PLSC Molecular Technician

The Bennett Lab at the University of Saskatchewan, Department of Plant Sciences is looking for 2 molecular technicians to join our diverse group.

Primary Purpose: Successful individuals will join a set of new, highly collaborative, and well-funded projects exploring multi-trophic interactions in grassland ecosystems and identifying management interventions that can enhance the associated ecosystem services.

Nature of Work: Our group’s focus in these projects will be on understanding how the species and genetic composition of plant assemblages influence soil microbial communities and the consequences of those relationships for multiple ecosystem services. We will explore these questions using observational studies, and field and greenhouse experiments.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: The technicians will be responsible for conducting sample processing, primarily for DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation of soil and insect samples, but also for other measurements on plant and soil samples (e.g., NIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis). The successful applicants will be expected to coordinate sample collection and pre-processing among multiple research groups. As such, strong interpersonal and organizational skills will be needed.

Required Education & Experience: An MSc in ecology, agriculture, microbiology, soil science, entomology, or another relevant field, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. This experience must include DNA extraction & purification, and DNA library preparation for sequencing.

Other Desired Experience: Experience with high throughput extraction protocols, long-read sequencing, and bioinformatics. Experience with NIR spectroscopy and elemental analysis.

Skills: Candidates must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English.  This position requires motivated, reliable and well-organized individuals able to work in a multi-disciplinary group environment.

To Apply:

Interested applicants must include a cover letter as well as a CV. Application review will begin immediately, and positions will remain open until suitable candidates are found.

The start date for at least one of the positions is March 1st , 2024. Consequently, early availability is considered an asset.

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Bahati Chisala-Nyekanyeka at [email protected] .

Department: Plant Sciences
Status: Term 1 year
Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $27.18 - 36.77 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 6
Posted Date: 1/26/2024
Closing Date: 2/23/2024
Number of Openings: 2
Work Location: On Campus

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Not Applicable
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable