MSc student - Research Affiliate Program

Update: UPDATE: Please note that the selection process has been amended to extend the closing date to April 13, 2021 - 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).

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

The student will conduct research on Salmonella bacteriophages, with the aim of identifying bacteriophages that utilize specific protein receptors on the cell surface of Salmonella for infection. Expected approaches will include:
- Isolation and characterization of novel bacteriophages
- Screening assays to determine bacteriophage receptors
- Validation of bacteriophage infection efficacy using in vivo food systems

Work environment

The food microbiology program at the Summerland Research and Development Centre is led by Dr. Karen Fong and conducts research to ensure the safety and security of the Canadian food supply. The Summerland Research and Development Centre is one of 20 research centres in Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s national network. Established in 1914, it is in the heart of the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia and contains a food processing facility, a control level II laboratory and a full microscopy suite.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

Contact information for 2 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)

Currently enrolled/or willing to enroll in an MSc program at the University of British Columbia, specializing in Food Science.

Degree equivalency

Experience* in conducting scientific research

*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 experimental design and statistics
Knowledge of microbiological principles as it relates to food and food safety

Initiative
Strong analytical skills
Persistence
Planning & organization
Good interpersonal skills

Ability to plan, design and conduct scientific research.
Ability to accurately collect, record and analyze data and summarize results.
Ability to communicate well orally and in writing.
Ability to contribute to the development and preparation of manuscripts.
Ability to work independently.

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

Information on employment equity

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.

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.