Medical Devices Research Centre

The Medical Devices Research Centre is dedicated to fostering innovation in medical technology, supporting translation of ideas into devices used for prevention, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment.

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 insitute operates with deep expertise in biomedical engineering, materials science, micro-/nano-fabrication, digital health, and point-of-care diagnostics.

It works closely with clinicians, industry, academia, and government partners to ensure technologies move efficiently from concept through prototype to market. Facilities include polymer lab-on-a-chip and microfluidics labs, digital health software platforms, and materials processing and manufacturing laboratories.

With collaboration hubs like CRAFT (Centre for Research and Applications in Fluidic Technologies), CUTR (Collaborative Unit for Translational Research), and the Cognitive Care Network, NRC provides a rich environment for innovation in medical devices that are scalable, safe, and responsive to clinical needs.

Learn more!

Expertise in Data Science and AI

Advanced data science and software development for biomedical applications including digital health, clinician decision support, remote monitoring, and assessment tools.
Micro- and nano-fabrication combined with lab-on-a-chip and organ-on-chip systems, enabling high-throughput diagnostics and bioanalytical precision.
Simulation, interactive haptics, and extended reality / XR for training, cognitive care, surgical simulation and human-machine interaction.
Digitally augmented physiological and neurological sensing, including contactless, remote and wearable monitoring systems.
Scalable point-of-care diagnostics using low-cost polymer microfluidic systems, molecular diagnostics, and devices for cell & gene therapies and precision medicine.

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.