Technical Officer, Crop Quantitative Genetics

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the NRC, named in 2025 one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!

As Canada’s largest research and innovation organization, our world-renowned research pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to make the impossible, possible. Every day we explore new ideas through innovative research and help companies discover possibilities that impact Canada’s future and the world.

At the NRC, you’ll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity, welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. You’ll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly, you’ll discover what’s possible within you as you grow, make valuable contributions and progress in your professional journey. From ground-breaking discoveries to a life-changing career, discover your possible at the NRC.

The role

We are looking for a Technical Officer to support our Crop Quality Genomics and Genetics team within the Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Centre (ACRD). The successful candidate would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

As part of a multidisciplinary team focused on genetic improvement of crop quality traits, the successful candidate will support collection, analysis and interpretation of genetic, genomic, and phenotypic data to identify genomic regions and genes associated with crop quality traits. Responsibilities include contributions to experiment design, planning and implementation, data analysis and interpretation to advance trait discovery and support crop improvement objectives. This position will also contribute to data management, reproducible analysis workflows, and the communication of results to help prepare the project reports and peer-reviewed publications. 

Screening criteria

Applicants must demonstrate within the content of their application that they meet the following screening criteria in order to be given further consideration as candidates:

Education

B.Sc. in Plant Science, Crop Breeding, Biology, or related discipline from a recognized university with degree coursework in genetics, plant physiology and molecular biology. 

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

Experience

• *Significant experience in crop plant population development, analyzing large populations or diversity panels, including genetic map construction, QTL mapping and GWAS, maker development and validation.
• *Significant experience using R or Python to analyze biological, genetic and genomic datasets. 
• *Significant experience with functional genomics, fine mapping, candidate gene identification and validation.
• Experience with genomic selection, genomic prediction models, or prediction of complex quantitative traits.
• Experience in the full spectrum of research activities including experimental design and execution, ability to work independently, preparing technical reports, figures, presentations, protocols

The following listed experience would be considered as an asset:

• Experience in applying machine learning methods to biological, genomic, phenotypic datasets, data integration.
• Experience with genotype-by-sequencing and/or whole-genome sequencing data analysis.
• Experience in research involving biochemistry of seeds or grains. 

*Significant experience refers to a minimum of three (3) to years of experience.

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

For a Reliability Status, verification of background information over a period of 5 years is required.

Language requirements

English 

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

Technical competencies

• Strong ability to analyze large genetic, genomic, and phenotypic datasets, including data cleaning, quality control, statistical analysis, and biological interpretation.
• Proficiency in genetic mapping approaches, including QTL mapping, genome-wide association studies, genetic map construction.
• Solid knowledge of fine mapping approaches including the development and validation of molecular markers, and validation of candidate genes.
• Proficiency in R and/or Python for data analysis, visualization, and development of reproducible analysis workflows.
• Ability to document methods, scripts, workflows, and analysis results in a clear, organized, and reproducible manner.
• Ability to write draft manuscripts and technical reports. 

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile(s): Research; 

View all competency profiles

Compensation

From $66,126 to $91,012 per annum. 

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.

Notes

• In 2025, the NRC was chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, a National Capital Region Top Employer and Forbes Canada’s Best Employer.
• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one-year period.
• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada. Please include citizenship information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.