Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is an important part of the Government of Canada, dedicated to enhancing agricultural innovation and sustainability throughout the nation. With a strong emphasis on climate research and food security, AAFC is currently looking for candidates to apply for a Research Assistant role in the Science and Technology Branch, based at the Swift Current Research and Development Centre in Saskatchewan.
This opportunity is available through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP). It gives students valuable hands-on experience in agricultural and environmental research that supports Canada’s sustainability goals.
Research Assistant Canada Job Overview
Category |
Details |
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Job Title |
Research Assistant – Chickpea Cultivar’s Carbon Footprint |
Department |
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) |
Location |
Swift Current, Saskatchewan |
Employment Period |
May 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027 |
Salary Range |
$25.17 – $31.69 per hour (dependent on education and experience) |
Work Schedule |
22.5 to 37.5 hours per week, with the possibility of part-time extension |
Application Deadline |
October 23, 2025 – 23:59 Pacific Time |
Role and Responsibilities For Research Assistant Job
As a research assistant, you will be an integral part of the Soil Carbon Cycling and Agronomy Research Program, supporting efforts to assess and mitigate the environmental impacts of Canadian agriculture. You will work with experienced scientists in agronomy, soil science, and plant breeding to gain an understanding about the carbon footprint associated with chickpea cultivars by using innovative research and data analysis approaches.
Your key responsibilities will include:
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Performing field and lab experiments to estimate shoot-to-root ratios, harvest indices, and yields among multiple chickpea cultivars.
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Using 13C- and 15N-isotope labeling to track carbon and N inputs within soil systems.
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Conducting crop residue decomposition studies to estimate N cycling and the health of the soil.
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Sampling and analyzing greenhouse gas (GHG) samples from the field experiments to estimate the carbon footprint that comes with varying cultivars.
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Supporting experimental design, sample preparations, and data interpretation.
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Participating in the development of scientific reports, papers, and your own graduate thesis from the research results.
Research Assistant Job presents an excellent opportunity to work with researchers from the AAFC Swift Current as well as the University of Saskatchewan, developing an excellent interdisciplinary and academic research environment.
Qualifications and Eligibility
Criteria |
Requirements |
---|---|
Eligibility |
Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or an individual currently residing in Canada. |
Education |
Enrolled in a Master’s program at the University of Saskatchewan specializing in Plant Science, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Biology, or a closely related field by the appointment date. |
Student Status |
Must be recognized as a full-time student at an accredited Canadian post-secondary institution. |
Experience |
Having prior experience in laboratory or field research connected to agricultural or environmental sciences—whether through classes, jobs, or volunteer work—can really make a difference. |
Essential Skills and Competencies
Candidates will be evaluated on the following core areas:
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Knowledge: Strong foundational understanding of plant, soil, and environmental sciences.
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Abilities: Competence in scientific observation, data collection, and analytical techniques.
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Competencies: Demonstrated adaptability, effective communication skills, excellent organizational and planning capabilities, and the ability to work collaboratively within a research team.
Application Process
Your journey toward an impactful career in agricultural science begins here. Interested applicants must apply online through the Government of Canada Jobs Portal by October 23, 2025.
Steps to Apply
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Prepare Your Application Package
Include your résumé, contact details for two references, and a complete list of all post-secondary courses taken, currently enrolled in, or planned. -
Demonstrate Your Qualifications
Clearly outline how you meet the essential education and experience requirements in your application. -
Submit Your Application Online
Only applications submitted through the GC Jobs portal will be accepted. Email submissions will not be considered.
AAFC is dedicated to creating a workplace that values inclusivity, diversity, and equity. We encourage applicants to openly share if they identify with one or more designated Employment Equity groups.
Why Join AAFC
This role presents a distinct and exciting chance to play a role in Canada‘s efforts to ensure sustainable agriculture, while also receiving valuable experience in the field and training in research. You will work in a collaborative environment with access to advanced materials & analytical tools and work closely with leading researchers in agriculturally based research.