Research Associate Full-time NEW

Job Title

Trust Research Academic Staff (TRAS) in Plant Pathology

Job Description

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

• 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.

About the Team

The Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences is a leader in teaching, research, and community engagement across diverse fields including food systems, sustainable resource management, human ecology, and environmental sociology. With more than 500 faculty and staff, over 1,500 undergraduates, and 600 graduate students, the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences leverages 25,000 acres of research land across Alberta to deliver high-impact academic programs and applied research in partnership with industry and communities.

About University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community. The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide. Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people – from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more. At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns. The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply. L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.