Scientific research assistant - Research Affiliate Program

Update: Please note that the selection process has been amended to extend the closing date to March 20, 2023 - 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

Due to the breadth of the research undertaken at the Centre the individual will provide support and technical assistance at an Agriculture and Agri-Food Research Centre in some or all of the following by:
• Contributing to the development of analytical methods and evaluation techniques;
• Contributing to the development of new techniques and methods;
• Contributing to collection and completion of data analysis;
• Assisting with laboratory and field support for research programs;
• Carrying out research activities under lab and/or field conditions;
• Assisting in the maintenance of research equipment.

Work environment

The Fredericton Research and Development Centre in Fredericton, New Brunswick is one of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's network of 20 research centres. The main focus of research conducted at the centre is in three areas:

• Potato germplasm enhancement
• Crop protection
• Enhancing the environmental performance of agricultural production systems

The Fredericton Research and Development Centre develops new potato varieties, new knowledge, and new technologies to support the adoption of economically and environmentally sustainable agricultural production systems.

AAFC is committed to diversity and inclusion. We have several networks dedicated to ensuring that the department continues to grow as an inclusive, accessible, respectful and diverse workplace. All employees are encouraged and welcomed to join the networks and participate in their activities and events.

• The Gender and Sexual Diversity Inclusiveness Network
• The Indigenous Network Circle
• The Managers' Community
• The Persons with Disabilities Network
• The Student Panel of Representatives for Orientation, Unity and Training
• The Visible Minorities Network
• The Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network
• The Young Professional's Network

Positions to be filled: 20

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)

EDUCATION:
Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s or PhD program in a recognized post-secondary academic institution (College or University) with specialization in:

Agricultural Sciences;
Plant Sciences;
Biology;
Bioscience Technology;
Chemistry;
Environmental Sciences;
Biological/Bioresource/Environmental Engineering;
Food Sciences;
Natural Resources;
Microbiology;
Entomology;
Soil Sciences;
Bioinformatics/Data Science/Statistics
Plant Pathology
or another related agricultural program.

Degree equivalency

EXPERIENCE:
Experience* involving practical laboratory (component of course) and/or field work.
Experience* collecting scientific data or observations.
Experience* performing analysis on samples.

*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

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.

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.

• Possession of a valid driver's license or personal mobility to the extent normally associated with the possession of a valid driver’s license.
• Known allergies must be controlled through the use of personal protective equipment and/or medication and must not impinge upon the duties to be performed.
• With appropriate safety precautions in place, able and willing to work in laboratory, greenhouse, field environments for extended periods at a time; able and willing to work outdoors under various weather conditions and under normal safety precautions able and willing to work with hazardous materials.

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

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