Research Associate

**Research Associate - Biotechnology (1 year term position, maternity leave coverage)**

Western Crop Innovations (WCI) is the future of crop innovation in Canada. This federally registered not for profit organization began operations on April 1, 2024. It is carrying on the rich history of the Field Crop Development Centre which has been developing new higher yielding and more climate and disease resistant varieties of cereal grains since 1973 at its lab and research farm in Lacombe, Alberta.

Join our team as a dedicated Research Associate - Biotechnology, where we collaborate closely with breeding, quality, and pathology teams to advance barley and triticale research. We develop and perform diagnostic techniques to identify genes of economic value, monitor pathogens, and support breeding programs through molecular marker development.

This position will conduct genetic experiments, analyze data, and assist in various lab and field tasks. Collaborating across multiple programs, you’ll also contribute to lab safety and process improvements.

**_

**Job Type**: This is a full-time role (36.25 hrs per week) working onsite, for a minimum of 1 year covering off a maternity leave.
- **

**Job duties include, but are not limited to**:

- Conduct genetic experiments (e.g., PCR, DNA extraction, sequencing) to generate genotyping data for breeding programs.
- Perform plant maintenance tasks, including seed planting, phenotyping, sample collection, and harvest.
- Analyze and document experimental data, compile summaries, and store or submit results to breeders and scientists.
- Maintain lab equipment, ensure lab safety, order supplies, and perform housekeeping duties.
- Participate in the WCI safety committee by conducting lab inspections, resolving hazards, and communicating safety concerns.
- Support seasonal fieldwork for breeding programs, including identifying genetic lines, assisting with planting/harvest, and evaluating plant traits.
- Collaborate with colleagues on workload management, training seasonal staff, and fulfilling seed requests for external collaborators.
- Other duties as required.

**Experience and qualifications**:

- Sc. in Agriculture, Molecular Biology, Plant Science, Biochemistry, or related field, or a Diploma in Laboratory Research and Biotechnology.
- 3 years of lab experience with techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, and sequencing.
- Strong data analysis and reporting skills.
- Experience with Microsoft Office and lab software.
- Fieldwork experience and ability to handle physical tasks.

**What we offer**:

- Annual salary of $55,000 ($2,291.67/semi-monthly), plus 4% vacation pay