Graduate Student – Master’s level - Research Affiliate Program

Update: Please note that the salary has been amended..

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 project work aims to summarize i) historical records of agricultural insect pest population densities in selected crops; and ii) historical weather data. Using these summaries and statistical and mathematical procedures, cause and effect relationships will be sought. The central question is whether there is an association between weather variables (e.g. degree days, maximum and minimum temperatures, rainfall) and pest temporal occurrence and density. With such an association, the student will project implications for pest control needs in the future, and anticipate changes in population dynamics for other insect pests.

The project work involves accessing historical paper records of pest population data and with assistance, entering them into a computer database software. This will involve coordination with a research assistant assigned to the task of digitizing the records. Electronic weather records will also be accessed and summarized from select weather stations.

Work environment

This is an exciting opportunity for a student interested in climate change and its effect on biological systems – particularly those involving agricultural pests and their management to protect crops.

Day-to-day work will primarily take place at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Research and Development Centre in Agassiz, British Columbia. In addition, part of the computer work may be conducted from home.

In essence, project work is computer-centered in an office setting, accompanied by consultation with advisors and colleagues. Updates on findings will be presented to advisors in person or by video conference. Findings of significance will be presented at scientific venues.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A covering letter "In addition to a general introduction of themselves, applicants are asked to describe a project in which they used mathematical and/or statistical procedures to analyze a dataset involving one or more biological organisms, and the key findings. The project can be through academic studies, work experience or volunteer activities. Maximum 500 words for the entire cover letter."

Contact information for 3 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 will be enrolled by the date of appointment in a Master of Science program at the University of British Columbia.

Bachelor* of Science degree from a recognized post-secondary academic institution with courses in i) an applied science e.g. biology, entomology, agriculture; ii) mathematics or statistics (200 level or above); iii) climate science (optional).

*Note:
Students who will be graduating with their Bachelors degree in December 2021 or April 2022 may still apply, however the previous educational course requirement applies.

Degree equivalency

Experience:
Experience* in mathematics or statistical calculations, or advanced manipulation of datasets
Experience* working with arthropods, pest management, or other organisms

*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 basic biological and agricultural concepts, entomology, or pest management
Knowledge of basic climate science concepts
Knowledge of basic mathematics or statistics, and mathematical or statistical software
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite

Competencies:
Work independently
Interpersonal skills
Creativity and innovation
Strategic and analytical thinking
Planning and organizing
Initiative
Insightfulness

Abilities:
Ability to make observations; summarize, analyze, and graph datasets; and contribute to the preparation of research papers.
Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

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

Agriculture and Agri-food Canada recognizes that the diversity of its employee population contributes to its strength and integrity. We are committed to achieving employment equity and developing a highly capable workforce that is representative of Canadian Society. We encourage women (especially in non-traditional occupations), Indigenous peoples (Aboriginal peoples), persons with disabilities, and members of visible minority groups to apply and declare themselves as part of one or more of the Employment Equity groups as selection may be limited to candidates belonging to one or more of the groups. Preference will be given to a Canadian citizen.

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.

Valid driver’s license.
Ability and willingness to travel locally to meet with project collaborators.
Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

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 https://www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs/opportunities/government.html.

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.