Research Scientist, Plant Production (Field Specialty Crops)

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) is recruiting for a Research Scientist, Plant Production (Field Specialty Crops) to work in an industry-driven research environment. Vineland is a world-class research centre dedicated to horticultural science and innovation.

Vineland is situated on treaty lands. These lands are steeped in the rich history of the First Nations such as the Hatiwendaronk, the Haudenosaunee, the Anishinaabe and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. Many First Nations, Métis and Inuit people from across Turtle Island live and work in Niagara today. Vineland stands with all Indigenous people, past and present, in promoting the wise stewardship of the lands on which we live. As treaty people, residents and caretakers, we are committed to continuous learning and a deep respect for Indigenous people, culture and history.

Vineland’s mission is to deliver innovative products and production solutions that address the needs of the horticulture industry and advance Canada’s research and commercialization agenda. We are an independent, not-for-profit organization, funded in part by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

Our people are the most important asset in achieving our goals and are known in the world for excellence in science and entrepreneurship. Our staff enjoys an exciting and challenging work environment noted for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Duties & Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director, Plant Responses and the Environment, the Research Scientist will conduct high-quality field trials and scientific research for the specific benefit of applied learnings related to plant growth; improved yields; and the overall ecological health of the agri-system including orchard fruit, vineyards and vegetable crops. The Research Scientist will have the knowledge of a crop advisor and the ability to dissect key market production challenges into high-quality research.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
(*A more comprehensive position outline is available upon request.)

Develop the Plant Responses and Environment Team’s specialty crop field research program.
Work with key crop advisors, researchers, and growers to identify research needs related to plant growth and yield benefits through improved production practices.
Preparing and executing experiments with cross-functional teams that support the goals of Vineland’s Programs.
Work closely with the Lab Supervisor, Soils & Substrates to develop nutrient management needs for key Canadian crops.
Develop and undertake research trials to improve the overall ecological sustainability of specific crops including orchard fruit, vineyards, and vegetable crops.
Working collaboratively on multi-disciplinary teams that may include other researchers, business development, marketing staff, clients and industry stakeholders.
Taking direction from program leaders and be accountable for assigned research targets.
Developing and managing research trials with detailed project schedule and work plans.
Managing the day‐to‐day activities associated with research projects, including monitoring and documenting progress, managing and interpreting data.
Advising Vineland staff on implementation of specialty crop, orchard and vineyard practices using conventional and organic methods.

Qualifications

5+ years of research experience in areas of crop science, crop advising, plant science and/or biological science, or environmental horticulture science
PhD in Horticulture, Plant Biology, Plant Sciences, or Plant Physiology
4+ years interacting with cross-functional teams
Established network connections within Canadian horticulture sector
Experience managing and overseeing multiple on-going initiatives simultaneously
Strong communication skills that facilitate clear, confident interactions and knowledge exchange with technical and non-technical teams
Passionate about the intersection of plants, products, technology, and experience
Demonstrated ability to be flexible, adaptable and open-minded.
Working knowledge of budgeting and financial management
Demonstrated ability to manage a small team
Certification in agronomy and/or certification as a crop advisor
Experience with field horticulture, tree nurseries, turf, vineyards and orchard crops
Experience working/collaborating on cross-disciplinary teams
Experience doing research to support the commercialization of products

Location:
Vineland Research and Innovation Centre*
4890 Victoria Avenue North, Vineland Station, Ontario, Canada, L0R 2E0
(*Please note that this location is not accessible by public transportation.)

Include:

A cover letter stating how your experience qualifies you for the position
Résumé
Contact information of three references

Full Time Position

Closing date: Open until filled

Location:

Apply Today

Please fill out the online application for this position. You will receive confirmation that your application has been received. Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Our people are the most important asset in achieving our goals and are known in the world for excellence in science and entrepreneurship.

Our staff enjoys outstanding benefits and an exciting and challenging work environment noted for collaboration and knowledge sharing all set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Career Opportunity

Research Scientist, Plant Production (Field Specialty Crops)

Duties & Responsibilities

Qualifications

Apply Today

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