Research Assistant, Agricultural and Resource Economics

Primary Purpose: Applications are invited for Research Assistant position within the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics.   The successful candidate will contribute to research projects focusing on farm-level production and/or consumer demand for plant-based foods and animal welfare.

Nature of Work: The successful candidate will work on projects examining farm-level production and consumer demand for plant-based foods and animal welfare. These projects rely on large-scale datasets and demand strong skills in data management and statistical modelling. Additional expertise in behavioral economics, experimental methods, or grant writing is considered an asset.  Work will involve independent data analysis, research design, and writing, as well as close collaboration with faculty, students, and research partners. While the position is based in Saskatoon, flexible or remote work arrangements may be considered (please specify in your cover letter if you are only interested in a remote appointment). Occasional travel for conferences or research meetings may be required.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

• Manage, clean, and analyze large-scale farm and/or consumer datasets
• Apply advanced econometric and quantitative methods to research questions related to agricultural production, consumer demand, and animal welfare
• Contribute to co-authored academic publications and conference presentations
• Assist with the development of grant proposals and research reports
• Collaborate effectively with faculty, students, and external stakeholders

Education: A graduate (Master's and/or PhD) degree in agricultural economics, economics, computer science, or related discipline is required.

Experience:  

• Demonstrated expertise in econometrics and data analysis
• Experience working with large, complex datasets
• Proficiency in scientific and technical writing (e.g., journal articles, reports, conference presentations)
• Background in agriculture, food demand, or economic modeling (desirable but not required)

Skills:

• Proficiency in R
• Familiarity with other software (Python, Julia, Stata) is an asset
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is flexible, with the possibility of an immediate appointment.

Department: Agricultural&ResourceEconomics
Status: Term 1 year with the possibility of extension

Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0

Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $53, ,217.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 6

Posted Date: 11/4/2025

Closing Date: 11/24/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources for assistance.