Research Assistant - HVAC Automation, Design, and Machine Learning

Department of Medicine, University of Alberta

Department of Medicine, University of Alberta

Software Engineering, Design, Data Science

Edmonton, AB, Canada

Posted on Mar 19, 2026
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This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position has a term length of one year.

Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

We are seeking a motivated and technically strong candidate to support an applied R&D project focused on HVAC system design, automation, and machine learning (ML) – enabled control. The successful candidate will contribute to the development and implementation of automation strategies, data pipelines, and control logic that improve HVAC performance, robustness, and operational efficiency. This role is closely connected to an industry-facing research program (NSERC Alliance context) and will involve collaboration with academic and industry partners.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
The Faculty of Engineering is one of North America’s top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.
  • Bachelor’s degree (or MSc degree) in Mechanical Engineering, Building/Architectural Engineering, Electrical/Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated experience (academic, co-op, industry, or research) with at least two of the following:
    • HVAC Systems / Building Energy Systems
    • Controls / Automation / Instrumentation
    • Data Analytics / Python / ML Workflows
  • Building automation systems platforms, sensors, and operational data.
  • Strong ability to work independently and document work clearly.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter as ONE document.

This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

  • Supporting HVAC design and system integration, including design intent documentation and control sequences.
  • Developing and implementing HVAC automation logic (e.g., scheduling, rulebased control, supervisory control, alarms).
  • Building data acquisition and analytics workflows (trend logging, data cleaning, feature engineering).
  • Applying machine learning / data-driven methods for fault detection, prediction, optimization, or performance benchmarking (scope depending on candidate strength).
  • Assisting with commissioning-style activities: validating sensor signals, verifying sequences, diagnosing control issues, and documenting outcomes.
  • Contributing to technical reports, partner-facing deliverables, and (where relevant) publications or conference materials.
  • Collaborating with graduate trainees and project partners; supporting project coordination with the team.
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