Research Associate

Description

This position has an initial appointment until March 31, 2030.

Location -This role is in-person primarily at North Campus, Edmonton and various sites in Edmonton.

Position Summary

This position requires advanced expertise in molecular biology, genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics to support research on host–pathogen interactions, with emphasis on clubroot of canola, tan spot of wheat, and related plant diseases.

The successful candidate will design and implement molecular and genomic approaches to investigate pathogen diversity, population structure, and mechanisms underlying disease development. The role includes the analysis and interpretation of complex genomic datasets and integration of multi-omics information to address key biological questions in plant pathology.

The position also involves effective communication of research findings through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and presentations to academic, industry, and grower audiences. The incumbent will work collaboratively with researchers, graduate students, and highly qualified personnel within the Plant Pathology Group, contributing to coordinated research initiatives and supporting knowledge translation activities within the University of Alberta and with external partners.

The role requires strong teamwork and the ability to contribute to a highly collaborative research environment focused on advancing understanding and management of major crop diseases.

Responsibilities

Duties will be carried out in consultation with the Principal Investigator and may include, but are not limited to:

Research Design and Project Development

• Plan and design research activities focused on pathogen diversity, molecular mechanisms underlying disease development, genomics, transcriptomics, and population structure of plant pathogens, particularly clubroot of canola and tan spot of wheat.
• Identify and implement appropriate experimental and analytical methodologies to address research objectives.

Develop experimental designs and laboratory protocols, including standards for data collection and quality control.

• Contribute to the development of new research directions aligned with the goals of the Plant Pathology Group.

Data Analysis and Scientific Investigation

• Conduct advanced analysis of genomic, transcriptomic, and molecular data using bioinformatics and statistical approaches.
• Interpret research results and integrate multiple data sources to support scientific conclusions.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of analytical workflows for complex biological datasets.

Scientific Communication and Knowledge Dissemination

• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, technical reports, presentations, and other research outputs.
• Present research findings at laboratory meetings, scientific conferences, industry workshops, and related venues.
• Communicate research outcomes effectively to both academic and industry audiences.

Training, Supervision, and Mentorship

• Guide and mentor undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows in research activities.
• Provide technical supervision and training in laboratory and bioinformatics methodologies.
• Supervise and coordinate the work of support staff when required.

Collaboration and Administrative Support

• Foster communication and collaboration with off-campus partners, including industry stakeholders and academic collaborators.
• Assist in the preparation of research grant applications, contract proposals, and related documentation.
• Support administrative and project coordination tasks associated with ongoing research

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biology or a related field with a focus on plant–pathogen interactions, molecular biology, and genomics.
• Minimum of 3 years of postdoctoral experience working with Plasmodiophora brassicae and canola.
• At least 5 years of experience in plant–pathogen/pest interactions, molecular biology, genomics, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics.
• Demonstrated expertise in handling large-scale omics datasets to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying disease development.
• Experience conducting research on P. brassicae pathotyping using molecular biology approaches.
• Strong record of publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Proficiency in experimental design and analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data
• Experience mentoring graduate and undergraduate students in research projects.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage research timelines effectively.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience contributing to the development of research proposals and grant applications.
• Ability to lead research projects and work independently.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your cover letter and resume.

This position offers acomprehensive benefits packagewith an annual salary range of $65,369 - $73,544.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed bySchedule Eof the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.