PhD student - Research Affiliate Program

Update: Please note that the selection process has been amended to extend the closing date to June 12, 2019 - 23:59, Pacific Time.

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Assessment accommodation

AAFC is committed to diversity and inclusion and is proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s best diversity employers. We welcome all applicants and strongly encourage candidates to self-declare if they belong to an Employment Equity designated group (i.e. Aboriginal Peoples, Persons with Disabilities, Visible Minorities or Women).

Duties

The applicant will perform research in nematology including soil sampling, extraction of nematodes from soils and identification of nematodes. The applicant will analyse the data statistically and write scientific publications. The candidate will present results in local and regional meetings and scientific conferences. In addition, the applicant will need to fulfill any requirements to complete a PhD at Memorial University of Newfoundland including taking courses, writing and defending the PhD thesis.

Work environment

The Fredericton Research and Development Centre (FRDC) is one of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s national network of 20 research centers. It is located in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Research at the FRDC is focused on potato crop productions systems. The key main areas of research at FRDC include breeding of new potato varieties, reducing pest and diseases (bacteriology, entomology, virology, mycology), increasing our understanding of potato genetics (genomics, genetics, physiology) and reducing impacts of agriculture on environment (hydrology, soil sciences).

Day-to-day work will take place at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Grenfell campus.

Laboratory work will require some prerequisite safety training. About 70 to 80% of the work will be in controlled environments and remaining portions includes field trials.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Currently enrolled/or willing to enroll in a PhD program in Environmental Science with specialization in nematology at Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Degree equivalency

Experience in practical laboratory and/or field work related to nematology.
Experience in nematode extraction from soils and their identification.

Note: In the context of student recruitment in the Federal Public Service, the experience can be acquired through the studies, work experience, or volunteer activities.

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

Knowledge of nematode diversity and population dynamics as they relate to soil health, and soil and crop productivity in agricultural production systems.
Knowledge of the effects of soil, and environmental factors and agricultural management practices on nematode communities.
Knowledge of data analysis including statistical analysis or basic bioinformatics

Interactive communication
Planning and Organization
Problem Solving
Teamwork
Initiative

Ability to apply methods and approaches to sample, extract and identify nematodes from soils.
Ability to record, keep and maintain accurate, detailed and well organized records and to collect and interpret data.
Ability to use computer software to organize and analyze data.

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance - Each student hired through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) must meet the security requirements of the position as a condition of employment, and therefore will be asked by the hiring organization to complete security-relevant documents.

Ability and willingness to work in laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field environments for extended periods at a time.
Ability and willingness to work with soils in the laboratory, or growth chamber.
Ability and willingness to work with chemicals and pesticides.
Ability and willingness to do repetitive tasks.
Valid driver’s license

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the designated groups when you apply.

Information on employment equity

Applications submitted by email will not be accepted. You must apply on-line through www.jobs.gc.ca.

Persons with disabilities preventing them from applying on-line are asked to contact 1-800-645-5605.

Candidates will be required to pay for their own travel related to assessment and successful candidates will be responsible for obtaining their own living accommodations.

Successful completion of both a RAP work assignment and your educational program may lead to a temporary or permanent federal public service position for which you meet the merit criteria and conditions of employment.

Preference

Preference will be given to Canadian citizens.

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.