Clean Energy Innovation Research Centre

The Clean Energy Innovation Research Centre at Canada’s National Research Council (NRC) accelerates the country’s transition to a net-zero economy by developing solutions in clean energy generation, critical minerals, advanced materials, and industrial decarbonization.

About NRC

National Research Council Canada

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) operates a network of 12 research centres across the country, covering a wide variety of fields: aerospace, aquatic and crop resources, automotive and surface transportation, clean energy innovation, construction, digital technologies, astronomy and astrophysics, human health therapeutics, medical devices, metrology, ocean, coastal and river engineering, and quantum and nanotechnologies, among others.

The NRC’s mission is to have an impact by advancing knowledge, applying leading-edge technologies, and working with innovators to find creative, relevant, and sustainable solutions to today’s and tomorrow’s economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Through the cooperation between HIDA and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Helmholtz researchers can now undertake research stays of up to three months at NRC’s renowned research centres across Canada.

Learn more about the Canada Mobility Program

Created from the NRC’s former Energy, Mining & Environment division as of April 2024, it spans the full technology readiness spectrum — from fundamental research to prototyping and field testing. Its R&D covers areas such as hydrogen production and use, battery energy storage, low-carbon fuels, CO₂ capture/conversion and utilization, sensor technologies, and anaerobic bioprocessing.

Researchers have access to specialized facilities including an advanced materials research facility in Mississauga, pilot-scale battery fabrication lines, sensors hubs, hydrogen-safe laboratories, and demonstration assets for clean energy technologies across multiple NRC campuses.

The centre works with academia, industry of all sizes, other government departments, and collaborates through dedicated “Collaboration Centres” (e.g. with UBC and University of Toronto) to fast-track discovery, reduce environmental footprint, and commercialize clean-energy innovations.

Learn more!

Expertise in Data Science and AI

Modelling and simulation of energy systems, including grid integration, lifecycle analysis, and techno-economic assessments.
Use of data analytics, sensors, and real-time monitoring systems in clean energy generation, storage, and industrial decarbonization.
Predictive and diagnostic tools for materials performance, safety, and durability (e.g. battery safety testing, failure mode analysis).
Integration of AI with sustainable fuels and CO₂ conversion processes to improve efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Apply

Step 1: First, contact the NRC International Office (contact person: Terrie Romano: munic.nrc-cnrc@international.gc.ca) to discuss the possibility of a research stay. This ensures that your planned stay aligns with the relevant research areas.
Step 2: Next, reach out to a research group at one of the NRC institutes in Canada to plan the details of your stay. If you are unsure which research group might be suitable for you, you may also consult the NRC International Office for guidance.
Step 3: Submit your application through the following application portal.

Apply now!

Step 4: Your application will be reviewed by a selection committee, and you will receive a notification regarding the outcome of your funding decision.

Further information about the application process can be found here.