Student Assistant, Plant Sciences

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; Part time

Job summary

An educational institution in Canada seeks a Casual Student Assistant to support indoor research activities in the Pulse Crop Pathology Program. The role involves cleaning reusable nursery pots and requires excellent organizational and communication skills. Ideal candidates should possess a Grade 12 or GED equivalent and be motivated and reliable. This part-time position works from January to April 2026, with hours between 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Opportunities for growth and learning in a supportive environment are provided.

Qualifications

• Completion of Grade 12 or GED equivalent.
• No previous experience necessary.

Responsibilities

• Clean and disinfect reusable plastic nursery pots.
• Assist with indoor research activities in controlled-environment chambers.
• Work independently in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources.

Skills

Excellent oral and written communication skills in English

Motivated

Reliable

Well-organized

Education

Completion of Grade 12 or GED equivalent

Job description

Primary Purpose: The Pulse Crop Pathology Program at the Crop Development Centre, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Saskatchewan requires a student assistant on a casual basis who will work as part of a team to support the program’s indoor research activities.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Pulse Crop Pathology Research Technician, the candidate will be involved in the cleaning and disinfection of reusable plastic nursery pots to aid in preserving the health of seedlings undergoing pathology tests in controlled-environment chambers.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: Responsibilities will include the physical removal of soil and/or salts build up on the containers, soaking pots and trays in a tub with hot water, soap and bleach solution to kill any plant disease organisms that may be present, followed by scrubbing, rinsing, air drying and storage of clean pots for reuse. The successful candidate will work in the wash up area of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources phytotron facility and/or the Agriculture greenhouse between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm Monday through Friday, a few hours/week, from January to end April 2026.

Education: Completion of Grade 12 or GED equivalent

Licenses: Candidates should have or be willing to obtain WHMIS training and USASK safety course-safety orientation for employees.

Experience: none necessary

Skills: Candidates must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English. This position requires a motivated, reliable and well-organized person able to work independently.

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Stephanie Boechler at 306 966-6928.

Department: Plant Sciences
Status: Casual
Employment Group: Undergraduate Students - Non-union
Rate of Pay: Current rates of pay
Posted Date: 12/24/2025
Closing Date: 2/3/2026
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location:On Campus

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action .
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by thedeybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources for assistance.