Research Scientist, Biological Control

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) is recruiting for a Research Scientist, Biological Control to work in an industry-driven research environment. Vineland is a uniquely Canadian results-oriented organization dedicated to horticulture science and innovation.

Vineland is situated on treaty lands. These lands are steeped in the rich history of the First Nations including the Hatiwendaronk, the Haudenosaunee, the Anishinaabe and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. Many First Nations, Métis and Inuit people from across Turtle Island live and work in Niagara today. Vineland stands with all Indigenous people, past and present, in promoting the wise stewardship of the lands on which we live. As treaty people, residents and caretakers, we are committed to continuous learning and a deep respect for Indigenous people, culture and history.

Vineland’s mission is to deliver innovative products and production solutions addressing the needs of the horticulture industry and advancing Canada’s research and commercialization agenda. We are an independent, not-for-profit organization, funded in part by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

Our people are the most important asset in achieving our goals and are known in the world for excellence in science and entrepreneurship. Our staff enjoys an exciting and challenging work environment noted for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Vineland is committed to employment equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates including women, Indigenous peoples, members of visible minorities and racialized groups, persons with disabilities, persons of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and others. In accordance with all applicable provincial accessibility standards, accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process.

Applications are encouraged immediately and should be submitted online below. We appreciate all applications received; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The term of employment for this position is from September 2024 to March 2028.

Duties & Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director, Biological Crop Protection, the Research Scientist, Biological Control will develop and lead research projects to enable and accelerate the introduction and use of biological plant protection strategies and reduce the negative impact of pests in horticultural crops (including greenhouse, outdoor fruit and vegetable crops). Following a clear understanding of the challenges and needs of the horticultural industry, these projects will develop new crop protection tools, strategies, evaluate them, design and test implementation practices to improve the success of IPM.

The Research Scientist will collaborate closely with other scientific and technical staff at Vineland, as well as external partners, to enable a multi-disciplinary approach to research and project delivery that incorporates breeding, plant pathology, consumer and sensory sciences, plant production systems, bioinformatics and biochemistry.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

(*A more comprehensive position outline is available upon request.)

As part of a team, including the Program Leader and technical staff, assume the responsibility for the delivery of multiple research projects in biological pest control, including a multi-year project on aphids and thrips
Working together with the Program Leader, Business Development Office and research staff, develop new projects and funding sources (both grants and industry) to build and maintain the research program project pipeline
Work across the Vineland programs and teams to contribute biological pest control expertise
Lead, train and manage program staff, co-op and graduate students
Assist with the administration of the annual operating budget for the program

Qualifications

Post-secondary degree (BSc or MSc) in biological science or related field with a focus on entomology
PhD in biological science or related field with a focus on entomology preferred
Minimum three to five years of research experience in biological control and integrated pest management
Experience in insect and mite ecology, insect pathology and/or biopesticides and biostimulants, especially biocontrol of thrips and aphids
Experimental design and statistical analysis
Knowledge of integrated pest management, biological control and sustainability in the horticultural sector
Knowledge of bioproduct registration process and regulations around bioproduct research
Working knowledge of budgeting and financial management
Demonstrated ability to manage a small team

We offer:

Flexible work arrangement
Competitive salary + bonus structure
Comprehensive health benefits
RRSP matching plan
Paid vacation
Employee perks
Company events

Include:

A cover letter stating how your experience qualifies you for the position
Résumé

Contract Position

Closing date: Open until filled

Location: 4890 Victoria Avenue North, Vineland Station, ON L0R 2E0

Apply Today

Please fill out the online application for this position. You will receive confirmation that your application has been received. Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Our people are the most important asset in achieving our goals and are known in the world for excellence in science and entrepreneurship.

Our staff enjoys outstanding benefits and an exciting and challenging work environment noted for collaboration and knowledge sharing all set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Career Opportunity

Research Scientist, Biological Control

Duties & Responsibilities

Qualifications

Apply Today

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