Intermediate Researcher, Bio-Industrial R&D Team

The Bio Industrial Services Division at InnoTech Alberta is looking for an Intermediate Researcher to join our Research and Development team specializing in Plant Sciences. The selected candidate will spearhead projects focused on crop and plant research, implementing innovative technologies and processes aimed at enhancing commerce in Alberta.

Responsibilities include identifying, pursuing, and managing business development opportunities, preparing client proposals, designing experiments and testing programs, and guiding technologists in project execution. Collaboration with colleagues, clients, and external experts will be a key aspect of this role. This is a full-time, permanent position based in Vegreville, AB. The successful candidate will receive a competitive compensation package that includes medical and dental benefits, a pension plan, paid annual vacation, personal time off, and opportunities for career growth within the organization. Are You the Right Fit?: You may be the ideal candidate if you: - Have a passion for collaborating with agriculture-focused client groups to lead research and validation trials, implement solutions, and demonstrate their benefits. - Enjoy utilizing your scientific expertise to engage in business development and cultivate new projects and initiatives. - Possess strong leadership, coaching, and technical skills to mentor others and foster a collaborative team environment. - Excel in project management and thrive on meeting new challenges head-on.

About InnoTech Alberta: InnoTech is a premier Applied Research & Technology Development Services Organization that caters to the needs of industry, entrepreneurs, and the public sector. Our advanced expertise and research facilities accelerate technology development while focusing on industrial solutions and commercial applications. With a century of innovative ideas, we are Alberta's engine of advancement, contributing to agriculture, energy, the environment, and forestry sectors.

Learn more at: [InnoTech Alberta](https://innotechalberta.ca/) Our R&D Team, operating from Edmonton and Vegreville, features specialized facilities such as greenhouses and a 300-acre research farm. We specialize in Plant Sciences, biotechnology, biomass feedstock development, bio-processing, bio-conversion, thermo-chemical treatments, and biomaterials engineering, supporting industries in designing, developing, demonstrating, utilizing, and commercializing new bio-material production processes. We also offer experimental services for crop research in diverse settings, serving a wide range of clients and partners, including agricultural entities, funding agencies, SMEs, government bodies, and academic institutions. Position Overview: Reporting to the Supervisor of Bio Industrial Services – Research and Development, the Intermediate Researcher will lead business development activities, craft proposals for clients, design experimental frameworks, and oversee technologists during project execution. Candidates should gain familiarity with the operation and capabilities of our service areas, which include field plots, greenhouses, laboratories, and associated equipment. Key responsibilities include: - Identifying industry needs, assessing technical and economic viability, securing funding, and leading R&D initiatives in crop agriculture, particularly within the commercial agriculture sector. - Designing, managing, analyzing, and reporting on crop research conducted in various settings, including field plots and laboratories, with an emphasis on traditional and emerging crops such as hemp. - Leading innovative crop research projects that encompass various disciplines, including agronomy, breeding, molecular biology, food processing, and more.
- Building internal and external support among industry, government, and academic stakeholders for research initiatives.
- Engaging in business development to propose and execute projects for clients.
- Developing and submitting robust funding applications and research proposals.
- Directing technologists on operations, process improvements, and equipment needs. - Addressing client needs to guide work direction and ensure effective communication of results.
- Overseeing equipment maintenance and operations.
- Enhancing technical expertise and expanding capabilities in the service area while generating new business opportunities.
- Ensuring timely and budget-compliant delivery of experimental and testing services.
- Providing technical insights for clients and business partners. Qualifications and Skills Required:
- M.Sc. in a crop agriculture-related field; a Ph.D. is a strong asset. - Specializations may include agronomy, soil science, plant physiology, plant pathology, plant breeding, tissue culture, or others. - Experience with field plot research is highly desirable.
- Horticultural crop or greenhouse production experience is beneficial.
- Cross-disciplinary research experience is preferred.
- Eligibility for registration as a Professional Agrologist or other relevant professional designation is an asset.
- Expertise in plant pathology and agronomy is preferred, along with a desire to work in multidisciplinary teams integrating AI/machine learning, breeding, molecular biology, and more.
- Proven experience in liaising with industry, government, and academic stakeholders in agriculture-related fields. - Minimum three years of agriculture-related R&D or extension experience, with at least two years outside of a university setting; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
- Knowledge and experience in applied research advantageous.
- Strong project management skills, including budget and resource management, with the ability to navigate changing environments.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills for building and maintaining stakeholder relationships.
- Effective in diverse team settings. - Strong leadership capabilities for guiding teams, managing workflows, and delegating tasks.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to create high-quality technical presentations and reports.
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel to work sites as necessary. Why Choose InnoTech Alberta?: At InnoTech Alberta, we provide employees with opportunities to work on impactful projects while developing their skills. We prioritize employee growth, offering various capacities for skill development. Understanding the importance of wellness, we provide a comprehensive benefits package and generous vacation and paid time off policies to foster work-life balance, alongside flexible work and wellness programs. We are committed to diversity and inclusivity. We value unique perspectives and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Selections are based on qualifications and merit, and we welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds. Final candidates will need to undergo a security clearance and provide credible references. Interested and qualified candidates should apply promptly, as the position will close once a suitable candidate is found. **InnoTech Alberta upholds the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from everyone. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those invited for an interview will be contacted.**

Apply now;
careers@albertainnovates.ca