New Technologies for Canadian Observatories

If you are interested in applying, please contact us at ntco@uvic.ca

The NSERC-CREATE NTCO training program is designed to prepare students for leadership positions in Canadian astronomy and high-tech industry, while also helping to generate industrial initiatives within Canada. NTCO will elevate Canada's global position in emerging instrumentation technologies, helping to maximize Canadian investments in multi-national ground-based, space-based, remote-orbiting and space-cruising observatories.

The NTCO program is ideal for students who are seeking hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies. Student researchers are provided with funding, professional skills training, real-life experience in industry, and opportunities to connect with researchers at universities and government labs. Through internships at innovative companies across the country, they contribute to the next generation of astronomical instrumentation and bring that experience back to their universities.

NTCO is a national program. Our initial team was comprised of members from five universities, three observatories, two astronomy institutes, one government lab, and several Canadian industries. As of September 2020, the program has grown to include 21 students from 12 universities.  We’re always interested in expanding the reach of our program; new students and industrial partners are encouraged to explore our website and contact the Program Coordinator for more information.