Post-doctoral Research Scholar for Novel Microbial Biocontrol Product Development

Kwantlen Polytechnic University; City of Langley; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution is seeking a Post-doctoral Fellow for research on microbial biopesticides. This role involves managing trials, lab studies, and communicating with collaborators. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in a related field and have strong analytical and communication skills. The position offers a competitive hourly salary of $30. Join a dynamic team to contribute to applied research for ecosystem health and resilience in Metro Vancouver.

Qualifications

• Must hold a Ph.D. in a relevant field.
• Strong writing and reporting skills communicable in research findings.
• Experience with R software for statistical analysis.

Responsibilities

• Execute or supervise lab and field experiments.
• Plan research with industry partners.
• Communicate project progress with team and partners.
• Prepare reports and presentations as required.

Skills

Verbal and written communication skills in English

Statistical analysis software (R)

Time management

Problem-solving skills

Experimental design knowledge

Education

Ph.D. in Horticulture, Plant Biology, Agriculture or related field

Job description

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

This role reports to: Dr. Deborah Henderson

SUMMARY

The research team at Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Institute for Sustainable Horticulture (ISH) conducts applied research to produce and develop novel bioproducts, novel growing systems and agritech research to support ecosystem health and resilience. To learn more about our research, please browse our website at https://www.kpu.ca/ish

This position will commence when the appropriate candidate is selected and provides a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Post-doctoral Fellow will work directly on several aspects of the development of novel microbial biopesticides including managing trials, lab studies, communicating with field collaborators and recording and reporting progress towards milestones with the industry partner. This individual will help lead and support applied research projects under the supervision and direction of the PI, and in collaboration with ISH research staff. Where appropriate, they may also help supervise and train student researchers working in the ISH laboratories, greenhouse, or in the field as applicable. They will contribute to project planning and design, perform greenhouse, laboratory and field tasks, and communicate results to the PI, faculty, staff, and industry partners.

This is a Mitacs-funded position. The successful candidate must eligible for a Post Doctoral position at KPU (within less than five years from the date of graduation from a PhD program) and approved by Mitacs. Please see link below for the eligibility requirements of the Mitacs Accelerate program. https://www.mitacs.ca/our-programs/accelerate-core-students-postdocs/

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Execute or supervise lab and field experiments to establish efficacy, rates and protocols for use of the new biopesticides
• Plan research to generate other data, either at KPU or with other collaborators, required to bring the new products to end users.
• Meet with industry partners for project planning and design.
• Communicate regularly with ISH's senior leadership, staff, and undergraduate student researchers on project progress.
• Execute experiments required for research projects, including quality control, and troubleshooting when necessary.
• Gather, organize, and maintain experimental data and records for lab, greenhouse and field studies.
• Prepare reports and presentations, independently and under the direction of the ISH's senior leadership.
• Provide on-site supervision and training to undergraduate student researchers and research staff, when required.
• Generate and update standard operating procedures for routine and new developments, in collaboration with the greenhouse and laboratory Research Coordinators and/or senior research staff.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Hold a Ph.D. in Horticulture, Plant Biology, Agriculture, Plant Physiology or related field.
• Good verbal and written skills in English, knowledge of experimental design and analysis, and computer literacy and application.
• Exceptional writing and reporting skills to effectively communicate research findings.
• Experience in R software, or similar software, for statistical analysis.
• Excellent time management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Well-organized, energetic, accurate, and flexible in approaching tasks.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to set priorities, work under pressure, deliver high-quality products, and meet deadlines.

SALARY INFORMATION

Anticipated hourly pay rate: $30