Positions/Opportunities

Dean, Ontario Agricultural College. University of Guelph

The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), at the University of Guelph (U of G), is seeking a new Dean, and invites applications and nominations. The Dean will take office in the summer of 2025.

The new Dean will work together with an executive team to build on this success, and continue to drive OAC forward. The College is seeking a visionary leader who shares its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service, and who has the ambition to develop and strengthen OAC’s place as a world leader and enhance Canada’s position as an agricultural exporter. The Dean will bolster OAC’s international reputation and attract the brightest and most talented faculty and students from around the world.

The successful candidate will be an established scholar and expert in a relevant field, appointable at the rank of full professor, with experience in a leadership position. They will have the ability to think and act strategically, to work collegially across the institution, and demonstrate the ability to make decisions in a clear and consultative manner. The new Dean must be a person with superb leadership skills, showcase evidence of creating a positive culture, and have a track record of fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The Dean will demonstrate a global perspective and excellent interpersonal skills to build, nurture, and deepen the many relationships and partnerships vital to the College’s success. Creative and innovative, the Dean will display success in reimagining academic programming and partnerships, and steer the sector through significant technological developments. The financial skills and experience to shepherd OAC through a period of budgetary transition are essential. This is an outstanding opportunity to provide leadership to a world-renowned agricultural college, at one of Canada’s finest universities.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Master Graduate Research Assistantship Genomics/Phenomics-Assisted Dry Bean Breeding

The Dry Bean Breeding & Computational Biology Lab at the University of Guelph is excited to announce the availability of two graduate research assistantships for highly motivated and talented individuals. These positions offer a unique opportunity to join our vibrant research team and engage in cutting-edge projects focusing on Multiomics – assisted dry bean breeding. 

Department: Plant Agriculture, Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), University of Guelph

Location: Guelph, Ontario 

Start Date: Winter/Spring 2025 

Number of positions: 2 

Position Overview: 

Anthracnose, a significant fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, has recently impacted dry bean yield and performance across Ontario, jeopardizing the profits of growers and the dry bean industry. The current anthracnose outbreak, raising concerns about the emergence of a new race or reduced efficacy against race 73. This proposal aims to develop advanced phenomics and genomics markers linked to anthracnose resistance, enabling efficient screening of dry bean populations to accurately and quickly select high-yielding, anthracnose-resistant genotypes. Key objectives include determining whether a new race has emerged or if race 73 persists, using high-throughput technologies such as spectral imaging for rapid screening in early growth stages, and developing molecular markers to enhance anthracnose resilience in dry beans. 

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

University of Guelph: Assistant Professor – Dry Bean Agronomy and Pest Management

The Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph invites applications for a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level for the Professorship in Dry Bean Agronomy and Pest Management.  This position is located at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus, located in the municipality of Chatham-Kent, 200 km southwest of the University’s main campus in Guelph.

The holder of the Professorship in Dry Bean Agronomy and Pest Management will directly contribute to industry and address societal issues such as the impact of climate change and food security. They will possess the ability to work in partnership with researchers from the UofG, nationally and internationally, to advance dry bean agronomy and pest management. Effective communication skills, including the ability to develop presentations for diverse audiences (e.g., diploma students, graduate students, industry stakeholders, producers) and to excel at knowledge transfer and extension is vital to the role.  They will join a world-class team of faculty members in the Department of Plant Agriculture conducting research in sustainable cropping practices.  Other faculty include weed scientists, as well as others working in the areas of plant breeding and genetics, entomology, pathology, crop physiology, post-harvest physiology, agronomy, and plant-based bioproducts.

Position Requirements:

• A Ph.D. in Agronomy or closely related field
• Demonstrated capacity for teaching excellence at the diploma level and graduate student training
• Strong practical farm-level knowledge of pest management and agronomy practices in field crops
• Capacity to establish and lead an independent, externally-funded research program
• Ability to collaborate and engage with industry and growers to develop practical solutions
• Ability to incorporate relevant, practical on-farm experience into teaching methods

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

University of Guelph: Assistant Professor, Ontario Bean Growers Professorship in Weed Science

Position Description:

The Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph invites applications for a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level for the Ontario Bean Growers Professorship in Weed Science.  This position is located at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus, located in the municipality of Chatham-Kent, 200 km southwest of the University’s main campus in Guelph.

The holder of the Ontario Bean Growers Professorship in Weed Science will develop a cutting-edge research program with a focus on addressing commercially relevant weed management problems in field crops in Ontario, including soybean, corn, edible beans, wheat, and other small grains.  The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching existing and/or new diploma courses and will be actively involved in the supervision of graduate students, both MSc and PhD.  They will join a world-class team of faculty members in the Department of Plant Agriculture conducting research in sustainable cropping practices.  The current faculty includes other weed scientists and others working in the area of plant breeding and genetics, entomology, pathology, crop physiology, post-harvest physiology, agronomy, and plant-based bioproducts.

Position Requirements

• A PhD with a specialization in Weed Science or a closely related field
• Strong research background in the area of weed science, preferably related to field crops
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to develop presentations for diverse audiences (e.g., diploma students, graduate students, industry stakeholders, producers)
• Ability to collaborate and engage with industry and growers to develop practical solutions
• Potential to excel at teaching at the diploma level in weed science as well as in other related disciplines at the diploma, undergraduate, or graduate levels
• Abiltiy to incorporate relevant, practical on-farm experience into teaching method

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

University of Manitoba: Assistant, Associate or Professor (Tenure Track) – Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences

The University of Manitoba invites applications for a Research Chair in Potato Sustainability, a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate or Professor. The Chair’s program will be funded with an investment by a consortium of potato industry stakeholders including growers, processors, potato marketers, sector suppliers, and service providers. The Chair position will be conferred for a five-year term. The Chair’s distribution of work duties will be research (55%), extension and sector engagement (25%), and teaching (20%). The tenure-track position will continue after the term without it being designated as a Chair. The position is expected to commence May 1, 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The Chair will be a faculty member in the Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences (FAFS). FAFS is investing heavily to grow and modernize its horticulture and agronomic research and training capacity. Crop and soil research teams have been renewed by the addition of eleven new tenure-track faculty positions over three years (2020-23) as well as new infrastructure. The potato sector is an important part of Canadian agriculture, representing the fifth largest primary agriculture crop in Canada. Potatoes are Manitoba’s fourth most valuable crop. Most potatoes produced in Manitoba are for processing, though fresh and seed potatoes are also grown. Research and innovation are key to enabling this sector to thrive and remain sustainable. In the 2022 Manitoba Potato Science and Technology Strategy, potato sector stakeholders
presented a bold vision statement: “Make Manitoba Canada’s leader in potato research and innovation”. Following extensive consultation, the key priority areas identified in the Manitoba Strategy were soil productivity, fertility, and health; irrigation and water management; disease and pest management; variety evaluation and management; and storage. One of the primary recommendations in the strategy was to enhance the research and training capacity in potatoes at the University of Manitoba in areas including agronomy, soils, potato quality, and sustainability.

Responsibilities:

The UM Research Chair in Potato Sustainability will be a North American leader in cutting-edge potato research, training, and extension to support a thriving and resilient potato industry in Manitoba and beyond. The Chair will be expected to:

• Develop a research program on sustainable potato production systems that integrates the areas of agronomy, soil health, disease and pest management, in both field production and storage management
• Conduct innovative, collaborative, and applied research to address production challenges and sustainability goals identified by the potato sector 
• Identify current and potential production issues and investigate alternative management strategies
• Participate in knowledge transfer activities targeted to the potato sector, both provincially and nationally
• Effectively train and prepare diploma, undergraduate and graduate students for the job market with skills applicable to sustainable potato production systems 

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Master student in Soil Science – Research Affiliate Program

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Science and Technology Branch Brandon (Manitoba), Winnipeg (Manitoba)
The projected start date is January 2, 2025 with an end date of January 2, 2027 (or depending on the candidate’s availability or needs) with the possibility of full time or part time extension. It is expected that the student will work 15 hours per week.

Duties

The project will require the graduate student to conduct research studies under field and controlled environment conditions; collect, process and analyze plant, soil, and gas samples; collect data from field and controlled environment studies using a range of scientific equipment, tools and methods; enter, verify and analyze data; and report and interpret data in support of the research project.

Work environment

The graduate student will be located part-time at each of the Brandon Research and Development Centre at Brandon, MB and at the University of Manitoba (Soil Science Department) at Winnipeg, MB where the collaborating scientists and planned field and controlled environment studies will be located.

Brandon Research and Development Centre supports innovative research, development, technology and knowledge transfer activities related to the following AAFC Science Sector Strategies, Agro-Ecosystem Resilience, Cereals and Pulses / Oilseeds and Horticulture focusing on developing sustainable and profitable crop production systems, and agro-ecosystems, and new and improved varieties of wheat, oats and barley.

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

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Call for Applications: Editor-in-Chief, Canadian Journal of Plant Science

University of Alberta – Graduate Student Positions
Lentil seeding rates and peaola on-farm trials
Post-doctoral Fellow

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Assistant Professor in Digital Pedology and Pedometrics
Department of Soil Science
College of Agriculture and Bioresources

Applications are invited from qualified individuals for a full-time Assistant or Associate Professor position in Digital Pedology and Pedometrics. The successful candidate will be located in the Department of Soil Science within the College of Agriculture and Bioresources and will report to the Head of the Department of Soil Science. The successful applicant will have primary responsibility for both on-campus, lecture-based courses and potentially off-campus, field-based courses specific to the Digital Ag program. The successful candidate will be responsible for research in pedometrics and digital soil mapping, geographic information systems (GIS), “digital agriculture”, and/or soil carbon and nutrient stewardship. The successful candidate will join a cohort of several new professors hired within the strategic area of Sustainable and Digital Agriculture, a priority research area rich in potential for collaboration, partnership, innovation, and impact. Information about this cluster hire can be found at agbio.usask.ca/agbio-cluster.php.

Students in Environmental Science (EVSC), Renewable Resource Management (RRM) and Soil Science (SLSC) require enhanced skills involving the collection and interpretation of quantitative digital soil information for environmental modelling—skills they will need to solve current and emerging environmental and land management issues. Thus, the successful candidate will be expected to develop new undergraduate- and graduate-level SLSC courses in pedometrics and digital soil mapping. This person may also contribute to the delivery of existing field courses in the RRM and SLSC programs. Research and teaching undertaken by this new faculty member will help ensure we maintain a national leadership role as the premier training institution for pedologists by providing continued excellence in field training with the emerging field of digital soil mapping.

Understanding soil genesis and classification is a key skill that all students in our programs require and by establishing a program in pedometrics the successful candidate will help students develop new skills in the application of mathematical and statistical methods to model the distribution, genesis, and functioning of soils in space and time. As well, it is increasingly critical that a conceptual understanding of soil-landscape relationships be integrated with quantitative landscape models to predict the effects of management-scale changes at regional, provincial, national, and global scales. The application of pedometric methods and digital soil mapping can uniquely position our students to examine environmental issues such as how climate change will impact soil carbon and nutrient stewardship, as well as issues affecting food security such as soil degradation. This new faculty position will provide an excellent opportunity for the successful candidate to attract external funding to lead our Department through their research into a new era of digital soil mapping, soil-landscape modeling, big-data management, machine learning, and data mining.

In addition to establishing and maintaining professional relationships with faculty, staff and students, the candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with others similarly engaged in research with a sustainability focus, and will take a lead role in forging relationships with digital agriculture partners including additional new faculty hires in the digital agriculture cluster, the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS), and across the University of Saskatchewan campus (e.g., Geography, SENS, Computer Science, Engineering). Key stakeholders may include members of the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists, Indigenous communities, non-profit organizations in the region, government, and industry.

Candidates should have completed (or nearly completed) a Ph.D. in an appropriate discipline, such as Soil Science or Pedology. Previous post-secondary teaching experience is essential, as is a demonstrated ability to plan for complex research activities. Candidates should be eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists (https://sia.sk.ca/).

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Assistant Professor – Fruit genetics and Improvement

The Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) invites applications for a faculty position in fruit genetics and improvement. This is a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor. It is anticipated that research will be focused on fruit genetics and breeding of perennial horticulture crops for the northern prairies (haskap, sour cherry, apple, and/or hazelnuts, for example). The successful candidate will have the opportunity to assume a well-established breeding program focused on these crops. The current breeding program has established the most comprehensive haskap collection in the world, which is an excellent resource for breeding and genetics-related research. Through cutting-edge research, the candidate will work to fully realize the potential of genetics and genomics in transforming cultivar development, with a goal of developing and releasing improved varieties of these crops. Integration of conventional and modern genetic and genomic tools and technologies is expected to achieve the goals of the program. Areas of research the successful candidate could pursue include genetic or genomic studies of agronomic traits, biotic and abiotic stress tolerances, physiology and metabolism, etc., in order to complement a breeding program. The candidate will perform outreach duties as required, and publish the research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals. The appointee will be expected to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Department of Plant Sciences, and will be required to supervise M.Sc. and Ph.D. students and mentor post-graduate fellows. Collaboration with local, national and international programs and colleagues is expected. In addition, the individual will establish a rigorous, competitive, and extramurally funded research program that should be eligible for Government of Canada Tri-Council funding.

Qualifications
This position requires a Ph.D. in breeding or genetics (experience with perennial fruit crops is preferred), or a closely related discipline, and a demonstrated understanding of genetics and crop improvement. The candidate must have excellent communication skills and a willingness to participate in outreach activities such as engagement with producers, industry and government, participation on industry committees and advisory boards, and participation in technology transfer and variety commercialization. Post-doctoral experience relevant to the position, with a demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching is preferred. Candidates should be eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists (https://sia.sk.ca/). A proven track record of publications coupled with excellent interpersonal skills, and an ability to establish effective trust-based working relationships are considered essential. The successful candidate will work independently, will work effectively with support staff and as part of collaborative and multi-disciplinary teams. The successful candidate is expected to have an understanding and commitment to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Assistant Professor – Precision Agronomy
University of Saskatchewan – Department of Plant Sciences – College of Agriculture and Bioresources

The Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) invites applications for a
faculty position in precision agronomy. This is a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor.
The preferred candidate will join a cohort of several new professors being hired by the College of
Agriculture and Bioresources within the strategic area of Sustainable and Digital Agriculture, a priority
research area rich in potential for collaboration, partnership, innovation, and impact. Information about
this cluster hire can be found at agbio.usask.ca/agbio-cluster.php.

The candidate will be expected to develop a research program in precision and digital agriculture to
increase the productivity, sustainability and profitability of dryland cropping systems. Several million
acres in Saskatchewan are regularly managed with digital agriculture technologies by commercial
precision agriculture providers. Remotely sensed data is now available to monitor cropland with a
variety of sensors and prescriptions for crop inputs are developed. It is expected the candidate will work
to improve the understanding of spatial and temporal variability in dryland cropping systems by using
remote sensing and autonomous tools with a goal of optimizing crop management. Potential areas of
research could include the use of digital technologies to inform sustainable crop management decisions,
improved prediction and management of crop production and soil management, pest management, soil-water relations, and crop nutrient dynamics. The candidate will perform outreach duties as required and publish the research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals. The appointee will be expected to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Department of Plant Sciences and will be required to supervise M.Sc. and Ph.D. students and mentor post-graduate fellows. Collaboration with local producer groups, as well as national and international programs and colleagues is expected. In addition, the
individual will establish a rigorous, competitive, and extramurally funded research program that should
be eligible for Government of Canada Tri-Council funding. The successful candidate will have the
opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and have access to facilities from across campus including
the Global Institute for Food Security, Canadian Light Source, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada,
National Research Council of Canada, as well as those of industry partners.

Qualifications
This position requires a Ph.D. in either agronomy, crop science, soils science, remote sensing,
environmental science, or a closely related discipline. The ideal candidate would have demonstrated
experience in precision and digital technologies such as (but not limited to) remote sensing, yield
mapping, proximally sensed crop and soil data, simulation models and machine learning techniques. The
candidate must have excellent communication skills and show potential to participate in outreach
activities aimed western Canadian producers. Expected outreach will include activities such as
engagement with producers, industry and government, participation on industry committees and
advisory boards, and participation in technology transfer and variety commercialization. Post-doctoral
experience relevant to the position, and a demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching is
preferred. Candidates should be eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists
(https://sia.sk.ca/). A proven track record of publications coupled with excellent interpersonal skills, and
an ability to establish effective trust-based working relationships are considered essential. The
successful candidate will work independently but also effectively with support staff and others as part of
collaborative and multi-disciplinary teams. Consequently, a high level of collegiality and professionalism
both within the department and beyond is expected. The successful candidate is expected to have an
understanding and commitment to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Science and Technology Branch
Agassiz (British Columbia)

M.Sc. or Ph.D. Student – Weed and Soil Management – Research Affiliate Program

Duties
Conduct field and laboratory research aiming to 1) develop optimized double cropping practices to achieve the highest value winter malting barley and summer field vegetable production and 2) investigate and quantify the effects of the double cropping practices on weed population dynamics and early indicators of soil carbon sequestration.

Specific duties will include:
– Contributing to experimental design and research protocol preparation
– Identifying weed species using appropriate methodologies/tools
– Herbicide treatment preparation and application
– Soil sample collection/processing and analysis
– Crop yield and quality assessment
– Data analyses

Work environment
The student will conduct graduate research in-person at the AAFC Agassiz Research and Development Centre (Agassiz, BC) while conducting academic studies under co-supervision of Drs. Jichul Bae, Ben Thomas and Robert Nurse. The research will be conducted in both field and laboratory settings to investigate how double cropping sequences can be optimized to control weeds and enhance soil health.

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: 1

For more information, including information on how to apply, please view the complete job posting.

University of Saskatchewan

Industry Chair in Integrated Forage Management and Utilization

Western Canada is home to over 96% of Canada’s tame and native pasture. At nearly 45 million
acres, these forage resources underpin the economic sustainability of over 43,000 beef cattle
operations generating 88% of Canada’s cow-calf production and 79% of Canada’s feedlot
production. In addition to providing an affordable high-quality grazing and feed resource for
the beef and dairy sectors, forage systems are increasingly recognized as providing critically
valuable agro-ecosystem benefits. In order for the full benefits of forages to be realized, it is
critical to bridge interdisciplinary boundaries and study the interactions among animals, plants,
soils, economics and ecosystems.

Applications are invited from qualified individuals for a full-time (12-month) continuing status
position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, jointly held in the Departments of
Animal and Poultry Science and Plant Sciences (primary academic home to be determined
following the interview). This industry chair is jointly funded by the Beef Cattle Research Council,
the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, and the
Global Institute for Food Security. As an industry-funded Chair, the position is approximately
50% research, 20% teaching, 20% extension and 10% administration.

The successful candidate will join a strong, well-established multidisciplinary team with expertise
in forage breeding, rangeland ecology, environmental sustainability, feed processing and all
aspects of beef production, including genetics, nutrition, management, welfare, toxicology,
metabolism and physiology. The successful candidate will bridge these disciplinary boundaries
and lead systems-based forage and pasture management and utilization research that considers
interactions among animals, plants, soils, economics, and ecosystem services.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Job Title: Research and Extension Intern

Department: Lakehead University Agriculture and Research Station (LUARS)

Campus: Thunder Bay, ON

Status: Full Time, Contract (4 months)

Job Category: Research

About this Job

Who is eligible? Unemployed or underemployed youth (under the age of 30) who have graduated with a degree or diploma in agriculture or a related field from a post-secondary institution within the last three years, are legally entitled to work in Canada (Canadian citizens or immigrants or persons with a valid work permit), and have not been previously employed under a FedNor Youth Internship funding agreement, or other federal or provincial internship with pay for a period of six (6) months or more. An MSc may be preferred. The position is for one year from the date of hiring. Candidates must have reliable transportation and a valid Driver’s Licence.

Qualifications: Successful candidates will have knowledge of laying out experiments, weighing fertilizers and seeding crops, plot maintenance/crop care including application of fertilizers, plant growth regulators and pesticides, small plots harvesting, grain/seed cleaning, data recording, entry, analysis and compilation Employment Opportunity of the Annual Research Report, minor purchases and general cleanliness and maintenance of lab and other buildings.

Working Conditions

Salary including benefits: $44,000.00 for one year. Work week will be from Monday to Friday – 40 hours per week. This full-time position is partially funded by FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program.

For more information, including information on how to apply, please view the complete job posting.

Job Title: Agriculture Technician

Department: Lakehead University Agriculture and Research Station (LUARS)

Campus: Thunder Bay, ON

Status: Full Time, Contract (8 months with possibility of renewal) April to November 2024

About this Job: The Lakehead University Agricultural Research Station (LUARS) is seeking a contract Agricultural Technician to join their team. The duties include but are not limited to:

Establish, maintain, and harvest agricultural research plots including the following main tasks:

• Land preparation using disks, rototillers and cultivators with tractors;
• Calculating and weighing fertilizers at different rates of nutrients application and fertilizers application with tractor and manually;
• Seeding with a seed drill;
• Weighing seeds and Seeding with a seed drill;
• Trimming plots with hand operated and tractor operated rototiller;
• Harvesting crops with sickles, Suzie Binder and Forage Harvester;
• Threshing grain and seed crops with a thresher;
• Grain cleaning and recording grain observations such as 1000 K weight, Hectoliter weight;
• Collecting, drying and shipping samples.

Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have a Diploma in agricultural sciences, or a High School graduate with a minimum of two to three years of relevant experience. Farming background is preferred. Skills required include completion of the Grower Pesticide Safety Course, First Aid and CPR certificates, valid Ontario Class G driver’s license and WHMIS. Computer knowledge including Windows would be an asset. Candidates must be legally entitled to work in Canada. Remuneration will be commensurate to relevant experience plus benefits. The contract is renewable during next year(s) for 8 months (April to November) every year depending upon employee performance and funds availability.

For more information, including information on how to apply, please view the complete job posting.

Resilience of Cropping Systems and Soil Health in Western Canada (2 PhD Graduate Student Positions Available)
Timeline for applications: until filled
Desirable timelines for beginning the program: January 2024 or May 2024

Overall research summary: A large collaborative cropping system research project was established in 2018 to evaluate crop rotation philosophies for resiliency and soil health through a systems approach. This is a collaboration between Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the University of Alberta, University of Saskatchewan, and seven experimental sites in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. This research is funded through Integrated Crop Agronomy Cluster phase II (2023-2028) as part of the Canadian Agricultural Partnership program. This 10-yr crop rotation study is a continuation of the ongoing crop rotations, including diversified, canola or pulse crop intensified, high risk, market driven, and soil health enhanced cropping systems, in addition to a control cropping system. Successful candidates will have the great opportunity to work with a diverse group of researchers across scientific disciplines at several prestigious institutions.

Research projects: Two PhD research projects are available to investigate contrasting cropping systems across major Canadian Prairie ecosites to determine impacts on agroecosystem resiliency and soil health. The overarching objective of these projects is to determine the best (more productive, sustainable, resilient, regenerative) cropping systems.

A guaranteed minimum stipend of $28,000 – $30,000 for four years will be provided. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for the many graduate scholarships available.

Requirements: Candidates must have a MSc degree with a minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0, or complete its requirements before admission, in agronomy, soil science, crop science, plant science, agroecology, or other related disciplines. Candidates must show willingness and availability to work outdoors in agricultural settings. A valid driver license and clean driving record/abstract are necessary, as travel to various field sites will be necessary during the growing season. Extended hours and/or overnight may be also necessary occasionally for timely completion of fieldwork or extension activities. In addition, lifting up to 30 lbs may be required.

For more information including details on the research projects and how to apply, please download the complete posting PDF.

McGill Tenure-Track Faculty Position
Open to rank of Assistant Professor in Weed Biology and Integrated Weed Management
Faculty: Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Department/School: Plant Science

Position Description: The Department of Plant Science of McGill University’s Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
invites applications for a tenure track position at the level of Assistant Professor, in the area of weed biology
and integrated weed management. McGill’s Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is located on the Macdonald Campus, 30 km
from the city of Montreal, where there is a concentration of life sciences and biotechnology companies. The Campus comprises 650 hectares of farm and forested lands, experimental field stations and state-of-the-art student learning facilities (library and computer laboratories). Additional information concerning McGill, its Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Plant Science can be found on their respective web sites (www.mcgill.ca,www.mcgill.ca/macdonald, www.mcgill.ca/plant).

Job Duties:  The successful candidate is expected to develop a research program with an emphasis on understanding weed biology/ecology in order to develop integrated weed management systems for agronomic and/or horticultural crops. The research program should address how to reduce weed pressure while reducing environmental harms and include state of the art technologies in weed management. The incumbent will be responsible for teaching the courses “Pesticides in Agriculture” and “Weed Biology and Control”, which are core courses in the Faculty’s undergraduate program, as well as in graduate courses within her/his area of research expertise. Participation in Departmental, Faculty, and University committees and with provincial, national and international organizations is expected.

For more information, including qualification requirements and how to apply, please download the posting PDF in English or French.

Resilience of Cropping Systems in Western Canada – PhD Graduate Student Position

University of Saskatchewan

A PhD graduate student position available.

Highly qualified candidates are encouraged to apply for this PhD position.

Timeline for applications: until filled. Review of applications will start October 10^th 2023.

Desirable timelines for beginning the program: January 2024 or May 2024

Project summary: This research project will be evaluating contrasting cropping systems across major Canadian Prairie ecosites to determine impacts on agroecosystem resiliency and soil health. The objective of the project encompasses the determination of the best (more productive, sustainable, resilient, regenerative) cropping systems in each of the ecozones within the Canadian Prairie using a wide array of system indicators such as productivity, resource use efficiency, soil health, diseases, weeds, carbon footprint, economic returns, and resilience. This project is funded through the integrated crop agronomy cluster phase II (2023-2028). The research activities are an extension of the ongoing crop rotation initiative that started in 2018 at seven sites of Canadian Prairies through the integrated crop agronomy cluster phase I. The study cropping systems consist of diversified, canola or pulse crop intensified, high risk, market driven, and soil health enhanced cropping systems, in addition to a control cropping system. The primary objective of this Ph.D. project is to quantify the resilience of cropping systems through 10-year crop rotation study at multiple sites. In addition, greenhouse trials may be required to assess crop resilience to biotic and abiotic stress. This is a collaborative project between Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the University of Saskatchewan, and seven experimental sites in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Support and guidance in developing an impactful research project will be provided by the WGRF Research Chair in Integrated Agronomy Dr. Maryse Bourgault at the University of Saskatchewan and Dr. Kui Liu at AAFC Swift Current. Knowledge and interest in cropping systems modeling and resilience assessment of agroecosystems are valuable assets.

The successful candidate will complete coursework requirements at the University of Saskatchewan, in Saskatoon, as part of the degree program. Travel to experimental sites during the growing seasons, and relocation to Swift Current Research and Development Centre (AAFC) for the final year of the degree, tentatively, are expected. The successful candidate will have the great opportunity to work with a diverse group of researchers across scientific disciplines at both prestigious institutions.

A guaranteed stipend of $25,000 – $28,000 for four years will be provided, and students are encouraged to apply for the many scholarships available.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Research Chair In Lentil And Faba Bean Breeding

The Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan

The Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) invites applications for a Chair in lentil and faba bean breeding. This is a continuing status (tenure-track) position at the Assistant Professor level in plant breeding and crop genetics, and which will be housed within the Crop Development Centre (CDC). The successful candidate will assume a well-established and productive breeding program that to date has released 40 lentil and 5 faba bean varieties. The primary focus of the position will be on lentil breeding, and secondarily on faba bean breeding. The plant breeder will develop and release improved varieties to serve the needs of western Canadian agriculture and perform related outreach duties as required. It is expected that the successful candidate will integrate conventional and modern breeding tools and technologies to develop innovative approaches to achieving the goals of the program, including establishing a competitive and extramurally funded research program. Some of the research conducted should be eligible for Government of Canada Tri-Council funding. Collaboration with local, national, and international programs and stakeholders is expected. Research should complement the breeding program with studies in related disciplines, which could include genomics, phenomics, agronomy, biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, and seed quality, with the findings published in leading peer-reviewed journals. The appointee will also teach at the undergraduate and/or graduate level in the Department of Plant Sciences and will be required to supervise M.Sc. and Ph.D. students and mentor post-graduate fellows.

Salary bands for this position for the 2023-2024 academic year are as follows: Assistant Professor: $99,945 to $120,101. This position includes a comprehensive benefits package which includes a dental, health and extended vision care plan, pension plan, life insurance (compulsory and voluntary), academic long-term disability, sick leave, travel insurance, death benefits, an employee assistance program, a professional expense allowance, and a flexible health and wellness spending program.

QUALIFICATIONS

This position requires a Ph.D. in plant breeding and genetics, or a closely related discipline, and a demonstrated understanding of plant breeding and crop improvement. The candidate must have excellent communication skills and show potential to participate in outreach activities aimed at lentil and faba bean producers. Expected outreach activities could include engagement with producers, industry and government, participation on industry committees and advisory boards, and participation in technology transfer and variety commercialization. At least one year of post-doctoral experience relevant to the position, with a demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching is preferred.  Candidates should be eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists (https://sia.sk.ca/). A proven track record of publications coupled with excellent interpersonal skills, and an ability to establish effective trust-based working relationships are considered essential.  The successful candidate will possess a high level of collegiality and professionalism both within the department and beyond. The position will require the candidate to work independently, but also effectively with support staff and as part of collaborative and multi-disciplinary teams. The successful candidate is expected to have an understanding and commitment to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF.

Position Title / Rank: Assistant Professor, Grain Farmers of Ontario Professorship in Field Crop Pathology
Department: Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph

Position Description:
The Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph invites applications for a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level for the Grain Farmers of Ontario Professorship in Field Crop Pathology. This position is located at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus, located in the municipality of Chatham-Kent, 200 km southwest of the University’s main campus in Guelph.

Position Requirements
• A PhD in Plant Pathology or a closely related field
• Strong research background in plant pathology
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to develop presentations for diverse audiences (e.g., diploma
students, graduate students, industry stakeholders, producers)
• Ability to collaborate and engage with industry and growers to develop practical solutions
• Potential to excel at teaching at the diploma level in field crop pathology as well as in other related disciplines at the
diploma, undergraduate, or graduate levels
• Ability to incorporate relevant, practical on-farm experience into teaching methods

The holder of the Grain Farmers of Ontario Professorship in Field Crop Pathology will develop a cutting-edge research program with a focus on addressing commercially-relevant problems in Field crops in Ontario, including corn, soybean, wheat, and other small grains. They will join a world-class team of faculty members in the Department of Plant Agriculture conducting research in sustainable cropping practices. The current faculty includes three other plant pathologists, as well as others working in the areas of plant breeding and genetics, weed science, crop physiology, post-harvest physiology, agronomy, and plant-based bioproducts.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF or visit the University of Guelph Faculty Recruitment website.

Position Title / Rank: Assistant Professor in Bean Breeding and Computational Biology

Department: Plant Agriculture

Position Description:

The Department of Plant Agriculture, Ontario Agricultural College at the University of Guelph invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position in Plant Breeding, at the Assistant Professor level. This position is located at the Guelph campus and requires a PhD in Plant Breeding, Plant Genetics, or closely related field.

The successful candidate will demonstrate teaching excellence in plant genetics and plant breeding, including quantitative genetics and genomics, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. They will supervise MSc and PhD students in their thesis research, and also contribute to instruction in a course-based Masters program in Plant Agriculture. The chosen candidate will manage an existing, successful breeding program developing commercially viable edible bean cultivars adapted to the Ontario production environment, and will develop and lead a comprehensive, externally funded research program.

The successful candidate will join a world-class, collaborative faculty in the Department of Plant Agriculture, with members conducting cutting-edge research in the disciplines of plant breeding and genetics, weed science, plant pathology, soil science, agronomy, plant physiology, plant conservation, and plant-based bioproducts. Salary is negotiable and commensurate with qualifications. The department will provide competitive research start-up funds; other research support and subsidized access to research facilities is available through the Research Alliance Agreement between the University of Guelph and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

For more information, including how to apply, please download the posting PDF or visit the University of Guelph Faculty Recruitment website.