Research Associate

at  Queens University

ABOUT QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

Queen’s University is the Canadian research intensive university with a transformative student learning experience. Here the employment experience is as diverse as it is interesting. We have opportunities in multiple areas of globally recognized research, faculty administration, engineering & construction, athletics & recreation, power generation, corporate shared services, and many more.
We are committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from individuals from equity seeking groups such as women, racialized/visible minorities, Indigenous/Aboriginal peoples, persons with a disability, persons who identify in the LGBTQ+ community and others who reflect the diversity of Canadian society.
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JOB SUMMARY

This position supports a research project that involves the application of operations research and data science techniques in the context of sustainable operations and circular economy. This federally funded interdisciplinary research project aims at developing data-driven decision-making tools for valorizing municipal organic waste to energy and value-added chemicals. As such, the position offers an exciting opportunity to utilize big data in addressing persistent environmental and sustainability challenges, supporting regional and government decision-making to implement best practices to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
Our team will implement this mission through the following set of objectives:
1.Generate innovative and relevant research on sustainable operations and effectively communicate this research to all pertinent stakeholders.
2.Serve as a platform for collaboration between government, academia, and industry.
The project is led by Dr. Vedat Verter, Professor and Stephen J.R. Smith Chair and Dr. Elaheh Fata, Assistant Professor. Applicants are encouraged to reach out the co-supervisors with any questions they may have regarding the position.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in a research-focused program preferred. PhD in operations research, data science, industrial engineering, or other engineering specializations with data science and/or optimization background is considered a strong asset
• Previous research experience, including published research articles, is a strong asset.
• Experience in programming, managing, and analyzing large data sets.
• Excellent modelling and analytical skills with expertise in one or more of the following methodologies: large-scale optimization, stochastic programming, robust optimization, and machine learning.
• Professional experience in sustainable operations is considered an asset.

SPECIAL SKILLS:

• Judgement, initiative, and foresight to design and implement novel ways of solving problems and choosing the best protocol for performing research.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to facilitate information sharing, composing reports and delivering presentations.
• A general understanding of the major issues involved in the field.
• Ability to work independently to acquire and analyze data.
• Ability to work effectively with other team members.
• Strong programming and data collection skills and experience.
• Ability to meet short deadlines in a fast-paced work environment.

• Build the team’s value through specific research and disseminate research through publications, conferences, and other appropriate channels.
• Complete a variety of research projects in coordination with the team leaders. These projects will include a mix of academic research, data analyses, and journal submissions.
• Assist in leading and actively participating in industry and academic research efforts with internal and external stakeholders/teams. These stakeholders include but are not limited to, internal faculty, collaborators from industry, and government.
• In conjunction with the team, the incumbent will determine and address the industry’s most pressing information needs and transform them into rigorous research programs.
• Independently source out, acquire, analyze, and present the outcomes of the project to a variety of audiences.
• Obtain ideas and information by acting as a liaison to outside agencies and colleagues.
• Read current literature and consult with experts. Communicate results to foster collaborative research efforts.
• Support the team’s research activities domestically and globally through various research efforts and activities.
• Undertake other duties or special projects as required in support of the unit.