What is the role of an R&D scientist?
Research and development (R&D) scientists play a central role in driving innovation and advancing scientific knowledge within their respective fields, including in (bio-)technology, pharmaceuticals, medicine, materials science and more.
They are responsible for spearheading research initiatives, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to push the boundaries of scientific understanding. Their work is instrumental in developing new technologies, products, and solutions while upholding rigorous scientific standards and ethical principles.
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Mechanical Layout Designer
Location: Vancouver
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Planning & Testing
Experience: 3 years
Prepare mechanical layouts, including study-level and execution-level drawings aligned with project requirements. Develop 2D mechanical layouts using AutoCAD; experience in 3D layout is considered an asset. Produce layout-related deliverables such as design criteria, design drawings, and technical reports. Ensure all drawings and designs comply with project-specific requirements, industry codes, and regulatory standards. Maintain consistent design drafting standards across projects and clearly communicate expectations to team members. Provide design input and estimating support during proposal development. Facilitate interdisciplinary coordination during layout or model development to ensure integration and accuracy. Comply with Brunel's Quality Assurance and Health, Safety & Environmental policies and procedures.
Chief Process Engineer
Location: Kamloops
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 3 years
Be a Courageous Safety Leader by adhering to safety and environmental rules and procedures, leading Safety Investigations, participating in Visible Felt Leadership and Safety Tours. Collaborate with Mill Operations, Maintenance, and support groups to design and implement process control strategies and real-time optimization for selected circuits. Manage a process control team of engineers, supervisors, and technicians. Ensure daily variance reviews and recommendations for Crushing, Grinding, Throughput, and Cu/Mo Recovery circuits. Support department meetings and provide input on forecasts, reviews, and planning sessions. Contribute to projects that maximize production, reduce costs, and resolve operational risks. Maintain monitoring programs to track performance, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions. Ensure the control systems group maintains infrastructure for regulatory and advanced applications. Author technical reports and project documents for process improvements and targets. Draft capital requests and project charters for initiatives advancing recovery, quality, safety, or cost reduction. Manage external suppliers and consultants, ensuring safety and compliance during on-site projects
Business Development Manager
Location: Timmins
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Marketing & Sales
Experience: 4 years
Identify and pursue new business opportunities in Manitoba (Winnipeg and Red Lake, Ont.) Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including engineers, project managers, and procurement teams. Collaborate closely with our mechanical team to ensure seamless delivery and implementation of engineered pump solutions. Achieving and exceeding sales targets, with a commission structure that rewards high performance Provide market feedback to the Sales Director and help shape our regional strategy. Represent the company at Mining at industry events, trade shows, and client meetings
Structural Designer
Location: Vancouver
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 2 years
Introduction Brunel is currently looking for a Structural designer to join a leading engineering firm in Vancouver. In this role, you will oversee structural engineering designs from early studies through to detailed design on a wide variety of mineral processing plant projects. This opportunity is ideal for someone looking to work on challenging projects and make a real impact in the mining and minerals sector. Responsibilities Prepare 3D structural model and 2D structural drawings (steel and concrete) for mining projects. Interface with other disciplines (civil/earthwork, architectural, mechanical, piping, electrical) to ensure structural drawings incorporated other discipline requirements. Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a member of multi-functional project teams is a must Perform site visits, inspect existing structures, prepare drawings and sketches of existing structures. Liaise with engineers for direction, specifications and feedback Maintain consistent design drafting standards across projects by communicating expectations and holding project members to account for standards Participate in model reviews with project team and clients Requirements Diploma in Engineering Design and Drafting Technology (structural or architectural) 3 - 8 years' experience in structural steel and concrete modeling, design and drafting. EPC/EPCM environment experience with mining or heavy industrial design is an asset Proficiency in AutoCAD 2D drafting is a must. Proficiency in 3D modeling or other 3D modeling software is an asset. Site experience and shop detailing is considered an asset. Well-developed written and oral skills Commitment and enthusiasm for learning
Cost Lead
Location: Vancouver
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Purchase
Experience: 5 years
A courageous safety leader who adheres to and sponsors safety and environmental rules and procedures. Maintains and demonstrate commitment to safety and environmental protection as a core value. An effective problem solver with a results-oriented approach and ability. Responsible for mentoring, coaching, evaluating and providing feedback to a team of project accountants, project cost controllers. Responsible for conducting formal performance reviews and career advancement discussions, either as a direct line supervisor or matrix supervisor. Responsible for regular planning of the resource requirements across a range of project stages and execution models. Responsible to support, as required, any ad-hoc Project Controls, Projects or related initiatives. Responsible to review and approve internal Project Controls Management Plans and internal project setups in the various cost systems. Responsible for periodic review and modifications to the appropriate Overviews/Standards/ Templates of the Projects, Project Procedures Manual. Responsible for performing audits of projects and/or service providers for conformance to Projects Overviews and Standards. Responsible to support the independent review of a project at various points in its lifecycle via Setup Reviews, Health Checks, Stage Gates, or ad-hoc audits. Responsible to participate in Independent Peer Reviews of Projects led projects, other non-Projects led projects, or joint venture partnership projects, as required. Responsible to provide input to strategic direction of project controls department. Project Accounting specific: Responsible to develop project focused accounting policies, procedures and templates for best practices related to accounting in a project setting. Responsible to define roles and responsibilities of the Project Accounting function vs other accounting functions within the Organization. Responsible to interface with other Business Units on relevant matters to ensure alignment of expectations and requirements. Responsible to analyze Projects needs as they related to Project Accounting and ensure they are incorporated into overall strategic plans. Responsible to plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate Project Accounting operations, audits of project contracts and other financial services as required. Responsible to alert and report to senior management all critical trends with respect to the financial performance of various projects in the Projects portfolio
Director of Regulatory
Location: Canada
Branche: Life Sciences
Expertise: Research & Development
Experience: 3 years
Responsible for preparing client proposals and generating new business, including leading presentations to potential RA clients, and participating in multifunctional presentations Prioritize and manage multiple simultaneous projects to meet budget (including invoice review), timelines and client expectations; anticipate and resolve emerging issues Responsible for development and implementation of RA activities including assessments, strategies, submissions and agency interactions, applying expert knowledge in core area of regulatory practice (e.g., CMC, Medical Devices, CTAs, US etc.) and at least basic knowledge outside of core area Maintain target billables by obtaining new business Creates opportunities to build agency relationships by participating in professional activities such as offering industry training, conference presentations, publications and webinars Leads client and agency interface, with responsibility for strengthening relationships and growing the business. Responsible for the quality of deliverables, by ensuring compliance with the company and client review and approval processes; identifies and implements opportunities for process improvement Develop and maintain partnerships with senior decision-makers to build the business, resolve significant issues, and create opportunities Analyze data, the regulatory environment and business objectives to make and implement recommendations, using judgement to identify innovative solutions while managing uncertainty. Lead and advise clients and cross-functional teams on agency interactions Leads decision-making and conflict resolution surrounding regulatory issues within cross-functional teams Proactively identifies, shares and interprets regulatory intelligence Manage multiple simultaneous projects to ensure that they are on budget, meet timelines and client expectations. Engages in continuous learning activities in order to provide effective consulting services and be a sought-after resource. Develop and manage 0-2 regulatory direct reports at Manager level or below, as assigned including but not limited to assignment delegation, time and budget management, skill and knowledge development
Heavy Duty Mechanic
Location: Sparwood
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Planning & Testing
Experience: 3 years
Participate in and adhere to health and safety programs and policies Perform duties that range from routine preventative maintenance to repairing major breakdowns, including troubleshooting and diagnostics Disassemble and reassemble components such as engines, transmissions, cooling systems, fuel and exhaust systems, breaks, clutches, differentials, hydraulics, electrical systems and lubrication systems Providing innovative solutions and best practices Diagnose, maintain and repair mobile off road mining equipment including haul trucks, graders, bulldozers, excavators, shovels, loaders, and other heavy equipment Working with brands including CAT, Komatsu, P&H, Hitachi, John Deere, Letourneau, Volvo, Marion upon others Schedule: 4x4 and 8x8 shift schedules available consisting of days and nights
Commissioning Manager, Hydrogen Air Separation
Location: Edmonton
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 5 years
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Commissioning Manager to lead the commissioning phase of a Hydrogen Air Separation Plant (HASP). This role is critical to ensuring all plant systems and components are installed, tested, and operational according to design intent and industry standards. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in complex industrial plant commissioning, with specific experience in hydrogen or cryogenic air separation technologies. Key Responsibilities: Lead and manage the entire commissioning process of the hydrogen air separation facility, from pre-commissioning to startup and handover. Develop and implement the commissioning plan, procedures, schedules, and checklists in line with project timelines and safety protocols. Coordinate with engineering, construction, operations, HSE, and third-party contractors to ensure smooth transition from construction to commissioning and operation. Oversee functional testing and performance verification of mechanical, electrical, process, and control systems. Supervise commissioning teams and ensure all commissioning activities are properly documented, logged, and reported. Manage and resolve any technical issues that arise during the commissioning phase. Ensure all safety procedures and risk assessments are adhered to, promoting a zero-incident culture. Lead FAT (Factory Acceptance Tests), SAT (Site Acceptance Tests), and ensure alignment with OEM/vendor specifications. Provide technical input for punch lists, pre-startup safety reviews (PSSR), and performance guarantees testing. Train plant operations and maintenance staff on new systems and processes during commissioning and handover. Support handover to operations team and ensure all documentation, drawings, and manuals are transferred and archived properly.
Medical Information Specialist
Location: Canada
Branche: Pharmaceuticals
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 2 years
Responsibilities Manage and maintain scientifically accurate response documents for the company's products, including localization of global scientific response documents and management of escalations. Analyze medical information data across global and country markets, product lines, and inquiry categories to identify trends and insights. Generate regular and ad hoc trends and insights reports using Power BI and Salesforce dashboards, and respond to data queries from internal teams. Track medical information KPIs including escalation rates, response times, and inquiries open longer than two weeks; flag deviations from targets and escalate when needed. Maintain and update BI and Salesforce dashboards; support optimization of global medical information systems through testing, SOP updates, and template enhancements. Conduct monthly quality control of MICC vendor reporting and manage vendor interactions. Participate in cross-functional initiatives involving Medical, Regulatory, Quality, R&D, and customer service stakeholders to drive process and system improvements. Collaborate with medical, regulatory, R&D, and quality colleagues to ensure appropriate referrals and answers using a modern tracking and repository system.
PTW Lead
Location: Vancouver
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Planning & Testing
Experience: 0 years
Lead daily permit planning by identifying critical jobs and coordinating with construction and operations teams. Attend production and supervisor handover meetings to track critical path activities. Participate in daily PTW meetings with operations and maintenance leads. Review permit submissions to ensure completeness and compliance with required standards. Collaborate with various departments to resolve missing or inadequate information. Contribute to risk assessments and job safety analyses to maintain high HSE standards. Support planning by identifying mechanical, process, and electrical hazards and controls. Verify all supporting documentation is included (e.g., isolation certificates, JSA, P&IDs). Coordinate lockout/tagout activities and maintain associated registers. Develop and manage isolation strategies; control and track all isolations. Ensure control measures from risk assessments are implemented before work starts. Oversee permit auditing and ensure compliance with safe work practices. Manage handovers between shifts, maintaining continuity of job and isolation status. Evaluate, issue, and monitor permits; ensure only safe, compliant work proceeds. Provide guidance and training to PTW Technicians and Assistant Coordinators. Monitor field activities to ensure alignment with permit conditions. Maintain thorough PTW documentation and participate in audits. Support continuous improvement in PTW processes and HSE compliance.
What are the required skills for an R&D scientist?
To excel as an R&D scientist, individuals must possess exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills, which are indispensable for experimental design, data interpretation, and drawing insightful conclusions. Effective communication skills are essential for collaborating with cross-functional teams and disseminating research findings to peers and the wider audience.
Additionally, R&D scientists should demonstrate proficiency in laboratory techniques pertinent to their specific domain, such as molecular biology, chemistry, or engineering. Staying current with advancements in their field and upholding the highest ethical standards in research and experimentation are also imperative.
Where do R&D scientists work?
R&D scientists find rewarding career opportunities in diverse settings, including research institutions, industrial companies, pharmaceutical firms, and government research agencies. They frequently collaborate with experts from various disciplines, bridging the gap between scientific research and practical applications.
Common R&D scientist responsibilities
- Maintain and operate laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal functionality, and manage lab material inventories;
- Plan and execute laboratory experiments and research projects to explore scientific phenomena and potential innovations;
- Conceptualize and validate experimental protocols, including the development of novel methodologies;
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate research findings into practical applications and solutions;
- Analyze complex data sets, extract meaningful insights, and provide recommendations based on research outcomes;
- Author research papers, technical reports, and scholarly articles for dissemination in scientific journals;
- Stay abreast of cutting-edge developments in their field and incorporate emerging technologies into research endeavors;
- Maintain meticulous records of experiments, protocols, and findings, adhering to industry-standard practices;
- Adhere to the highest ethical standards in research, ensuring the responsible conduct of experiments;
- Present research findings at conferences and contribute to knowledge exchange within the scientific community;
- Drive the development of innovative technologies and products that advance scientific understanding and benefit society.
Qualifications for R&D scientists
To pursue a career as an R&D scientist, candidates typically hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related discipline. Many R&D scientists also pursue advanced degrees such as Master's or Ph.D. for research-intensive roles.
Other important qualifications include:
- Expertise in laboratory techniques and research methodologies;
- Exceptional analytical and critical thinking abilities;
- Effective written and verbal communication skills;
- A strong foundation in ethical principles governing research and experimentation;
- A willingness to adapt and embrace new tech and methodologies;
- Collaborative aptitude, enabling effective teamwork in interdisciplinary research environments;
- A steadfast commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and driving innovation for the betterment of society.
