Research Assistant - Organic Milk Production - Research Affiliate Program

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 Persons 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.

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Reliability Status security clearance

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 performance of the duties of the position.
Possession of a valid Quebec Class 5 driver's licence (or equivalent provincial/territorial licence).Each student hired through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) must meet the security requirements of the position as a condition of employment and, therefore will be asked by the hiring organization to complete security-relevant documents.

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Must be willing to work with animals, collect samples of various kinds (e.g., forage, feed, refuse, feces, urine), handle organic chemicals and solvents in the laboratory and perform laboratory assays.
Willingness and ability to work variable hours, including evenings, nights and weekends.
The candidate will drive an AAFC or U-Laval vehicle to access the experience site.

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Education:
-Currently enrolled or will be enrolled by the date of appointment in the master's program in the Department of Animal Sciences at Université Laval. Proof of enrolment will be required prior to the start date of employment and the student will be required to return to full-time studies in the following term.
-Have an undergraduate degree (or in the final year) in a program in agronomy, animal science, agricultural economics, biology or other relevant field at a recognized post-secondary institution.Note: The Applicant must be currently recognized as having full-time student status in the academic institution in which you are presently enrolled, pending approval of acceptance or in the process of submitting your application. Proof of enrollment will be required prior to start date and the student must be returning to full-time studies for your next academic term.

Experience:
Experience* in having contact with large animals (cattle, horses, etc.).*Note: In the context of student recruitment in the Federal Public Service, the experience can be acquired through studies, work experience or volunteer activities.

Knowledge:
Knowledge of dairy production.
Knowledge of laboratory safety practices.

Competencies:
Teamwork
Interactive communication
Writing skills
Adaptability

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Applied / assessed at a later date

English or French - You are entitled to participate in the selection process in the official language of your choice.

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Agriculture and Agri-food Canada recognizes that the diversity of its employee population contributes to its strength and integrity. We are committed to achieving employment equity and developing a highly capable workforce that is representative of Canadian Society. We encourage women (especially in non-traditional occupations), Indigenous peoples (Aboriginal peoples), persons with disabilities, and members of visible minority groups to apply and declare themselves as part of one or more of the Employment Equity groups, as selection may be limited to candidates belonging to one or more of the groups.

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Preference will be given to veterans first, followed by Canadian citizens and permanent residents, with the exception of jobs located in Nunavut or Yukon. For positions located in Nunavut, qualified Inuit enrolled under the Nunavut Agreement will be appointed first. For positions located in Yukon, qualified Yukon First Nations will be appointed first, followed by qualified Indigenous persons.

Learn more about preference to veterans.

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