Research Scientist – Plant Pathology
Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) is looking to recruit for a Research Scientist position
in Plant Pathology. We are seeking a dynamic individual to develop an industry-responsive research
program and provide pathology support via collaborative projects with Vineland researchers (in
genomics, breeding, biochemistry, entomology and engineering), academic partners and other
stakeholders. The candidate will be expected to develop an integrated, industry-focused program to
translate research outputs into practical outcomes that meet the needs of the Canadian horticulture
sector.
Vineland is an independent, not-for-profit organization that was created to be a world-class centre for
horticultural science and innovation. In its capacity to enable and foster relationships with industry,
academia and government, Vineland works to deliver premium product and production innovations.
Vineland brings a global perspective to the Canadian horticulture industry and offers a broad range of
lasting benefits to stakeholders both locally and internationally. Aligned with industry needs, Vineland’s
research priorities and outcomes are focused on the growth of the entire horticulture industry.
GENERAL OUTLINE OF POSITION:
We are looking to hire a Research Scientist to lead a research program in plant pathology that will
provide solutions for the management of key diseases in greenhouse (floriculture and edible) and
selected field crops. Working knowledge of plant resistance mechanisms (constitutive and induced) and
the ability to devise methods to test and phenotype these will be important assets. Practical experience
in molecular and conventional plant pathology techniques, the ability to apply these techniques in
greenhouse and field trials, and an ability to work with commercial partners in a diverse range of crops
is highly desirable. We seek an individual who is able to develop and deliver an industry-responsive
research program to evaluate and devise novel solutions for plant disease management, and integrate
these into plant production systems for maximum benefit and impact. Good communication skills, both
written and verbal, and an ability to effectively transfer technologies to end-users are essential.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
 Develop a research program to identify and characterize new sources of host disease resistance
in horticultural crops.
 Develop robust, high throughput disease resistance screening methods to characterize disease
resistance in Vineland breeding germplasm.
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Participate in genetic mapping of disease resistance in vegetable crops using segregating or
association mapping populations.
Investigate plant/microbe interactions to enhance the use of microorganisms and other
bioactive molecules for plant disease control, and apply appropriate methods to improve our
understanding of the role of the microbiome in plant health and performance
Establish and characterize collections of prevalent races of pathogens important to the
horticulture industry in Canada.
Provide support and advice to ongoing production research projects at Vineland, and pathology
‘input’ to the development of new technologies for early disease detection in greenhouse crops
Organize and engage in technology transfer events for industry stakeholders
Work collaboratively with researchers, clients, industry stakeholders and the internal business
development team to ensure delivery of research and business outcomes
Communicate research findings and other technical developments to stakeholders and the
wider scientific community.
QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES:
 PhD with specialization in plant pathology, preferably in horticultural crops.
 Experience in plant host resistance testing.
 Experience with collecting and isolating races of pathogens followed by race characterization.
 Ability to use both conventional and molecular techniques to the detect and diagnose plant
diseases and monitor plant responses.
 Experience with both quantitative and qualitative disease resistance detection methods and
appropriate statistical analysis of disease infection data.
 At least 2 years post-doctoral or other relevant work experience
 Demonstrated ability to secure external funds to support research activities
 Developing publication record in scientific journals and industry trade magazines
 Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders
 Leadership skills and ability to manage and train permanent, contract and seasonal staff
ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
 Be self-motivated with well developed organizational skills
 Experience working in a multidisciplinary team environment.
 Have well developed interpersonal skills and leadership qualities that enable an open,
productive and collaborative work environment
Location:
Vineland Research and Innovation Centre
4890 Victoria Avenue North
Vineland Station, Ontario, Canada, L0R 2E0
Start Date: On or before January 6, 2017
Duration: Full-time
Please Note:
Applications will be accepted until September 30, 2016.
Include:
 A cover letter explaining how your experience equips you for the activities described above.
 Curriculum vitae
 A list of at least three external referees.
Please submit your application in confidence to the attention of:
Recruitment Office
E-mail to: [email protected]
Vineland Research and Innovation Centre
4890 Victoria Avenue North, Box 4000
Vineland Station, Ontario, Canada, L0R 2E0
All those that apply will be contacted by e-mail and informed as to whether they have been chosen for
an interview or not.
For more information on Vineland Research and Innovation Centre please visit us at
www.vinelandresearch.com