: Aug 14, 2025
About SAIT
SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.
Building on our 100+ year history, we’re looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.
Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is essential to achieving SAIT’s vision to be a global leader in applied education. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, people from gender and sexually diverse communities, and/or people with intersectional identities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.
At SAIT, we understand that experience comes in many forms. We’re dedicated to adding diverse perspectives to SAIT - so if your experience is close to what we’re looking for, please consider applying.
SAIT is committed to supporting persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. We will work with applicants to provide accommodations upon request to the Talent Advisor.
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