Job Title: Student Research Assistant – Bio Agriculture (Laboratory)
Location: Sydney, Nova Scotia
Term: 16 weeks (January – April 2023)
Hours per week: 35 (or equivalent)
Salary: Depending on experience (min $16/hour)
Program of Study: Bioengineering, Microbiology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Agricultural/Plant/Life Sciences (Science, Information Technology, Engineering Co-operative Education)
The Verschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment is an independent clean technology development and deployment facility. We offer client tailored services to support companies in developing sustainable solutions that meet industry needs. The Centre has an established team of expertise in key areas to assist companies advance IP and accelerate development. Areas of specialty include biomarine extractions, biomanufacturing, agriculture bioprocessing, carbon transformation, biopolymer materials, energy transitioning and climate mitigation in aquaculture. Through the Centre’s collaborative approach and cutting-edge analytical and pilot-scale test facilities, clients can develop their IP while connecting with partners, markets, and business development support to reach target market.
About the Bio Agriculture team
Our Bio Agriculture team supports clients in commercializing their products, such as bio stimulants, biofertilizers, and biocontrol agents, by evaluating their potential effects on plant bioassays in a controlled chamber or greenhouse conditions. We are seeking a student research assistant to support plant bioassays/product development activities and do so within a collaborative environment.
Qualifications – An ideal student research assistant will:
· Be working towards an undergraduate degree in agricultural science/ plant sciences/life sciences or similar fields;
· Willing to work with biofertilizers, biostimulants, and bioinoculants;
· Have hands-on laboratory experience including some basic training in handling different crop species under green house and growth room conditions; experimental design; monitoring plant growth conditions such as temperature, humidity, light conditions, sample collection and analysis;
· Be organized, and able to record, analyze, and present experimental data;
· Willing to work in a small team in a fast-paced environment; and
· Demonstrate ability to work independently, responsibly and manage time efficiently, while multi-tasking.
Duties and Responsibilities:
· Assist with all growing activities as appropriate including seeding, transplanting, irrigating, harvesting, data collection and clean up.
· Assist in development of bio-product laboratory methodologies and procedures related to specific projects.