Senior Research Assistant
Lakehead University
Engineering
Thunder Bay
Part-time
Contract
Overview
This position supports research activities within the Department of Mechanical Engineering by carrying out technical and research-related tasks that require specialized knowledge, practical experience, and a high degree of independence. The role involves coordinating and conducting experiments, operating and maintaining specialized equipment, supporting data collection and analysis, preparing research documentation, and assisting with reports, presentations, or publications. The incumbent may also support the development of research protocols, maintain quality control and safety procedures, troubleshoot equipment or process issues, and provide guidance to students or research staff on equipment use and research procedures.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and conduct research experiments in accordance with established methods, procedures, and protocols.
- Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot specialized laboratory or technical equipment.
- Support the design, setup, testing, and evaluation of research activities, equipment, models, or prototypes.
- Collect, manage, and organize research data accurately and securely.
- Conduct preliminary data analysis, summarize findings, and assist with preparing reports, manuscripts, presentations, or publications.
- Maintain quality control procedures and ensure research activities meet required standards.
- Develop, update, and follow standard operating procedures related to equipment use, safety, and research administration.
- Assist with the development of research protocols, data collection tools, surveys, interviews, or focus group materials, as applicable.
- Support participant recruitment and communication, where required.
- Train students, research staff, or team members on research procedures, equipment use, and safety requirements.
- Schedule, coordinate, or review the work of junior staff or students, as required.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety requirements, research protocols, and departmental procedures.
- Collaborate with researchers, students, and internal or external partners to support research objectives.
Qualifications
- University degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, Science, or a related discipline.
- 1-2 years of relevant research, laboratory, technical, or applied engineering experience.
- Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Experience conducting experiments and supporting research activities.
- Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting specialized equipment.
- Experience collecting, managing, and analyzing research data.
- Ability to follow established research protocols, safety procedures, and quality control standards.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team environment.
Lakehead University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including women, racialized persons, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. This is in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements.
Lakehead University has a goal to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as measured by increasing representation of underrepresented groups among applicants, candidates, and hires. Experience working with Indigenous or racialized communities, and/or members of other equity-deserving groups, is a strong asset. A lived experience or worked experience of any of these issues is preferred.
We appreciate your interest; Lakehead University is committed to supporting an accessible environment. Applicants requiring accommodation during the interview process should contact the Office of Human Resources at (807) 343-8010 ext. 8334 or [email protected] to make appropriate arrangements.
Why Lakehead University?
Thursday, June 18, 2026 - 11:59pm
$22.90 - $25.26 (RFP 3)
No, not eligible for benefits
Gen-26-26
Thursday, June 18, 2026 - 11:59pm
$22.90 - $25.26 (RFP 3)
No, not eligible for benefits
Gen-26-26