Research Scientist

About Olds College Of Agriculture & TechnologyFounded in 1913, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology has been offering high quality hands-on education for over a century. Through our core programming including continuing education, online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We are passionate about the Agriculture industry. Through our applied research and integrated learning, we are proud to be Canada’s Smart Agriculture College, specializing in agriculture, agrifood, horticulture, land and environmental stewardship. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.About The Olds College Centre For InnovationOlds College Centre for Innovation (OCCI) is the applied research division of Olds College of Agriculture & Technology with a focus on agriculture and smart ag technology. Industry partners connect with OCCI for support in the development and testing of innovative products in core areas: crop production, livestock production, environmental stewardship, cereal breeding and technology integration.The Opportunity - Research Scientist - permanent, full-timeThe Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production (TACLP) is focused on meeting the needs of the Canadian livestock industry by providing access to new technologies that improve production efficiencies, industry sustainability and producer viability. Research and innovation services are provided in support of feed efficiency and animal health, including feed efficiency testing, carcass analysis, behavioral assessment, early disease detection, genomics and breed selection. The Centre primarily serves cattle and sheep producers by providing technology demonstration and tools to help accelerate the adoption of innovation in the livestock sector.Key Job FunctionsResearch Planning & DevelopmentRecommend and plan research projects in conjunction with industry, technology developers, producer clients and the applicable research teamsDevelop, implement, and coordinate all research trials for successful completion as laid out in the research planSupport research activities (including literature reviews, project planning, Animal Use Protocol (AUP) document preparation and submission to the Olds College Institutional Animal Care Committee (IACUC), data collection, field activities, laboratory analyses, etc.) for related research areas (e.g., livestock, environment, smart agriculture)Funding and Grant ManagementSecure funding through grant applications to not-for-profit, provincial, and federal agencies, ensuring alignment with strategic research goalsProvide financial oversight to projects through budget preparation and management related to research projects to ensure projects stay on budgetResults Analysis, Reporting, and Knowledge TransferCoordinate the preparation of results for final reports to granting agencies, closing reports to the IACUC, and manuscripts for publication in scientific journalsPresent all scientific results to the appropriate stakeholdersPrepare and present research findings to relevant stakeholders, providing data-driven insights and actionable recommendationsLead the preparation and submission of research results for publication in peer-reviewed journals, enhancing the institution’s scientific profileLeadership & MentorshipPlan, organize, and actively participate in conferences, seminars, tours, and workshops, presenting research developments to academic, industry, and public audiencesAct as a liaison with industry partners to understand priorities, gather feedback, and integrate industry needs into research projectsMentor, and guide research personnel, including Research Associates, Research Technicians and Students Research Technicians, ensuring effective project execution and professional developmentCultivate a collaborative environment, working alongside other scientists (Colleges, Universities, Federal Research Institutions, and Industry) to align research efforts and enhance project outcomesIndustry & Stakeholder EngagementCommunicate with industry so that industry partnerships may develop and industry priorities are understood and accomplishedCollaborate with other research scientists to enhance the approved research initiativesPlan and participate in conferences, seminars, plot and facility tours, trade shows, and workshops that promote and provide information about the research and the research programCreate and maintain strategic relationships with industry stakeholders, fostering national and international collaborations that support knowledge transfer and applied solutions in livestock researchEducation/Experience/Skills/Knowledge RequiredA research-based PhD in animal science, animal behaviour, agricultural economics, rangeland science or another field related to the field of livestock production is requiredA minimum of three years of applied research experience in a similar research environmentDemonstrated proposal and grant writing expertise, as well as experience with technical reporting of interim and final project resultsBudgeting, cost and financial management experienceProven leadership and strong project management skillsThe ability to prospect, assess and communicate client needsA strongly motivated person who is a self-starter and comfortable working independently, collaboratively, or bothPrevious experience with project management software is considered an assetPossess strong technical skills and a learning aptitude for new software. Must be experienced in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) and all Google Apps (especially Email, Docs, Sheets, and Calendar).Demonstrate a strong dedication to promoting inclusivity and diversity by actively seeking out and valuing diverse perspectives, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all backgrounds, and continuously striving to create a culture of respect and understandingActively promote and reinforce practices that prioritize the well-being and security of all individuals at Olds College and show a proactive attitude towards safety measures, continuously striving to enhance safety protocols and instill a culture of shared responsibility and accountability when it comes to maintaining a safe and secure work settingHealth And SafetyThe employee is responsible for being aware of health and safety responsibilities and expectations as outlined in college policy, departmental and area procedures, and provincial legislation. The employee will attend training as required by the supervisors and conduct work in a manner that protects the health and safety of themselves and others. The employee will report health and/or safety concerns or hazards to the supervisor or the Health and Safety Committee.Conditions Of EmploymentCurrent criminal reference check that is free of any offensesMust respect and actively promote health and safety policiesThe statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the key job functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility. It is not an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Other duties may be assigned.The successful candidate must be willing to work flexible hours. Some travel to outside collaborator sites may be required, and evening and weekend work may be required.Olds College Offers a Competitive Benefit PlanDefined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefitsHealth/Personal Spending AccountGenerous Vacation LeavePaid Holiday Closure‘Olds College in the Community’ volunteer leaveProfessional development and opportunities for growth, including employee and family tuition waiversOpen until suitable candidate foundWe thank all individuals for their interest in this position. We appreciate the time involved for candidates in the application process. At this time, please note only those selected for interviews will be contacted.Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. #J-18808-Ljbffr