Job Description

True NorthAs the largest post-secondary institution in northern Alberta, Northwestern Polytechnic is a natural point of convergence for knowledge, skills, creativity, and collaboration.Striving to spark and empower success, NWP's mission is geared towards both individual and collective progress. NWP offers a wide variety of engaging and in-demand academic programs in certificates, diplomas, apprenticeships, and degrees.We exist wholeheartedly for the domestic and international students who call our campuses home, the distinctive communities and industries we serve, and the staff and faculty who honour us with their expertise and insights every day.While our potential as one of Alberta's newest polytechnics is ever-growing, we recognize the importance of having authentic and highly effective contributors by our side. We are currently recruiting individuals who are inspired by opportunity, driven by results, and aligned to NWP's core values of being responsive, innovative, and connected.Finding your fit in one of our specialized schools or departments means a bright future with competitive compensation, attractive benefits packages, reliable networks, high quality of life, and unparalleled learning community experiences.If you are looking to transform the post-secondary landscape with polytechnic education, research, and partnerships, Northwestern Polytechnic is your employer of choice.The DepartmentNational Bee Diagnostic Centre - Technology Access Centre (NBDC-TAC) is a research initiative of the School of Applied Research at Northwestern Polytechnic (formerly GPRC) which provides diagnostic services for researchers, beekeepers, and agencies across Canada with the aim to contribute towards a healthy, sustainable and profitable apiculture in Canada. NBDC-TAC is seeking to hire a summer student to work at our state-of-the-art laboratory in Beaverlodge, Alberta to assist with honey bee research.The RoleThis position will be full time for 18 weeks at 35 hours of work per week, starting May 1, 2025. The summer student will perform a series of basic duties in the lab and must be able to follow standard operational procedures, be meticulous and well organized. The successful candidate will be responsible for labeling, storing and preparing samples for analysis, including entering information into the database. Sample analysis will require common techniques used in microscopy, microbiology and molecular biology. The lab assistant will also perform other research duties including: assembling sampling kits, preparing outreach material (posters and presentations) and online literature searches summarizing information on honey bee biology, pathogens and diagnostics.The employee will be part of a research team for a project focused on bee health in the Alberta Peace Region. The employee will learn standard laboratory practices and work with a team to prepare insect specimens for analysis, process bee specimens and perform diagnostic tests for pathogens and diseases. Sample analysis will require common techniques used in microscopy, microbiology, and molecular biology. The employee will learn data entry and data analysis techniques using digital software (e.g. Excel, R). Once trained, the employee will also have opportunities to teach laboratory methods to student interns. The employee will also participate in workshops for beekeepers and the broader community as part of our outreach initiativesJob RequirementsSkills / AbilitiesWe are seeking a candidate that has a minimum of a first year biology course and some laboratory experience is required. Basic computer skills are desirable: i.e. database programs and Microsoft Office Suite. Necessary skills and attributes to be successful in this role include:Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills;Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining a high standard quality;Knowledge of sterile techniques;Capable of following directions and protocols with precision and rigour;Cooperate effectively in a team setting but also independently with minimum supervision;excellent communication and interpersonal skills; anda post-secondary student that is currently enrolled in a science program and will be returning to their studies in the fall.The candidate will also be highly motivated, possess excellent time-management skills, and MUST be free from known honey bee allergies.How to ApplyOnly applications received electronically will be considered. To apply, go to http://www.nwpolytech.ca/careers and select the job posting.We review all applications to select candidates whose qualifications and experience most closely meet our needs.Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. For general inquiries, please contact HR at humanresources@nwpolytech.ca.Appointment Date From:5/1/2025Appointment Date To:8/29/2025Salary Grade$0.00 - $0.00Organizational UnitNorthwestern Polytechnic -> School of Applied Research and Innovation -> Office of Research & InnovationLocationBeaverlodge, AB T0H 0C0 CA (Primary)

Northwestern Polytechnic