Molecular Technician, Plant Sciences

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bennett Lab at the University of Saskatchewan, Department of Plant Sciences, invites applications for a Molecular Technician to support fixed-term maternity leave coverage. The role focuses on DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation of soil and insect samples, with additional plant and soil analyses.

Collaboration across groups is essential. Minimum requirements include an MSc in a relevant field and strong English communication.

Qualifications

• MSc in ecology, agriculture, microbiology, soil science, entomology, or a related field.
• Experience with DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation.
• Ability to coordinate sample collection across multiple research groups.

Responsibilities

• Conduct DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation for soil and insect samples.
• Perform other measurements on plant and soil samples (e.g., NIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis).
• Coordinate sample collection and pre-processing across multiple research groups.
• Communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Education

MSc in ecology

MSc in agriculture

MSc in microbiology

MSc in soil science

MSc in entomology

Tools

DNA extraction

DNA library preparation

Sequencing

Job description

Molecular Technician, Plant Sciences

The Bennett Lab at the University of Saskatchewan, Department of Plant Sciences is looking for a Molecular Technician to join our diverse group on a fixed-term contract to cover maternity leave.

Primary Purpose

The successful individual will join a set of highly collaborative, and well-funded projects exploring multi-trophic interactions in grassland ecosystems and identifying management interventions that can enhance the associated ecosystem services.

Nature of Work

Our group’s focus in these projects will be on understanding how the species and genetic composition of plant assemblages influence soil microbial communities and the consequences of those relationships for multiple ecosystem services. We will explore these questions using observational studies, and field and greenhouse experiments.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities

The technician will be responsible for conducting sample processing, primarily for DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation of soil and insect samples, but also for other measurements on plant and soil samples (e.g., NIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis). The successful applicant will be expected to coordinate sample collection and pre-processing among multiple research groups. As such, strong interpersonal and organizational skills will be needed.

Required Education & Experience

An MSc in ecology, agriculture, microbiology, soil science, entomology, or another relevant field, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. This experience must include DNA extraction & purification, and DNA library preparation for sequencing.

Other Desired Experience

Experience with high throughput extraction protocols, long-read sequencing, and bioinformatics. Experience with NIR spectroscopy and elemental analysis.

Skills

Candidates must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English. This position requires motivated, reliable and well-organized individuals able to work in a multi-disciplinary group environment.

• Department: Plant Sciences


• Status: Term 1 year


• Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union


• Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0


• Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $23.53 - 32.94 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.


• Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 5


• Posted Date: 8/21/2026


• Closing Date: 9/11/2026


• Number of Openings: 1


• Work Location: On Campus

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 us for assistance.