Phycology Research Officer

Your Challenge
IMB requires a Research Officer to develop a creative, world-class research program in marine algal physiology and biochemistry consistent with IMB’s mandate as a genomics, marine bioscience and advanced technology institute which engages with the wider research community locally, nationally and internationally. This position is designed to catalyze and support development of a regional cluster based on research excellence in marine bioscience and biotechnology.

The candidate will undertake studies aimed at understanding marine plant physiology/biochemistry in order to address key issues relating to the mass production of marine plants/algae for commercial purposes. These could include, but need not be limited to, the following: stress responses and plant hormones; the interaction of microorganisms including microalgae as pathogens, parasites or commensal organisms with marine plants, biochemical pathways involved in secondary metabolite production, functional genomics/proteomics studies relating to marine plant physiology; processing of marine algae for food uses, cosmetics, nutraceuticals or novel applications.

The successful candidate will conduct independent research as well as participate in team projects. Liaison and collaboration with other NRC Institutes, such as the Plant Biotechnology Institute and the Institute for Nutrisciences and Health, will be strongly encouraged, as will interaction with regional groups engaging in marine bioproducts research and commercial development, to ensure that research impacts are maximized. The successful candidate will be encouraged to seek adjunct status with one or more collaborating university departments.

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
A Ph.D. in plant physiology or plant biochemistry.

For alternate qualifications please refer to equivalency heading below.

Experience
Postdoctoral or equivalent experience in physiology and biochemistry of plants (marine plants/algae would be an asset).
Practical experience in advanced biochemical and/or molecular biological technologies as applied to plant physiology.
Demonstrated experience with plant hormone chemistry/metabolism .
Demonstrated experience in supervising technical staff and/or students.
Experience in developing and securing grants and/or contracts.
Demonstrated experience in working on collaborative projects with industrial, government or academic partners.

Equivalency
Individuals who possess an equivalent combination of experience and education will also be considered.

Condition of Employment
Enhanced Reliability Check

Language Requirements
English

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

Technical Competencies:
Advanced knowledge of plant biochemistry or natural products chemistry.
Knowledge of physiology and biochemistry of plants as keys to high production systems for biomass generation.
Knowledge of agricultural plants as they respond to stress and hormone applications.
Knowledge of biochemistry of marine algae relating to methods of processing for food uses, cosmetics, nutraceuticals and novel applications.
Ability to conceive and conduct high quality original and independent research.
Ability to assume a leadership role within a project including supervision of other personnel.
Ability to interact effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment and to manage multidisciplinary scientific projects.
Demonstrated ability to write quality research papers for publication in journals, and to present oral research seminars and posters at conferences as well as presentations to partners and stakeholders.
Knowledge of intellectual property and its protection.
Knowledge of the various funding sources in Canada and internationally, and demonstration of an ability to develop research grant proposals, independently or in teams.
Demonstrated ability to manage all aspects of an independent laboratory.

Behavioural Competencies:
Creative Thinking - Level 4
Partnering - Level 3
Communication - Level 3
Results Orientation - Level 3
Initiative - Level 3
Teamwork - Level 3
Developing Others - Level 3
Business Understanding - Level 3
Client Focus - Level 3

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

All competency profiles are available at: http://careers-carrieres.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/Careers/jobpost.nsf/Profiles4Externals_E.

Relocation
Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with NRC's directives.

Salary Range
This position is classified as a Research Officer (RO), a group that is unique to the NRC. The RO group uses a person-based classification system instead of the more common duties-based classification system. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, skill, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $49,489 to $116,915 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions. In addition, an incumbent occupying a position within the RO Groups is currently entitled to receive a terminable allowance of $8,000 per year.

Closing Date
10/31/2006 (6 days)

Notes
These positions are being advertised internally and externally simultaneously; however, first consideration will be given to internal applicants.

To Apply	All applications must be submitted on-line.  Please do not fax or email your applications. By applying over the web, your application becomes available to managers immediately. Applications must be received no later than the closing date. You should also be prepared to attach your résumé into the online application form in one of the following formats: Microsoft Word 2000 or earlier Rich Text Format (RTF) ASCII text As an employer who values diversity in its workforce, we encourage candidates to self-identify as members of the following designated groups: women, visible minorities, aboriginal peoples and persons with disabilities. Accommodation is available to all candidates retained for further assessment. Please review useful instructions before applying online.
To obtain a copy of the job description	Please direct your questions, with the competition number (63-06-11) to: IMB HR Team / Équipe RH d'IBM E-mail: hrb.imbcomp.int@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca Telephone: (902) 426-6408