Research Assistant, Biology

Research Assistant, Biology

Primary

Purpose:

I am seeking a research assistant to help lead establishment of a field camp at Anderson Bay on Victoria Island, Nunavut, Canada to study the population ecology of lesser snow geese and Ross’s geese. I anticipate the research assistant will plan all aspects of the field season, including logistics (, equipment and food orders) and experimental design. There also will be opportunities to study other Arctic ecosystem components, such as sea ducks.

This is a new camp but a continuation of data collection that started at the Karrak Lake research station in 1991, thus we anticipate similar protocols will be used for comparable data.

This camp is an international partnership among the Arctic Goose Joint Venture, Polar Knowledge Canada, Central Flyway Council, Mississippi Flyway Council and Canadian Wildlife Service.

Nature of Work: The research assistant will report to Dr. Mitch Weegman, Ducks Unlimited Canada Endowed Chair in Wetland and Waterfowl Conservation, and Associate Professor, in the Department of Biology.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: The research assistant will be based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and will join the field crew at Anderson Bay during June-July annually (beginning in 2026). I anticipate the research assistant will lead on data summarization and analysis, report writing, and communication to funders and collaborators during the non-field season. The research assistant also will have substantial opportunities to mentor graduate students in the Weegman lab.

This is initially a two-year term position, with anticipated continuation for long-term research.

Education: MSc in biology or ecology

Skills: Applicants should have: (1) recent experience in field work in wildlife biology or ecology, ideally with an emphasis on Arctic or northern systems and migratory birds, (2) current First Aid certification and familiarity with firearms, outboard motors, and navigation, (3) ability to manage and schedule multifaceted projects including working under pressure, meeting deadlines, and working with a variety of people, (4) ability to organize logistics and plan and coordinate work crews and teams, (5) ability to acquire materials used for field work, (6) ability to communicate diplomatically and effectively, both orally and in writing, and (7) willingness to work in a variety of conditions (cold/snowy, hot/buggy) and with moderate physical exercise (walking 10 – 15 km per day).

To be considered for this position, please send the following (preferably as a single PDF) to Dr. Mitch Weegman ():

(1) Letter of interest summarizing your experience, (2) Curriculum vitae or resume, (3) Contact information for three references.