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Postdoc Research Associate Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Professeur a temps partiel postdoctoral/ Postdoctoral Part-Time Professor Date Posted (YYYY/MM/DD ... research and teaching excellence. While all qualified persons are invited to apply, we welcome ...

Professeur a temps partiel postdoctoral/ Postdoctoral Part-Time Professor Date Posted (YYYY/MM/DD ... research and teaching excellence. While all qualified persons are invited to apply, we welcome ...

Postdoc Research Associate information

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a Postdoc Research Associate within a research institution?

As a Postdoc Research Associate, you will frequently collaborate with principal investigators, graduate students, and fellow postdocs both within your department and across interdisciplinary teams. These collaborations often involve co-authoring research papers, designing experiments, and sharing specialized expertise or equipment. Many institutions also encourage postdocs to participate in seminars, lab meetings, and grant-writing sessions, which foster networking and skill development. Such teamwork not only enriches your research but also broadens your professional network, which can be crucial for future career advancement.

What is the difference between Postdoc Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoc Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsUniversities, research centers, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and government researchAcademia, industry, biotech, pharma
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Postdoc Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in experience level and career stage. Postdoc Research Associates are typically early-career researchers with a Ph.D. working on specific projects, often aiming for academic careers. Research Scientists usually have more experience, may hold advanced degrees, and work on broader research initiatives in academia or industry. Both roles require strong research skills and doctoral credentials, but their responsibilities and career paths differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoc Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc Research Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, robust research experience, and advanced analytical skills. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and scientific publishing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration are essential soft skills for presenting findings and working within research teams. These skills ensure high-quality research output, effective teamwork, and successful advancement of scientific knowledge.

What is a Postdoc Research Associate?

A Postdoc Research Associate is an individual who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in advanced academic or scientific research, usually on a temporary contract. Postdocs work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, contributing to ongoing research projects and often leading their own studies. Their main goal is to gain further research experience, publish findings, and develop skills needed for academic or industry careers. Postdoc positions are common in universities, research institutes, and some private sector organizations.
Infographic showing various Postdoc Research Associate job openings in Ontario as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

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Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Date Posted: 06/15/2026
Req ID: 48566
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Arts & Science
Department: Can. Inst for Theoretical Astrophysics
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Existing Vacancy: Yes

Description:

About Us
The Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA) is Canada's national research centre dedicated to the advancement of theoretical astrophysics and our understanding of the universe. With a dual mission to foster dynamic interactions within the Canadian astrophysics community and to serve as a beacon of international excellence, CITA explores the universe's most captivating mysteries - from the origins and evolution of the cosmos to the intricate workings of black holes and distant galaxies. Through its rigorous National Postdoctoral Fellowships, Postdoctoral and Research Associate Fellowships, and extensive student supervision, CITA is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of scientific pioneers. Its vibrant visitor program and impactful workshops further ignite collaboration, ensuring CITA remains a critical nexus for innovation in theoretical astrophysics worldwide.

Your Opportunity
We are searching for a Research Associate for a one-year term, to conduct research in plasma-astrophysics with an emphasis on particle acceleration and radiation in black hole coronae with relativistic kinetic simulations. 

The successful applicant will be mentored by Professor Bart Ripperda, who will provide guidance and support. The position includes workspace and supercomputer support. Scholars will be fully integrated into CITA and will be given the opportunity to interact with the large body of postdocs and faculty.

Your Responsibilities
   Research in plasma-astrophysics of black hole coronae with kinetic simulations and publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
   Participation in the intellectual life of CITA, including group meetings, seminars and collaboration with colleagues.

Qualifications

Education
   The successful candidate must possess a PhD degree in physics.

Experience
   Evidence of research experience in relativistic plasma astrophysics, black hole coronae, particle-in-cell methods, and radiation.
   Academic record of an independent researcher.
   Demonstrated experience in computational particle-in-cell methods and code development. 
   Possess a strong interest in an academic career, demonstrated through (research, publications and academic career progression). 
   The candidate needs to have at least 4 years of postdoc experience in a related area of research 
   The candidate needs to have a track record of high-impact publications on kinetic models of turbulence in black hole coronae, e.g. in impactful journals like physical review letters

Skills
   Exceptional research, writing and analytical skills.
   Strong technical proficiency with HPC, relativistic radiative PIC plasma simulation code for black hole coronae
   Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
   Highly motivated with strong initiative.
   Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
   Ability to work independently.

Note: This posting is for a one (1) year term position, non-renewable, with a start date of approximately August 31, 2026.
 

Closing Date: 08/31/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Personnel Subarea:Research Assoc
Appointment Type: Grant - Term
Schedule:
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: 
Job Category: Research Administration & Teaching