Metrology Research Centre

The Metrology Research Centre is Canada’s national metrology institute, responsible for developing, maintaining, and disseminating accurate measurement standards and services.

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

As part of NRC’s Emerging Technologies division, its work spans a wide range of metrological domains, including time and frequency, chemical metrology, dimensional metrology, dosimetry, nanoscale measurements, photometry, thermometry, and standardization of electrical and power quantities.

Researchers benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities—such as the Kibble balance for realizing the kilogram, glow discharge mass spectrometry (GD-MS) for high-precision elemental analysis, advanced frequency standards (including optical clocks), calibration labs for dimensions, temperature, and vibration, as well as facilities for measuring aerosols, gases, and radiation.

The Metrology Research Centre serves government, industry, and international clients, offering traceable measurement services, certified reference materials, calibration, consultation, and supporting innovation, safety, trade, and regulatory compliance.

Learn more!

Expertise in Data Science and AI

Use of statistical and computational methods for uncertainty quantification, calibration modelling, and sensor data analysis.
AI / ML-assisted systems for analyzing complex measurement signals, e.g. in frequency/time standards, dimensional metrology, and vibration/acoustics.
Data-driven monitoring and calibration in environmental, aerosol/gas measurement, and regulatory metrology (e.g. air quality, trace gases).
Development of digital tools and reference models for chemical metrology and spectrometry, including glow discharge MS and certified reference materials.
Simulation and algorithmic methods for radiation dosimetry, thermometry, photometry, and other primary standards to improve precision, reliability, and alignment with SI units.

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.