Research Assistant in Wildlife Disease Research, Canada

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Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre and University of Saskatchewan

Research Assistant in Wildlife Disease Research - 1 year term position

The Research Assistant, based at the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre and University of Saskatchewan, will support research studies conducted by our multidisciplinary team, which specializes in examining ecological determinants, risk factors, impacts, origins, and spread of emerging infectious diseases of wildlife (primarily wild birds), using a variety of techniques from molecular to population-based studies.

The Research Assistant’s responsibilities will include laboratory (70%), field (10%), administrative (15%) and writing/reporting activities (5%) including, but not limited to: development/validation of diagnostic methods; analyzing animal and environmental samples using molecular (e.g. real-time and conventional PCR and PCR-based genotyping techniques) and basic bacteriological techniques; processing of feathers for stable isotope and hormone assays (e.g., ELISAs); logistics associated with local and remote field work; field work including the capture, handling, banding, and sampling of wild birds; data entry; data management; writing reports; and working closely with graduate students, summer students, and collaborators within the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Environment Canada, and other universities/organizations.

The successful candidate will be competent, industrious, collaborative, and enthusiastic, must work well independently, be willing to take direction and learn on the job, and be a good team player with excellent interpersonal skills. This position will require a significant level of independence and good judgment.

Minimum qualifications: MSc in relevant science field, or BSc with minimum two years relevant experience.

Previous laboratory experience is essential. Field experience is preferred. Please highlight in your application how you meet these qualifications.

Stipend will be commensurate with level of training and experience (range $18.96-26.00/hr).

The position is available immediately and will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Please email your resume, cover letter, and names and contact information of three references to:

Dr. Catherine Soos, BSc, DVM, PhD
Wildlife Disease Specialist/Research Scientist, Environment Canada
Adjunct Professor, Dept of Veterinary Pathology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of
Saskatchewan
Professional Associate, Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre
tel: 306.975.5357
fax: 306.975.4089
catherine.soos@ec.gc.ca