Graduate Research Assistant

Graduate Research Assistant - Research Affiliate Program

Reference number : AGR24J-170607-000014

Selection process number : 24-AGR-RAP-62 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - Science and Technology Branch

Guelph (Ontario)

The projected start date is September 3, 2024 with an end date of September 2, 2026 (or depending on the candidate's availability or needs). It is expected that the student will work 25 hours per week with the possibility of part-time extension.

24.62 to $37.53 per hour (Varies as per level of education and experience.)

For further information on the organization, please visit

For further information on the Research Affiliate Program (RAP), please visit

Closing date : 29 July 2024 - 23 : 59, Pacific Time

Who can apply : Persons residing in Canada, Canadian citizens, and Permanent residents abroad.

To be considered for Research Affiliate Program (RAP) work opportunities, all candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria by the date of appointment :

• Be recognized as having full-time student status at an accredited Canadian post-secondary academic institution (this includes students with a disability deemed to have full-time status). Individuals pending approval of acceptance or in the process of submitting applications are encouraged to apply, as proof of enrollment will only be required prior to the start date.
• Be enrolled in an academic program that requires research as part of the curriculum.
• Be at least the minimum age to work in the province or territory where the job is located.

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

AAFC is committed to diversity and inclusion and is proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s best diversity employers. We welcome all applicants and strongly encourage candidates to self-declare if they belong to an Employment Equity designated group (i.e. Aboriginal Peoples, Persons with Disabilities, Visible Minorities, or Women).

Persons are entitled to participate in the appointment process in the official language of their choice. Applicants are asked to indicate their preferred official language in their application.

Communication for this process will be sent via email. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure accurate contact information is provided and updated as required. Candidates who apply to this selection process should include an email address that accepts emails from unknown users (some email systems block these types of emails).

Duties

Under the supervision of Dr. Q. Liu and Dr. M. Thompson, the candidate will conduct research to advance knowledge on 1) development of novel starch- and protein-based thermoplastic resin and blend for bioplastic film; 2) development of novel process and technology for starch- and protein-based bioplastic film; 3) characterization of physicochemical properties and structural of novel thermoplastic starch and protein as well as bioplastic film products.

Work environment

The lab is located at The Guelph Research and Development Centre – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Guelph, On). The work environment includes a lab with different processing equipment and analytical instrument. Work will include formulation of plant polymer and blends, bioplastic film fabrication, and property characterization. Appropriate training will be provided to create a safe work 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.

Positions to be filled : 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

Contact information for 2 references.

A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Education :

Currently enrolled or eligible to be enrolled in a M.Sc. or PhD program in Chemical Engineering at the McMaster University.

Experience :

Experience working with starch.

Experience in biopolymer or polymer characterization.

Note : In the context of student recruitment in the Federal Public Service, the experience can be acquired through the studies, work experience, or volunteer activities.

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Knowledge :

Knowledge of principles of starch and protein chemistry.

Knowledge of basic processing techniques for bioplastic.

Knowledge of physical chemical characterization of bioplastic.

Competencies :

Interactive Communication

Initiative

Teamwork

Problem Solving

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

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.

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance - 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.

Ability and willingness to adhere to laboratory safety standards and procedures.

Ability and willingness to work flexible hours.

Ability and willingness to work overtime.

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the designated groups when you apply.

Applications submitted by email will not be accepted. You must apply online through .

Persons with disabilities preventing them from applying online are asked to contact the email referenced below under “Contact Information.”

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.