Construction Research Centre

The Construction Research Centre at Canada’s National Research Council (NRC) is focused on advancing innovation in the construction sector through technology development, standards, and large-scale validation.

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

The center provides industry, government, and regulatory bodies with solutions in building materials and envelopes, fire safety, civil infrastructure, building operations, and human-building interaction. Its activities include developing and deploying low-carbon construction methods, enhancing climate resilience in buildings and infrastructure, creating new codes and guidelines, and evaluating materials and products for compliance.

Researchers and partners can access specialized labs and facilities for acoustic testing, structural and infrastructure testing under diverse climatic and loading conditions, and demonstration pilots. It also supports harmonized construction codes and offers tools, resources, and business arrangements to accelerate the adoption of advanced construction technologies.

Learn more!

Expertise in Data Science and AI

Data-driven modelling for building envelope performance, life cycle assessment, and carbon accounting
Simulation and predictive analytics for fire safety, structural integrity, and infrastructure durability
Use of sensor technologies and real-time monitoring in intelligent building operations and environmental control
Digitalization of construction processes, offsite construction, and performance-based code compliance
AI enabled tools for product evaluation, code development, and harmonization of building regulations

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 three-month 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 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.