Graduate Student Research Opportunity: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) offers an exceptional research opportunity for a Graduate Student to explore the microbial ecology of agricultural nitrogen management systems. This position will involve conducting innovative research in collaboration with AAFC and the University of Guelph to address critical environmental sustainability challenges in Canadian agriculture.
Designation: Graduate Student in Microbial Ecology of Agricultural Nitrogen Management Systems
Research Area: The research will focus on the interactive effects of cover crops and nitrification inhibitors in agricultural systems, with a specific emphasis on soil microbial mechanisms. The project aims to develop new molecular tools for investigating microbial communities in soil and support the development of innovative best management practices to promote agricultural practices that build soil carbon while maintaining crop productivity and supporting Canada’s GHG reduction targets.
Location: Harrow, Ontario
Eligibility/Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled or will be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in a recognized post-secondary institution with a specialization in Microbial ecology, Environmental science, Environmental microbiology, or Soil science/biogeochemistry. Proof of enrollment will be required prior to the start date.
- Must meet the eligibility criteria to enroll at the University of Guelph.
- Experience in soil science or a comparable environmental science, as well as microbiology or molecular biology, is required.
- Knowledge of collecting gas, water, and soil samples, and theory and principles of statistical analysis in biological sciences is advantageous.
Job Description:
The student will work 16 hours per week with the possibility of part-time extension, with a projected start date of September 3, 2024, or January 2, 2025, and an end date of January 3, 2028, depending on the candidate’s availability or needs. Responsibilities include research leading to the writing of a graduate thesis, investigating co-predictors of inhibitor effectiveness within and across different agricultural regions, and developing new molecular tools for investigating microbial communities in soil.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their résumé, a covering letter, contact information for 2 references, and a list of the courses they have taken or will be taking. Applications must clearly explain how the applicant meets the essential qualifications. All applications must be submitted online, and the applicants’ email address should accept emails from unknown users. Persons residing in Canada, Canadian citizens, and Permanent residents abroad are eligible to apply.
Last Date for Apply: 19 July 2024 – 23:59, Pacific Time
For further information on the position and to apply, please visit AAFC’s Job Opportunities and search for Reference number AGR24J-170607-000008.
