Graduate Student CO-OP – AI Research and Engineering

POSITION OVERVIEW:

As a Graduate Student CO-OP – AI Research and Engineering, you will collaborate with researchers and engineers to develop and implement advanced algorithms, data analytics solutions, and AI models. This position offers an excellent opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real-world problems, contribute to research papers, and gain hands-on experience in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

VP of Operations and Director of Academic Innovation and Research Infrastructure

EMPLOYMENT TYPE:

Full-Time, Temporary (4-8 Month Contract), starting January 2026, with the possibility of extension.

SALARY RANGE:

$4,000 – $5,500 per month

WORK WEEK:

The Employee will work during regular business hours, Monday to Friday for 37.5 hours per week (not including a 30-minute unpaid meal break per day). Flexibility will be required.

LOCATION:

The Burnaby and Vancouver Campus. Flexibility to travel between and work at both campuses will be required.

WHO WE ARE:

Alexander College, in partnership with the Alexander Innovation Centre, is at the forefront of fostering technological innovation and research excellence. Located in Vancouver, BC, we focus on creating a dynamic environment for graduate students to contribute to cutting-edge research in AI, machine learning, data analytics, and advanced engineering. Through this CO-OP opportunity, students will gain valuable experience working on real-world projects that bridge the gap between academia and industry.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Currently enrolled in a research track Master’s or PhD program in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or related fields at a recognized institution (e.g., UBC, SFU, UVic).
• Previous CO-OP experience, academic research projects, or internships in a related field is preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong proficiency in programming (Python, C++, Java, etc.).
• Solid understanding of algorithm design and data structures.
• Experience with AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools and platforms (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, etc.).
• Familiarity with computer hardware, cloud computing, APIs, and AI systems is a plus.
• Experience in academic research and a strong ability to analyze complex problems and data.
• Proven ability to write and communicate complex ideas clearly through technical documentation and research papers.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); additional languages are an asset.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research and Development

• Engage in research projects related to AI, machine learning, and data analytics.
• Develop and implement innovative algorithms and models to address complex technical challenges.
• Assist in advancing AI and machine learning methodologies for use in both hardware and software platforms.

Programming and Software Development

• Write clean, optimized code in languages such as Python, R, C/C++, or Java.
• Apply advanced data structures and algorithm design techniques to solve computational problems.
• Experiment with AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools and platforms (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, Keras, Apache Spark, etc.).
• Develop, test, and deploy APIs and tools supporting AI-driven applications and data analysis.

Data Analytics and AI Systems

• Use AI techniques to analyze large-scale datasets and extract actionable insights.
• Enhance and support existing data analytics platforms, ensuring they meet the needs of internal teams and clients.
• Work on design, integration and testing for smart systems such as commercial robotics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design AI solutions tailored to specific research challenges.

Research Writing and Documentation

• Contribute to academic papers, technical reports, and documentation for internal and external publications.
• Document methodologies, code, and research processes for reproducibility and future work.
• Contribute to funding search and applications.
• Contribute to curriculum development.
• Assist in preparing research findings for publication in journals or presentation at conferences.

Collaboration and Teamwork

• Work closely with engineers, researchers, and faculty members from Alexander College, AIC and external partners.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions, team meetings, and technical discussions to drive projects forward.

How to Apply

If you are interested in the above position and you would like to apply, please e-mail your cover letter, resume, and personal statement and research proposal with the e-mail title being “[Your full-name]_Graduate Student CO-OP 2026” to hiring@alexandercollege.ca.

Please note that applications without a cover letter will not be accepted. In your cover letter, be sure to tell us what you would bring to the team and why you’d be perfect for this role. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

No phone calls please.

Alexander College and the Alexander Innovation Centre are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students. While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. Thank you!