Position Overview
This role’s function is to conduct genetics and genomics research of wildlife species, including producing new data sets and analyzing existing data sets. The focus is on research that furthers the understanding and enhancing genetic diversity of zoo and conservation breeding populations, as well as developing standardized methods to measure and monitor genetic diversity of species. An emphasis is placed on Canadian species at risk, and those for which ex situ management has been identified as a necessary tool to support in situ recovery efforts. The successful candidate will work closely with other staff in the Research Department, animal care staff, veterinarians, and external research collaborators.
Duties and Key Responsibilities
· Lead development of new genetic/genomic and pedigree-based population management research; support existing research projects in these fields
· Upload, organize, and manage large data sets
· Apply statistical methods to analyze genetic and pedigree data and develop population and genetic management strategies for captive animal populations at African Lion Safari and other CAZA facilities
· Communicate finds to other ALS departments and external collaborators
· Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, present at relevant conferences and contribute to the scientific and zoological community through written and oral communication
· Provide expertise in conservation genomics and pedigree-based population management to support decision-making processes related to breeding, reintroduction and genetic diversity conservation efforts
· Engage with zoo visitors and stakeholders to communicate research findings, promoting awareness of the importance of conservation at zoological facilities
· Participate in education and outreach programs centered on the importance of genomics in conservation and biodiversity monitoring
· Perform literature reviews to stay updated on advancement in genomics, biodiversity monitoring and conservation biology to apply the latest methodologies and technologies in research projects and for use in population management
· Organize and help run conservation genomics workshops
· Mentor and guide junior research staff, interns, and students, fostering a collaborative and supportive research environment
· Liaise with external organizations, research institutions and conservation partners to enhance collaborative efforts and use resources for genomic and population management research initiatives
· Collaborate with academic institutions
· Foster a culture of continuous learning and knowledge exchange
· Attend appropriate training courses as required
Required Qualifications & Skills
· Master’s degree or equivalent experience in conservation genomics or conservation biology
· Experience planning and conducting research projects
· Experience analyzing genomic datasets and bioinformatics
· Background in population management (pedigree-based management), population genetics and conservation genetics theory
· Experience conducting lab work, including DNA extraction, PCR and electrophoresis gels
· Excellent computer skills, including work processing and spreadsheet applications, and specialized software for data analysis
· Strong organizational skills
· Strong interpersonal skills and willingness to work in a collaborative team
· Strong oral and written communication skills
· Ontario G license or equivalent with a good driving record
· Knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Information System (WHIMIS) legislation, the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act
· Must be capable of meeting the physical demands of the position
· Must be willing to work on and off site as well as weekends and holidays if needed
Pay: $25.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
