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The Prairie Swine Centre is seeking a highly-motivated individual who is looking to develop a career in livestock environment research. Prairie Swine Centre is an internationally-recognized swine research organization affiliated with the University of Saskatchewan. It is located 8 km east of the city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada (Company website: www.prairieswine.com)

PRIMARY PURPOSE: The Research Assistant or Associate (Post-doc) is responsible for overseeing all aspects of implementation of specific research projects and for ensuring that the day-to-day research activities necessary to attain the objectives of the PSC Engineering Research program are carried out properly and in a timely fashion.

NATURE OF WORK: The Research Assistant or Associate (depending on qualifications of selected applicant) reports to the Research Scientist – Engineering and will be responsible for planning, implementing, and managing the day-to-day research activities for on-going research projects on evaluation of occupational exposure of workers in livestock barns and assessment of water conservation measures for livestock production operations. The work requires both mental and physical abilities to carry out key responsibilities either independently or while working with a team in a livestock research barn facility. In addition, the incumbent will assist the Research Scientist – Engineering in ensuring that all aspects of the research activities within the PSC Engineering Research program are implemented properly and in a timely fashion.

KEY DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct comprehensive literature review and develop experimental set-up and protocols including instrumentation and monitoring systems
• Implement established protocols in conducting experiments and collecting data and research samples from an animal production research facility
• Analyze, synthesize and interpret experimental results using scientific and/or statistical techniques
• Prepare reports and publications, and present findings at scientific and industry meetings
• Manage project resources, including budget, personnel, and associated materials and equipment
• Supervise casual staff and/or students in carrying out experiments and the proper use of instruments/equipment
• Assist in providing proper care and handling of animals on experiment

• Additional functions related to PSC Engineering Research program activities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience: Minimum post-secondary degree, preferably a M.Sc. or Ph.D. in the field of engineering, agriculture, or environment, or related technical disciplines. At least 6 months experience in a position with similar responsibilities is preferred. Experience working with animals would be an asset but not required.

Skills: Good working knowledge of principles and operation of analytical and testing instruments (electronic sensors, gas analyzers, thermocouples, flow metering devices) and electronic datalogging systems are essential. Familiarity with monitoring air quality (gases, dust, odour) and thermal environment (temperature, humidity, airflow) in livestock environment are desirable. The candidate must have demonstrated aptitude to learn and follow strict experimental procedures, good interpersonal and communication skills, and ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. The incumbent should have a solid work ethic and the ability to organize, prioritize, and plan work schedules accordingly. A valid driving license, and physical ability to perform moderate physical labour are required.

EMPLOYMENT TERMS: Starting salary between $30,268 to $40,357 per year plus eligible benefits, commensurate with education and experience. Term appointment for 2 years, with possibility of renewal.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
This position is available immediately and will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected; review of applications will commence on February 05, 2010. Inquiries and/or applications including a cover letter, resume and contact information of 3 references should be directed to:
Dr. Bernardo Predicala, Research Scientist – Engineering, Prairie Swine Centre Inc., P.O. Box 21057, 2105 – 8th Street East, Saskatoon, SK, S7H 5N9. Phone (306) 667-7444; FAX (306) 955-2510; email: bernardo.predicala@usask.ca