The Bennett Lab at the University of Saskatchewan, Department of Plant Sciences is looking for a Molecular Technician to join our diverse group on a fixed-term contract to cover maternity leave.
Primary Purpose: The successful individual will join a set of highly collaborative, and well-funded projects exploring multi-trophic interactions in grassland ecosystems and identifying management interventions that can enhance the associated ecosystem services.
Nature of Work: Our group’s focus in these projects will be on understanding how the species and genetic composition of plant assemblages influence soil microbial communities and the consequences of those relationships for multiple ecosystem services. We will explore these questions using observational studies, and field and greenhouse experiments.
Typical Duties or Accountabilities: The technician will be responsible for conducting sample processing, primarily for DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation of soil and insect samples, but also for other measurements on plant and soil samples (e.g., NIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis). The successful applicant will be expected to coordinate sample collection and pre-processing among multiple research groups. As such, strong interpersonal and organizational skills will be needed.
Required Education & Experience: An MSc in ecology, agriculture, microbiology, soil science, entomology, or another relevant field, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. This experience must include DNA extraction & purification, and DNA library preparation for sequencing.
Other Desired Experience: Experience with high throughput extraction protocols, long-read sequencing, and bioinformatics. Experience with NIR spectroscopy and elemental analysis.
Skills: Candidates must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English. This position requires motivated, reliable and well-organized individuals able to work in a multi-disciplinary group environment.
To Apply:
Interested applicants must include a cover letter as well as a CV. Application review will begin immediately, and positions will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. The ideal start date for this position is October 1st, 2026. Consequently, early availability is considered an asset.
Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Bahati Chisala-Nyekanyeka at [email protected].
Department: Plant Sciences
Status: Term 1 year
Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $23.53 - 32.94 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 5
Posted Date: 8/21/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus
The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.
