Research Scientist – Botany

Canadian Society of Zoologists; Outaouais; On-site; CAD 89,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

The Canadian Museum of Nature is seeking an innovative Research Scientist in Botany (vascular plants) to conceive, design and lead an independent research program. The role focuses on systematics and taxonomy with a special emphasis on Canada, to publish research and enhance the National Herbarium of Canada collections.

Collaboration with staff across public programs and exhibits is expected. Applicants should hold a doctoral degree in Botany or related field, with strong publication history and

Qualifications

• English and French are essential
• Bilingual non-imperative: CBC (definition)
• Experience in publishing peer-reviewed research
• Experience in designing, leading and conducting collections-based research on vascular plants
• Experience using herbarium collections to support research

Responsibilities

• Conceive, design and lead an independent and collaborative collections-based research program in systematics and taxonomy or a related discipline.
• Publish scientific research and contribute to knowledge generation.
• Support the development, use and scientific value of the CMN’s botanical collections.
• Engage in outreach and use media to promote botanical research to the public.

Education

Doctoral degree in Botany or related area

Job description

Thursday, July 30, 2026 12:00 a.m.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 11:59 p.m.

Job Type

Research Scientist/Associate

Description

MRS01 - $88,533 to $106,852 per year

Permanent Full-time position

Work Location: Natural Heritage Campus (NHC) - Gatineau, QC

Selection process number: 2090-CMN-26-OC-024

Your place at the Museum

We value diversity and believe we benefit from working in a place where everyone feels included and where the unique qualities and strengths inherent in a diverse workforce are combined. We welcome applications from persons who may identify as a member of one or more other equity seeking groups (for e.g. women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+, religious or cultural minority).

You have a place at the Museum!

About the position

The Canadian Museum of Nature (CMN) is seeking an innovative Research Scientist in Botany (vascular plants) to conceive, design and lead an independent and collaborative collections-based research program in systematics and taxonomy or a closely related discipline, with a special focus on Canada. The incumbent will publish scientific research; support the development, use and scientific value of the CMN’s botanical collections housed in the National Herbarium of Canada; and collaborate with museum staff, including teams involved in public programs and exhibit development. The incumbent will also undertake significant outreach and use a range of media to promote botanical research at the CMN to the public in the National Capital Region, across Canada, and internationally.

Working at the museum means

• Contributing to an engaging mission as well as exciting projects and challenges
• An inclusive, friendly and safe work environment
• A competitive salary established by collective agreements
• Access to federal public service group insurance and pension plans

Eligibility criteria

This position is open to all Employees of the Canadian Museum of Nature and any members of the public who meet the qualifications below.

Candidates must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

Education and training

Graduation with a doctoral degree from a recognized post-secondary institution in Botany or a related area, with a specialization in the study of vascular plants.

Applications from persons enrolled in a doctoral program but who have yet to complete it will be considered. However, the thesis must have been defended and the doctoral degree awarded before appointment.

Language requirements

• English and French are essential
• Bilingual non-imperative: CBC (definition)

Experience

• Experience in designing, leading and conducting collections-based research on vascular plants in the fields of systematics, taxonomy or closely related disciplines.
• Experience in identifying, documenting and interpreting vascular plant diversity using morphological, molecular and/or other scientific approaches.
• Experience in using herbarium collections and specimens to support scientific research, biodiversity studies, taxonomy, collection development and knowledge generation.
• Experience in publishing peer-reviewed scientific research
• Experience in presenting research results to scientific audiences.
• Experience in communicating science to the public through exhibits, public programs, digital media or other means of public engagement.
• Experience in collaborating effectively to achieve goals both within and outside their research field.
• Experience using computers in a scientific environment, including use of common office software (e.g., Microsoft 365 suite)

The following experiences will be considered an asset

• Experience in working with natural history collections in a museum context.
• Experience in planning and conducting fieldwork.
• Experience in obtaining grants, external funds or other support for research projects.
• Experience in working with Indigenous communities.
• Experience in supervising, mentoring or supporting students, staff, volunteers or research assistants.

Note regarding fieldwork

• Experience in leading fieldwork expeditions, especially within Canada, including handling or leading the logistics for fieldwork (securing permits, arranging for travel and accommodations, transportation of equipment and supplies, etc.)
• Experience in leading and supervising an expedition team (staff, students and colleagues), including demonstrating leadership to create a safe and inclusive work environment
• Experience in seeking and securing partnerships and funding for fieldwork

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The position can require arduous physical work. However, the Museum provides an accessible and inclusive work environment. Accordingly, the Museum will examine, on a confidential, respectful and individual basis, any accessibility solutions or accommodation needs.

Company Name

Canadian Museum of Nature

Application Close Date

October 29, 2026