Research Scientist

We are seeking a highly skilled Research Associate to join our team at Western Crop Innovations. As a key member of our research team, you will play a critical role in advancing our understanding of plant pathology and cereal breeding.

• Coordinate and conduct pathology operations across field, laboratory, and office settings.
• Support the development of new barley and triticale varieties through disease screening, surveys, and inoculum preparation.
• Design and execute field and greenhouse experiments on pathogen populations and host interactions.
• Organize and manage pathology field trials from preparation to harvest.
• Collect, tabulate, and analyze experimental data; maintain databases.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on disease management strategies.
• Stay updated on plant pathology advancements and integrate new methodologies.
• Supervise seasonal workers and summer students.
• Assist in technical report preparation and contribute to scientific publications and grant proposals.
• Manage procurement of lab and field supplies.

• BSc in Biology, Agriculture, or related field; or Master's degree in agriculture, plant pathology or microbiology.
• Knowledge of cereal diseases in Western Canada preferred.
• Experience in classical and molecular plant pathology and microbiology techniques.
• Proficiency in experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Strong communication skills for scientific communication and stakeholder interaction.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• First Aid and WHMIS training preferred.
• Experience in resistance breeding and working with cereal diseases is an asset.
• Hands-on experience with in vitro culture of pathogens, molecular biology techniques, and bioinformatics is an asset.

• Competitive base salary
• 22 days of vacation to start
• 6 paid wellness days each year
• Immediate access to employer paid Group Benefits including Health and Dental coverage and Short-Term Disability (Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance premiums are paid by the employee), eligible upon hire
• Group RRSP matching at 6% upon completion of probation period

Western Crop Innovations supports a diverse and inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.