Fuel Research Scientist

• Conducting multi‑disciplinary research to advance the fabrication and assessment of advanced nuclear fuels and structural materials for high‑temperature reactor applications.
• Assisting in developing fabrication and quality control processes for TRi‑structural ISOtropic (TRISO)‑based nuclear fuel.
• Assisting in developing and applying additive manufacturing processes for uranium‑based nuclear fuels.
• Developing and implementing quality assurance plans for experiments, including improving measurement methods and standardizing procedures to ensure high‑quality data.
• Preparing, writing, and presenting experimental results in a timely manner through technical reports, peer‑reviewed journal publications, and presentations at internal forums and national or international conferences.
• Collaborating with junior and senior CNL staff across research branches and support organizations (radiation protection, trades, procurement, and waste management), as well as external partners, manufacturers, and suppliers.
• Working as part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technologists engaged in nuclear fuel research.
• Ensuring compliance with all safety, health, and CNL quality program requirements.
• Supporting researchers and technical officers in planning, designing, implementing, and conducting experimental programs.
• Reporting regular progress and updates on assigned projects.
• Preparing and managing work control documentation in compliance with CNL safety‑related programs.
• Other duties as assigned by your manager.

• Education

• At minimum, a Bachelor's (Honour) in Engineering or Science from a university of recognized standing; or membership in an engineering or scientific professional organization authorized by statute to establish qualification for membership in that organization.
• A Ph.D. from a university of recognized standing, in materials science, physics, chemistry, engineering or a related field, with material fabrication experience would be considered an asset.
• Experience

• A minimum of 8-10 years of experience in a nuclear engineering environment is required, including proposal writing, data analysis, and technical report writing.
• A strong background in materials science, and inorganic and physical chemistry is an asset.
• Experience with molten salts, ionic liquids, or metallic alloys is an asset.
• Experience in problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in experimental science.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively present work to expert and non-expert audiences.
• Demonstrated motivation and ablity to work independently and collaboratively.
• Working knowledge of various materials characterization techniques, for example, optical microscopy, SEM, TGA, DSC, and dilatometry.
• Knowledge of safety procedures in laboratory operations is essential.
• Knowledge of nuclear fuel concepts and principles is an asset.
• Knowledge of nuclear materials handling practices and procedures is desirable.
• A good understanding of compliance and applicable Quality Assurance (QA) programs, and a keen safety culture are needed to perform well in this job.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities.
• Expertise in high-temperature materials fabrication, additive manufacturing, and/or wet route is an asset.
• Expertise in thermal, physical, and microstructural materials characterization is an asset
• Knowledge of research practices and principles is an asset.
• Security Clearance Eligibility Required

• Level 2 Secret requires a minimum of 7 years of verifiable history in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and/or the United Kingdom. CNL implements security screening in accordance with the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat's “Standard on Security Screening” and the “Policy on Government Security.”

• Working schedule: Five (5) days per week, seven and a half (7.5) hours per day for a thirty-seven and a half (37.5) hour work week.
• This position is part of the CRPEG Union and is governed by the terms and conditions outlined in their Collective Agreement. As a member of this bargaining unit, you’ll benefit from clear expectations around hours of work, wages, vacation, and other conditions that support a fair and consistent working environment.
• Work in moderate-radiation-hazard environments where personal protective equipment is required (Radioisotope Laboratories, Hot Cells).
• Work location will be in CNL’s controlled area (radiation training required and provided; must be able to use a respirator; frequent monitoring is necessary; security checkpoints are part of the daily routine; daily commute by foot from the parking lot to the work area is required; food and drink limitations exist in the work area).
• Food consumption is generally not possible except at lunchtime.
• The environment demands high vigilance to alarms, lights and signals as a safety requirement.
• Occasional daytime/overnight travel to national or foreign locations.

• Paid time off: vacation, sick, personal, and floater days
• Benefits effective Day One – no waiting period
• Tuition support to help you keep learning and growing
• A defined-benefit pension plan or a defined-contribution pension plan, depending on your employee group, to support your long‑term financial security

• Delivering clean energy for today and tomorrow
• Restoring and protecting the environment
• Contributing to the health of Canadians

• Respect
• Teamwork
• Accountability
• Safety
• Integrity
• Excellence

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories