Materials as Machines Lab | Carleton University | Ottawa, Canada

Term: One year

Start date: October 2026

We are seeking a hands-on postdoctoral fellow with a strong mechanical engineering and polymers background to join the Materials as Machines Lab at Carleton University. The fellow will be primarily responsible for leading research and development of twisted-coiled polymer actuators (TCPAs) for a 1-year NSERC Alliance project in close collaboration with Exergy Solutions and the startup Beyond Renewables. The project objective is to develop a TCPA with properties tailored to a novel industry application and to integrate the TCPA into a prototype system using textile manufacturing methods.

This position offers the opportunity to work across academic research, engineering development, and a startup environment. The fellow will conduct experimental research, collaborate with the project partners, and mentor graduate students.

Qualifications

- A completed or nearly completed PhD in mechanical engineering, materials engineering or a closely related field.
- Strong knowledge of polymer science and hands-on experience with polymer processing,



textile manufacturing, materials characterization, and mechanical testing.
- Ability to design experiments, analyze results, and communicate findings clearly.
- Interest in translating research into an engineering application.
- Robust hands-on aptitude with proven ability to assemble and operate equipment and prototypes; knowledge of electronics is an asset but not required.
- Self-motivated and accountable to scheduled commitments.
- Curious and creative with a demonstrated ability to convert ideas into practical application.

Experience with smart materials, actuators, or fibre processing is an asset.

To apply, please send a CV, a brief description of your relevant research experience and sample publication, and contact information for two references to Dr. Irina Garces at [email protected]⁠. Use the subject line “Postdoctoral Fellow – Twisted-Coiled Actuators.” Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled.

📌 Postdoctoral Fellow: Twisted-Coiled Polymer Actuators (Ottawa)
🏢 Materials As Machines Lab
📍 Ottawa