Research Program Manager

Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in agricultural research is seeking a Research Program Manager to oversee funding activities for crop research. The candidate will manage proposals, collaborate with institutions, and contribute to the decision-making process. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and substantial experience in agricultural research.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with significant knowledge of field crop agriculture.
• At least five years of work experience in agriculture research.
• Registered or required to become registered with the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists.

Responsibilities

• Manage and administer research funding activities.
• Collaborate with funding agencies and manage research proposals.
• Support decision-making processes and program development.

Skills

Knowledge of field crop agriculture in Western Canada

Strong agricultural science background

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Strong analytical capability

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Negotiation skills

Planning and organization

Leadership and initiative

Education

Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or science

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Computer office software programs

Job description

Research Program Manager

This position is responsible for managing and administering the research funding activities of the Western Grains Research Foundation. The position is located in Saskatoon, SK.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop, manage and administer crop research funding programs and

Typical Duties:

1. Collaborate with funding agencies and partners to identify research priorities, review proposals, and develop funding agreements whenever possible.
2. Interact with research institutions to negotiate and draft research funding agreements, receive and assess reports and arrange for payments.
3. Administer shared files and spreadsheets for research funding agreements to support WGRF’s financial and program reporting requirements, contract obligations, and communication and evaluation needs.

2. Provide support for WGRF programming and decision-making
Typical Duties:

1. Receive and screen Letter of Intent/Proposals and provide background information to support WGRF decision making processes.
2. Gather and analyze information and provide recommendations to support the development of WGRF programs, policies and initiatives.
3. Provide support for the communication of research statistics and
4. Support WGRF decision making processes by developing meeting agendas, gathering material, preparing briefing notes, providing reports and recording minutes.
5. Implement Board decisions and Committee recommendations as assigned by the Executive

3. Work as part of the WGRF team, interacting effectively with WGRF staff, Board and Committee members, member organizations, funding agencies and research
Typical Duties:

1. Interact as required with WGRF staff, Board and Committees to support them in performing their responsibilities;
2. Back up other WGRF staff in their absence as requested by the Executive Director;
3. Effectively represent WGRF at meetings/events and contribute to WGRF’s role as a leading funder of field crop research.
4. Adhere to Board decisions, and WGRF policies and
5. Keep up to date on research priorities and crop production
6. Maintain professional development training to meet Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists requirements, in consultation with the Executive Director.
7. Develop an annual work plan and contribute to the development of a staff management

Note: This is a general description of the responsibilities and duties of the Research Project Managers. Further specific duties may be assigned by the Executive Director after consultation with the employee, acting in the interests of WGRF.

Competencies Required for the Position:

• knowledge of field crop agriculture in Western Canada
• knowledge of agricultural research institutions
• strong agricultural science background
• strong verbal and written communication skills
• ability to work independently and as part of a team
• excellence in planning and organization
• strong analytical capability
• strong negotiation skills
• attention to detail
• strong interpersonal skills
• willingness to demonstrate leadership and initiative
• adaptable to changing circumstances and priorities
• commitment to a positive workplace culture that is tolerant, patient, and respectful of others
• dedication to a strong and consistent work effort
• competent with computer office software programs
• familiarity with legal contracts

Education and Work Experience:
The knowledge and skills required for the position will most likely have been obtained through a Bachelor’s degree (and preferably a Master’s degree) in agriculture or science with significant knowledge of field crop agriculture in Western Canada and at least five years work experience in agriculture research and/or research program management.

Contact Name: Wayne Thompson
Email: [e-mail]
Phone number: 306-975-2081

NOTE: “Applicants must be registered or need to become registered with the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists as defined by The Agrologists Act”
: Please include a cover letter along with the resume.

Closing Date: June 27th, 2025