This is an interdisciplinary position to facilitate data collection and management processes (as requested by the Canadian Council on Animal Care - CCAC) at Macdonald Campus Farm units (Lods Agronomy Research Centre, Dairy Unit, Field Crop Unit, Poultry Unit, Large Animal Research Unit and the Horticulture Research Center).
Agricultural Research Data Academic Associate
Position Summary
This is an interdisciplinary position to facilitate data collection and management processes (as requested
by the Canadian Council on Animal Care - CCAC) at Macdonald Campus Farm units (Lods Agronomy
Research Centre, Dairy Unit, Field Crop Unit, Poultry Unit, Large Animal Research Unit and the
Horticulture Research Center). This is non-tenure-track position. The position provides a link between
academic staff, farm management and students to coordinate research involving diverse data arising
from all farm units and to develop and promote the Farm to broader communities.
Duties and Responsibilities
Facilitate research activities in all Macdonald farm units. Liaise between the farm
personnel/management and researchers and, coordinate research activities and planning. Discuss the
impact of research on Farm operations and how the Farm can accommodate its operations to facilitate
high impact research. Assemble and organize contemporary and historical data pertaining to the
Macdonald Farm (CCAC requirements: Animal; Field Data) Manage use of and data collection from
specialized equipment that is not related to a specific research project. Develop and maintain an on-line
data repository to enable students and researchers to access information applicable to current and
future research and educational activities. Maintain and coordinate infrastructure projects (e.g. CFI;
MEI) Coach farm personnel as well as HQP’s dealing with Macdonald Farm data related to their research
projects (both crop and animal production). Keep records, coordinate and supply data-driven
recommendations to optimize Macdonald Campus land use to support research activities. Organize
workshops and coordinate Farm demonstrations for the Agriculture sector Help develop and promote
the Farm mission to broader communities and assist in identifying opportunities and partners (e.g.
MAPAQ, UPA; other organisations). Develop and maintain the contents of the Farm website.
Education and Experience
PhD (or an excellent MSc with thesis) in Agricultural Sciences or Engineering.
Experience in acquisition and management of agricultural production data.
Other Qualifying Skills and Abilities
The proposed Agricultural Research Data Academic Associate must:
- Be qualified for collection and analysis of data from animal, plant, soil and geo-sensing
- Be an experienced manager of geospatial and other agricultural data (field and animal records)
- Possess excellent database organization skills and the ability to lead in the development of an on-line repository.
- Be familiar with digital and smart technologies supporting animal and crop production
- Have a valid Quebec driver’s license.
- Have strong oral and written English and French communication skills
Eligibility for membership in the “Ordre des Agronomes du Québec (OAQ)” is highly beneficial.
Background in remote sensing imagery is an asset.
Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Applications including a cover letter and c.v. will be accepted in Workday.
Knowledge Base Guide on how to apply for external applicants: https://www.mcgill.ca/hr/files/hr/workday_guide_for_candidates_extenal_eng.pdf
Knowledge Base Guide on how to apply for internal applicants: https://www.mcgill.ca/hr/files/hr/workday_guide_for_candidates_internal_eng.pdf
Deadline to apply: July 31, 2021
