Master Student - Biology - Research Affiliate Program

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).

Persons are entitled to participate in the appointment process in the official language of their choice. Applicants are asked to indicate their preferred official language in their application.

Communication for this process will be sent via email. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure accurate contact information is provided and updated as required. Candidates who apply to this selection process should include an email address that accepts email from unknown users (some email systems block these types of email).

Duties

1. To prepare biological samples, perform molecular genetics experiments in a wet lab following established protocols and modify/optimize protocols as needed by the experiments;
2. To analyze data using existing software, tools and scripts;
3. To perform data analyses of small and large datasets to validate biological hypotheses;
4. To summarize and interpret results in the format of scientific manuscript(s) to be published in recognized peer-reviewed journal(s);
5. To write reports of research and to present the research findings at workshops, field days and scientific meetings;
6. To write and defend a Master thesis; wherein, the report of the research carried out during the Master project is reported.

Work environment

The Ottawa Research and Development Centre (RDC) was established in 1886. It is located in Ottawa, Ontario at the Central Experimental Farm. It is one of the original five experimental farms established by the Government of Canada in 1886 under the Experimental Farm Station Act to conduct research in support of Canadian agriculture.
The Ottawa RDC leads Manitoba to Prince Edward Island in crop development, targeting corn, soy, spring wheat, winter wheat, oats and barley. It also supports research conducted at other research centres in the areas of food safety, mycotoxins, and biocontrol.
The Centre's main research focus lies in three areas:
• Crop genetic enhancement and genomics
• Biodiversity of vascular plant, fungi and bacteria, and invertebrates
• Integrated assessment of long-term environmental effect of agricultural practices

Intent of the process

Limited to Master student in Biology accepted or enrolled at University of Ottawa because Dr. Sylvie Cloutier, an adjunct professor at this department/University will be the supervisor of the student. Furthermore, the research will be conducted in Ottawa at the Ottawa Research and Development Centre of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

Contact information for 1 references.

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)

EDUCATION
Currently enrolled or willing/eligible to enroll by the appointment start date in the Masters’ program at the University of Ottawa, with specialization in Biology.

Degree equivalency

EXPERIENCE
Experience in molecular genetics including DNA extraction, PCR and electrophoresis
Experience in analyzing data using R Studio

*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
Knowledge of R Studio
Knowledge of molecular biology and genetics

COMPETENCIES
Initiative
Adaptability
Teamwork

ABILITIES
Ability to summarize and interpret biological data

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

Selection may be limited to members of the following Employment Equity groups: Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, women.

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance - Ability and willingness to work overtime.

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.

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 the email referenced below under “Contact Information”.

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.