Research Assistant - Organic Milk Production

Research Assistant - Organic Milk Production - Research Affiliate Program Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Science and Technology Branch Closing date:

March 10, 2026 - 23:59, Pacific Time

Employment tenure The projected start date is May 18, 2026 with an end date of May 17, 2028 (or depending on the candidate's availability or needs). It is expected that the student will work 15 hours per week with the possibility of part-time extension.

Salary $25.17 to $29.34 per hour-Masters $25.17 to $29.34. Varies as per the level of education and experience.

Who can apply Persons residing in Canada, Canadian citizens, and Permanent residents abroad. To be considered for Research Affiliate Program (RAP) work opportunities, all candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria by the date of appointment:

• Be recognized as having full‑time student status at an accredited Canadian post‑secondary academic institution (this includes students with a disability deemed to have full‑time status). Individuals pending approval of acceptance or in the process of submitting applications are encouraged to apply, as proof of enrollment will only be required prior to the start date.
• Be enrolled in an academic program that requires research as part of the curriculum.
• Be at least the minimum age to work in the province or territory where the job is located.

Duties The successful applicant will participate in a research project on the effect of cow feeding on pastures in organic dairy production on greenhouse gas emissions and cow productivity. They will participate in the realization of the animal and laboratory phases including data collection, sampling and processing, and laboratory analyses. The recruited person will write a report on project methodology and results.

Work environment Agriculture and Agri‑Food Canada (AAFC). Quebec Research and Development Centre was established in 1967 in Quebec City, Quebec. It is one of AAFC's 20 agricultural research centres;
Specialized in forage plant research and soil. The research conducted at the CRD Québec aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability in cold and humid climates and environmental performance through the development of field crop systems that integrate the use of perennial forage species. Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre was established in 1914 in Sherbrooke, Qc. It is AAFC's only research centre dedicated to innovative research with a primary focus on Canada's dairy and swine industries.

The centre conducts research in environmental sustainability, production systems, and dairy cattle health and welfare. The 2 centres have close scientific collaborations, as well as with Université Laval, McGill, and other universities and research centres. It is a bilingual environment. AAFC is committed to diversity and inclusion. We have several networks dedicated to ensuring that the department continues to grow as an inclusive, accessible, respectful and diverse workplace.

All employees are encouraged and welcomed to join the networks and participate in their activities and events.

• The Gender and Sexual Diversity Inclusiveness Network
• The Indigenous Network Circle
• The Managers' Community
• The Person s with Disabilities Network
• The Student Panel of Representatives for Orientation, Unity and Training
• The Visible Minorities Network
• The Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network
• The Young Professional's Network

Positions to be filled 1

Important messages Candidates will be required to pay for their own travel related to assessment and successful candidates will be responsible for obtaining their own living accommodations. Successful completion of both a RAP work assignment and your educational program may lead to a temporary or permanent federal public service position for which you meet the merit criteria and conditions of employment.

• Ability and willingness to work in laboratories, barns and various agricultural settings with the ability and willingness to comply with safety standards and procedures.
• Willingness and ability to control allergies with personal protective equipment and/or medication so that they do not interfere with the…