RAP Student – Food Microbiomics

RAP Student – Food Microbiomics - Research Affiliate Program

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - Science and Technology Branch

Closing date : January 16, 2026 - 23 : 59, Pacific Time

Reference number

AGR25J-183034-000006 Selection process number

25-AGR-RAP-58 Location

Summerland (British Columbia) Employment tenure

The projected start date is April 1st 2026 with an end date of December 22nd 2028 (or depending on the candidate's availability or needs). It is expected that the student will work 20 to 25 hours per week with the possibility of part-time extension. Salary

$25.17 to $31.69 per hour - Varies as per the level of education and experience. 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. Organization information

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About the position

Duties

The research areas of the MSc student include microbiome characterization of spoilage bacteria, predominantly Pseudomonads, in various food processing facilities, characterization of Pseudomonas biofilm formation and investigation of Pseudomonas biofilms using novel inactivation techniques. Specific duties include, but are not limited to :

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.

The food microbiology program at the Summerland Research & Development Centre is led by Dr. Karen Fong and conducts research to ensure the safety and security of the Canadian food supply. The Summerland Research & Development Centre is one of 20 research centres in Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada’s national network. Established in 1914, it is in the heart of the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. Under the supervision of Dr. Fong, the student is expected to perform independent research in the Food Microbiology laboratories, one of which is a containment-level II laboratory that they will work from. The student will also have opportunities to work with other graduate and undergraduate students. Work in the field, the laboratory and at the computer is to be expected. Positions to be filled

1 Important messages

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.

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.

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Operational Requirements

You need (essential for the job)

Your application must clearly explain how you meet the following Education :

Candidate must be enrolled now, or will be enrolled by the date of the appointment, in a master's program at a recognized postsecondary institution with a specialization in

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Experience :

Language requirements (essential for the job)

Applied / assessed at a later date English essential - You are entitled to participate in the selection process in the official language of your choice.

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Our commitment

We're 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 below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

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Equity, diversity and inclusion

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

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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.

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