Senior Research Technician, Plant Pathology Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Vineland Research & Innovation Centre (Vineland) is a uniquely Canadian results-oriented organization dedicated to horticulture science and innovation. 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. We deliver innovative products, solutions and services through an integrated and collaborative cross-country network to advance Canada’s research and commercialization agenda.

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.

The Senior Research Technician, Plant Pathology is responsible for project design, execution and reporting under the supervision of the Research Scientist, Plant Pathology. The role involves coordinating, planning and leading greenhouse and field pathology research to enable and accelerate the introduction and use of biological plant protection strategies and reduce the negative impact of pathogens in horticultural crops. This position will collaborate closely with other scientific and technical staff at Vineland, as well as external partners, to enable a multidisciplinary approach to research and project delivery.

• Lead the technical staff in the Plant Pathology lab, ensure the delivery of multiple research projects:
• Work together with the Research Scientist, Plant Pathology to build and maintain the Research Program project pipeline with grant-funded and contract research.
• Work across Vineland’s programs and teams to contribute plant pathology, disease control and biosecurity expertise.
• Ensure proper management and overall organization of the laboratory, equipment and supplies, including equipment maintenance, SOPs, SDSs and chemical inventory.

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Biological Science or equivalent.
• Minimum of two (2) to three (3) years’ related experience.
• Experience in plant pathology, microbiology, biopesticides required.
• Strong skills in scientific writing and related written communication skills.
• Project management skills and capability as a coordinator for project tasks.
• Experience managing and overseeing multiple on-going initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience working in cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication skills that facilitate clear, confident interactions and knowledge exchange with technical and non-technical teams.
• Solid experience in experimental design and statistical analysis.
• The following knowledge will be an asset:
  • Bioproduct registration process and regulations related to bioproduct research.
  • Disease resistance phenotyping assay design for marker assisted plant breeding.
  • Environmental DNA and metagenomics

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

Vineland strives to create an environment that brings the power of diversity to life. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates including women, Indigenous peoples, members of visible minorities and racialized groups, persons…