Scientific Advisor; temporary

Status:
Full time, temporary, until March 26, 2027

Location:

Ottawa, Ontario, or Toronto, Ontario (hybrid)

Closing date:
July 22, 2026

Salary range: $103,850 to $126,930 per year

Canada’s Drug Agency (CDA-AMC) is a pan‑Canadian health organization dedicated to providing independent evidence and advice on drugs, health technologies, and health system strategies. The agency operates out of Ottawa and Toronto, and works collaboratively with national and international partners to enhance health system performance across Canada.

Employees participate in a hybrid workspace arrangement that allows flexibility and work‑life balance. This position requires a minimum of two days onsite per week, though the exact schedule may vary based on business needs.

The Scientific Advisor will contribute to CDA‑AMC’s reports by applying rigorous methodologies and quality standards to ensure timely, high‑quality outputs. The role also involves methodological development and advancement of evidence standards to maintain the credibility of CDA‑AMC’s work.

• Conduct and review clinical evidence appraisals, providing guidance on the interpretation of statistical analyses and ensuring proper methodological application.
• Lead the development, maintenance, and application of quantitative methods for clinical evidence appraisal and the production of health technology assessment reports.
• Align methods and quality standards with best practices from other health technology assessment agencies.
• Ensure evidence appraisal and reporting comply with applicable quantitative methods and quality standards.
• Provide expertise and guidance to CDA‑AMC employees, and develop and deliver technical and educational training as required.
• Collaborate with experts, academia, external organizations, and industry representatives to discuss, promote, and align CDA‑AMC methods and tools with best practices.
• Assist with other Science and Methods functions as needed, including Real‑World Evidence and Scientific Advice.

• Graduate or postgraduate degree in a health‑related discipline (e.g., biostatistics, clinical epidemiology, pharmacy, public health, social sciences, psychology, statistics) or a related field, with 2 to 5 years of quantitative research experience in a relevant health sector.
• Broad knowledge and experience in quantitative research design and methodologies, including study conduct, statistical analyses, and reporting.
• Experience with principles of evidence‑based medicine and critical appraisal of evidence; understanding of evidence appraisal and synthesis standards.
• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to build and sustain effective relationships in a team environment.
• Proven ability to influence and persuade others to support objectives and achieve successful outcomes.
• Excellent prioritization and time‑management skills, capable of handling multiple tasks and deadlines under pressure.
• Independent problem‑solving ability, contributing to methodology development and advocating for ongoing change.
• Continuous learning mindset, staying current on national and international HTA programs and evidence synthesis trends.
• Strategic thinking, anticipating organizational goals and developing actionable plans.
• Broad understanding of the Canadian health care system and the role of HTA.
• Effective synthesis and analytical skills.
• Advanced oral and written communication skills.

• Graduate or postgraduate degree in statistics or biostatistics.
• Basic understanding of health economics and the use of clinical data in economic modeling.
• Fluency in French.

• Team‑focused, supportive, and inclusive work environment.
• Competitive compensation package and participation in a defined benefit pension plan with the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP).
• Comprehensive benefits for employees and dependents, including health, dental, life, travel insurance, spending accounts, and an employee assistance program.
• Generous paid time off, including a minimum of four weeks of vacation, paid sick leave, life leave, a December holiday closure, a birthday paid day off, and additional leave…