Job Description

DescriptionThis position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).This position has a term length of one year plus a day and offers a .Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.Working at the University of AlbertaThe University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Mxc3xa9tis, 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. .Working for the Department of Chemical & Material EngineeringThe Department of Chemical & Material Engineering at the University of Alberta recognizes that our people are and will continue to be our greatest strength. We celebrate creativity, diversity, perseverance, and a cooperative spirit. The Department has excellent teaching and research. Exceeding 500 Undergraduate students, 300+ Graduate students and 50 faculty members, including many award-winning researchers and teachers, and with world-class facilities and diverse research and education programs, we are one of the top Chemical and Materials departments in Canada.Position SummaryThis is a support position in polyolefin reaction engineering. It requires the Research Assistant to conduct olefin polymerizations and perform polyolefin characterizations under the guidance of the supervisor.Duties

• Conduct Olefin Polymerization Runs - Operate and maintain stainless steel autoclaves to perform olefin polymerization experiments under controlled conditions.
• Ensure Safety and Compliance - Adhere to safety protocols and standard operating procedures while handling polymerization equipment, chemicals, and analytical instruments.
• Characterize Polyolefins - Perform analytical techniques such as GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography), TREF (Temperature Rising Elution Fractionation), CEF (Crystallization Elution Fractionation), CFC (Crystallization Fractionation Chromatography), DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry), and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) to evaluate polyolefin properties.
• Optimize Polymerization Conditions - Adjust reaction parameters, including temperature, pressure, and catalyst concentration, to achieve targeted polyolefin characteristics.
• Interpret and Analyze Data - Process and analyze experimental results under the guidance of the supervisor to assess molecular weight distribution, crystallinity, composition distribution, and other critical polymer properties.
• Utilize Mathematical Models - Apply computational and mathematical modeling techniques to describe and predict olefin polymerization kinetics, mechanisms, and performance trends.
• Maintain Laboratory Equipment - Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of autoclaves and analytical instruments to guarantee accuracy and reliability.\
• Document and Report Findings - Maintain detailed laboratory records, document experimental procedures, and prepare technical reports, research papers, presentations, and annual progress reports under the guidance of the supervisor.

Qualifications

• A minimum of a B.Sc. degree in Chemical Engineering is required, with a preference for candidates holding an M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering.
• At least 2 years of experience conducting olefin polymerization experiments and performing polyolefin characterizations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality technical reports, research papers, and presentations.
• Proficiency in using university-specific software applications.

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.The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, Mxc3xa9tis 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.Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight March 25, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.

University of Alberta