Research Assistant II - Population Medicine

General Purpose

The Department of Population Medicine is seeking a motivated and organized Field Research Technician to support innovative dairy health management research projects. This position offers a unique opportunity to work directly with dairy producers, researchers, graduate students, and industry partners while contributing to meaningful research that advances animal health and productivity.

Duties and Responsibilities

Field Research and Sample Collection (90%)

• Conduct on-farm visits to commercial dairy farms to collect research data and biological samples.
• Safely handle and restrain adult dairy cattle during sampling and data collection activities. 
• Collect blood samples and maintain accurate records of observations and research data.
• Process blood samples, including centrifuging, serum separation, labeling, and preparation for laboratory analysis.
• Coordinate farm visits and research vehicle schedules.
• Work collaboratively with faculty, graduate students, technicians, and research assistants on multiple projects.
• Ensure research protocols are followed accurately and consistently.
• Assist with laboratory procedures, including running ELISA assay kits and plate analyses when required.

Research Support and Administration (10%)

• Enter and maintain research data in computer databases. 
• Communicate with participating dairy producers to arrange project visits and sampling schedules. 
• Maintain inventory of research and laboratory supplies.
• Assist with ordering supplies and coordinating project logistics.
• Support project administration and routine clerical activities as needed.

Requirements

• Diploma in Agriculture, Animal Health Technology, Veterinary Technology, or a related field.
• Knowledge of dairy cattle production, management, and housing systems.
• Demonstrated ability to safely handle and work with adult dairy cattle.
• Experience collecting blood samples from dairy cattle. 
• Valid Ontario Class G driver's licence with the ability to travel regularly to dairy farms. 
• Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. 
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• BSc in Agriculture, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience with DairyComp 305.
• Previous laboratory experience, particularly ELISA assays and sample processing.
• Experience coordinating projects involving multiple stakeholders and schedules.

Working Conditions

This role involves extensive time on commercial dairy farms and requires:

• Frequent travel to farms, typically 3 to 5 visits per week. 
• Work in varying weather conditions and barn environments. 
• Early morning starts and occasional work outside regular business hours.
• Working around large animals and farm equipment.