Member, National Research Council of Canada

The National Research Council Canada (National Research Council of Canada) plays a unique role in Canada's science, technology and innovation system, undertaking large-scale, outcome-oriented and collaborative research programs that address science and innovation needs and opportunities for the country. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NRC will continue to play an active role in the Government of Canada’s pandemic response and support Canada’s economic recovery. At the same time, we are working as Canada's largest federal research and development organization to adapt our approach to tackle the world's most pressing challenges, such as climate change, aging populations and economic crises, and to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the digital economy and disruptive technologies. Leveraging the NRC's excellence in research and innovation will result in our continued contributions to national prosperity and the well-being of all Canadians.

The National Research Council Canada is a significant asset for Canada, providing a national network of expert staff and a national system of well-developed research facilities and associated equipment that deliver world-class applied research and commercialization capacity in diverse areas of research and technology development. The National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program is an internationally recognized program that supports thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises a year with innovation advice and financial assistance for commercialization. The National Research Council Canada has a rich 100-year history that includes the work of many Nobel Laureates and countless great technology success stories.

The Governing Council (comprising the Chair, the President, and up to 10 other members) provides strategic advice to the National Research Council Canada President and senior management. While being mindful of the national interest and drawing upon their expert knowledge and diverse perspectives, members help shape and influence the important work of the National Research Council Canada. Specifically, the Council advises on strategic directions, annual budgets, financial statements, the appointment of senior officers and stakeholder engagement as appropriate.

Diversity and Official Languages

We are committed to providing a healthy and accessible workplace that supports one’s dignity, self-esteem and the ability to work on one’s full potential. With this in mind, all appointees will be expected to take steps to promote and maintain a healthy, respectful, inclusive and harassment-free work environment.Preference may be given to applicants who are members of one or more of the following groups: women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of a visible minority group.The Government of Canada will consider bilingual proficiency and diversity in assessing applicants. You are therefore encouraged to include in your online profile your ability to speak and understand your second official language.

Education and Experience

• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study, or an acceptable combination of education, job-related training and/or experience;


• An advanced degree in science or engineering would be considered an asset;


• Experience in contributing to strategic planning initiatives for an organization to achieve its identified priorities, and significant experience in one or more of the following areas:
  
  
  
  • Conducting and publishing peer-reviewed research;
  
  
  • Conducting commercial research and development activities;
  
  
  • Leading and managing within a public or private research organization;
  
  
  • Leading and managing within organizations operating in key industrial sectors of the Canadian economy with which National Research Council Canada is engaged (e.g. agriculture, biotechnology, health, ICT, manufacturing and natural resources);
  
  
  • Leading an entrepreneurial enterprise or leading a financial management function in an innovative business; or
  
  
  • Developing and coordinating science and innovation policy advice.
  
  
  
  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the mandate and activities of the National Research Council Canada;


• Knowledge of the federal government and public policy environments;


• Knowledge of the industrial sectors with which National Research Council Canada is engaged (e.g. agriculture, biotechnology, health, ICT, manufacturing and natural resources);


• Knowledge of corporate governance principles and best practices;


• A broad understanding of the challenges facing Canada’s innovation system;


• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other Council members;


• Ability to think creatively and with a strategic vision;


• Ability to analyze and assess strategies, plans and financial information;


• Ability to regard sectoral or regional issues from a national perspective; and


• Superior communication skills, both written and oral.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages would be preferred.

• Strategic and innovative thinker


• Leadership and sound judgment


• Superior interpersonal skills


• High ethical standards and integrity


• Tact and diplomacy

Eligibility Factors and Conditions of Employment

• Appointees must comply with the Ethical and Political Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders throughout their appointment as a term and condition of employment. The guidelines are available on the Governor in Council Appointments website under the Forms and reference material.


• All appointees are subject to the Conflicts of Interest Act. Public office holders appointed on a full-time basis must also submit to the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics within 60 days of appointment, a confidential report in which they disclose all of their assets, liabilities and outside activities. For more information, please visit the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner's website.


• Appointees must uphold the highest standards of probity and are expected to demonstrate behaviours in the workplace that afford respect, equality and dignity, to everyone they interact with at work at all times. The Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector outlines the values and expected behaviours for public servants, including valuing diversity and creating workplaces free from harassment and discrimination. Governor in Council appointees are expected to uphold and respect these values and principles in a positive and active manner.


• If you are appointed to one of these positions, you must be willing to participate in Council and committee meetings in Canada. These commitments include at least four in-person meetings each year (either in person or virtually) with additional meetings by videoconference as required. Members who serve on standing or special committees of Council will be required to participate in additional in-person meetings and teleconferences. Three of the four meetings are normally in Ottawa.


• You are willing to commit up to 15 to 20 days per year to Council business.

A link to this notice will be placed in the Canada Gazette to assist the Governor in Council in identifying qualified candidates. It is not, however, intended to be the sole means of recruitment.

A list of qualified candidates may be established and may be used for similar opportunities.

How to Apply

Review of applications (more information available here) will begin on May 25, 2021. Candidates should apply online via the Governor in Council Appointments website. Candidates are strongly encouraged to submit their applications by this date. After this date, your application will be retained and may be considered up until an appointment to the position is made. Your cover letter should be addressed to the Deputy Director of Selection Processes, Senior Personnel Secretariat, Privy Council Office, and should be sent only through the online application.

Instructions on how to apply for an appointment opportunity can be found on the Governor in Council Appointments website.