MSc Student - Research Assistant/Critical Minerals

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Assessment accommodation

Duties

Brine mining comes under spotlight today, inspired by low-cost Li extraction from continental Salinas and deep formation brines. Input of energy from solar or wind power brings such technological chains to zero carbon emission. Elements of high demand sought in brines are Li, Rb, Cs, Sr, Mg, K, Ni, Co, Ga, Ge, and the rare earth elements (REEs: Ce La, Nd, Gd, Sm, Dy, Sc, Y, Yb, Lu). These elements, in different combinations, are listed in the Critical Raw Materials (CRM) strategies of Canada and worldwide. However, aside from potash, CRM potential in saltworks and rock salts of Canada is poorly known, and for many elements, like REEs, remains completely unexplored. Filling this gap of knowledge constitutes part of CMGD (Critical Minerals Geoscience and Data) Program of the Government of Canada. The RAP associate is expected to take an important part in this research. Duties will include laboratory works at the University of Calgary and Geological Survey of Canada – Calgary (7 minutes walk from each other), data mining, sample and data curation, geochemical data interpretation, diligence and creativity while writing thesis and/or research paper. Training and advisory will be provided by the Faculty and GSC scientists. Visits to salt mines, tailings, solution-mining sites, work with drillhole cores, and interactions with knowledgeable scientists and technicians will be part of this MSc project. Co-delivering results as his/her MSc thesis and publications, as well as resultant professional network, will be essential for further success in geoscience or environmental science career.

Work environment

At Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), a federal government job means developing leadership skills, fostering teamwork, and supporting creativity and innovation. We know it takes people from diverse pools of talent to make this happen. That is why we are looking for people like you. As an employee at NRCan you can enjoy diverse employment opportunities, a range of career development programs, and a learning culture that supports you to learn on an ongoing basis. We support balancing your work and private life by offering the benefits of flexible work arrangements.

The Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) is part of Natural Resources Canada’s Lands and Minerals Sector. It is a national organization for geoscientific information and research. Its world-class expertise focuses on the sustainable development of Canada’s mineral, energy and water resources; stewardship of Canada’s environment; management of natural geological and related hazards; and technology innovation.

Intent of the process

The intention is to staff one (1) student position for the completion of a Master of Science degree at the University of Calgary.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

• Currently enrolled or willing to enroll at the University of Calgary in a Master of Science program with a specialization in a field relevant to the position, that requires research as part of the curriculum.

Degree equivalency

If you possess any of the following, your application must also clearly explain how you meet it (other qualifications)

• Willingness and ability to adhere to safety protocols while in the lab or field

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

• Background knowledge on aqueous geochemistry
• Background knowledge on rock geochemistry
• Self-motivated
• Proactive
• Research curiosity

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

Selection may be limited to members of the following Employment Equity groups: Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, women

Information on employment equity

Natural Resources Canada is committed to establishing and maintaining a representative workforce. This organizational need may be identified as part of the appointment decision. In such cases, qualified candidates who self-declare as members of a visible minority group, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities or women (in non-traditional occupations) could be considered in priority.

Conditions of employment

• Reliability Status security clearance - Each student hired through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) must meet the security requirements of the position as a condition of employment. Therefore, the student will be asked by the hiring organization to complete security-related documents.

Other information

We thank all applicants for their interest in our position(s). For the purpose of this staffing process, only candidates selected for further assessment will be contacted.

For further information on the Research Affiliate Program (RAP), please visit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-service-commission/jobs/services/recruitment/students/research-affiliate-program.html

You must provide proof of your education credentials, transcripts may be required.

Candidates with foreign credentials must provide proof of Canadian equivalency. Consult the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials for further information at http://www.cicic.ca/.

Persons are entitled to participate in the appointment process in the official language of their choice.

Preference

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.