Research Assistant 2

McGill University; Stewart; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution is seeking a candidate to contribute to interdisciplinary research on biodiversity and circular economy strategies. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree and proficiency in analytical tools like GIS and LCA. This full-time position is based in Stewart Biology Bldg, Quebec. Strong bilingual skills in English and French are essential.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in environmental science, ecology, geography, engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience conducting research in an academic, applied, or interdisciplinary context.
• Familiarity with biodiversity-related data, indicators, or assessment tools.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to case studies assessing circular economy impacts on biodiversity.
• Develop indicators to evaluate biodiversity impacts.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to integrate biodiversity into circular economy initiatives.

Skills

Strong academic background in ecology

Proficiency in Life Cycle Assessment

Excellent analytical skills

Bilingual in English and French

Education

Master’s degree in environmental science

Tools

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Job description

Overview

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Hiring Unit: Department of Biology (Professor Andrew Gonzalez)

Position Summary:

• Contributes to interdisciplinary case studies assessing the impacts of circular economy strategies (e.g., wood recovery, paper recycling, agroecology) on biodiversity in Quebec.
• Supports the development and adaptation of indicators to evaluate biodiversity impacts, including the use of Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) and other ecological metrics.
• Applies analytical tools such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), spatial data (GIS), and/or environmental modeling to assess circular strategies.
• Collaborates with academic, governmental, and industrial partners to integrate biodiversity considerations into circular economy initiatives.
• Participates in the synthesis and communication of findings through reports, presentations, and academic publications.

Qualifications

• Strong academic background in ecology, environmental science, geography, engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree completed or equivalent).
• Proficiency in at least one of the following: Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), environmental modeling, or ecological data analysis.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and writing skills in both English and French.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including academic, governmental, and industrial partners.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret, and synthesize scientific information.
• Proficiency in French and English (spoken and written).

Education/Experience

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in environmental science, ecology, geography, engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience conducting research in an academic, applied, or interdisciplinary context.
• Familiarity with biodiversity-related data, indicators, or assessment tools.
• Experience in interdisciplinary or applied research related to biodiversity, circular economy, or sustainability.

Details

• Location: This position is located in Montreal, Quebec and the work for this position is expected to be performed in Quebec.
• Knowledge of French and English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level # (4) qualifier on a scale of 0-4.
• Hourly Salary: $31.44
• Hours per Week: 35 (Full time)
• Position Start Date: 2025-08-27
• Position End Date: 2027-03-30
• Deadline to Apply: 2025-09-17
• Supervisor: Professor
• Location: Stewart Biology Bldg

Affiliations

• This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.

Equity, Diversity and Accommodation

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [e-mail].