Research Assistant II - Population Medicine

University of Guelph; Guelph; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Guelph's Department of Population Medicine invites applications for a Field Research Technician to support on-farm dairy health research. You will visit commercial dairy farms, collect data and biological samples, and help with laboratory processing under supervision.

The role emphasizes attention to detail, safety when handling cattle, and timely data management. Travel to farms 3–5 days per week is expected, with early mornings and variable weather conditions.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Agriculture, Animal Health Technology, Veterinary Technology, or a related field.
• Knowledge of dairy cattle production, management, and housing systems.
• Demonstrated ability to safely handle and work with adult dairy cattle.
• Experience collecting blood samples from dairy cattle.
• Valid Ontario Class G driver's licence with ability to travel regularly to dairy farms.
• Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct on-farm visits to commercial dairy farms to collect research data and biological samples.
• Safely handle and restrain adult dairy cattle during sampling and data collection activities.
• Collect blood samples and maintain accurate records of observations and research data.
• Process blood samples, including centrifuging, serum separation, labeling, and preparation for laboratory analysis.
• Coordinate farm visits and research vehicle schedules.
• Work collaboratively with faculty, graduate students, technicians, and research assistants on multiple projects.
• Ensure research protocols are followed accurately and consistently.
• Assist with laboratory procedures, including ELISA assay kits and plate analyses when required.
• Enter and maintain research data in computer databases.
• Communicate with participating dairy producers to arrange project visits and sampling schedules.
• Maintain inventory of research and laboratory supplies.
• Assist with ordering supplies and coordinating project logistics.
• Support project administration and routine clerical activities as needed.

Skills

Dairy cattle handling

Organizational skills

Communication

Record-keeping

Education

Diploma in Agriculture/Animal Health Technology/Veterinary Technology (or related field)

BSc in Agriculture/Animal Science/Veterinary Science (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Location: Guelph, ON, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: OVC Academic

Requisition ID: 2766

Department: Population Medicine

This position is classified under the Grant and Trust Administrative & Technical Group

Temporary full-time from 10/01/2026 to 07/30/2027

Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose

The Department of Population Medicine is seeking a motivated and organized Field Research Technician to support innovative dairy health management research projects. This position offers a unique opportunity to work directly with dairy producers, researchers, graduate students, and industry partners while contributing to meaningful research that advances animal health and productivity.

Duties And Responsibilities

Field Research and Sample Collection (90%)

• Conduct on-farm visits to commercial dairy farms to collect research data and biological samples.
• Safely handle and restrain adult dairy cattle during sampling and data collection activities.
• Collect blood samples and maintain accurate records of observations and research data.
• Process blood samples, including centrifuging, serum separation, labeling, and preparation for laboratory analysis.
• Coordinate farm visits and research vehicle schedules.
• Work collaboratively with faculty, graduate students, technicians, and research assistants on multiple projects.
• Ensure research protocols are followed accurately and consistently.
• Assist with laboratory procedures, including running ELISA assay kits and plate analyses when required.

Research Support and Administration (10%)

• Enter and maintain research data in computer databases.
• Communicate with participating dairy producers to arrange project visits and sampling schedules.
• Maintain inventory of research and laboratory supplies.
• Assist with ordering supplies and coordinating project logistics.
• Support project administration and routine clerical activities as needed.

Requirements

• Diploma in Agriculture, Animal Health Technology, Veterinary Technology, or a related field.
• Knowledge of dairy cattle production, management, and housing systems.
• Demonstrated ability to safely handle and work with adult dairy cattle.
• Experience collecting blood samples from dairy cattle.
• Valid Ontario Class G driver's licence with the ability to travel regularly to dairy farms.
• Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• BSc in Agriculture, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience with DairyComp 305.
• Previous laboratory experience, particularly ELISA assays and sample processing.
• Experience coordinating projects involving multiple stakeholders and schedules.

Working Conditions

This role involves extensive time on commercial dairy farms and requires:

• Frequent travel to farms, typically 3 to 5 visits per week.
• Work in varying weather conditions and barn environments.
• Early morning starts and occasional work outside regular business hours.
• Working around large animals and farm equipment.

Employee Type: Temporary

Classification: Grant/ Trust fund position, Band GTAT - Band B

GTAT (Grant & Trust Administrative and Technical) Salary Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 08/10/2026

Close Date: 09/04/2026