Western Crop Innovations (WCI) is the future of crop innovation in Canada. This federally registered not for profit organization began operations April 1, 2024. It is carrying on the rich history of the Field Crop Development Centre which has been developing new higher yielding and more climate and disease resistant varieties of cereal grains since 1973 at its lab and research farm in Lacombe, Alberta.

The Digital Phenotyping Technologist plays a pivotal role in advancing the efficiency and precision of field breeding operations. Reporting to the Research Scientist – Barley Breeding, this position focuses on the digitization of crop phenotyping processes to enhance the development of superior barley and triticale varieties. The successful candidate will leverage cutting-edge digital technologies to accelerate genetic selection and provide critical data to optimize farm operations. This role is integral to implementing the WCI Business Plan and improving land management practices through innovative research and technology.

Job Type: This is a full-time role (36.25 hrs per week) for a one-year term with the opportunity of extension.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Deploy digital technologies for crop phenotyping, including image analysis of breeding plots and processing images into interpretable data.
• Conduct statistical analysis to link digital phenotypic data with plant traits to support the selection of superior barley and triticale varieties.
• Develop a protocol for automated phenotyping.
• Implement the WCI Business Plan through advanced digital tools.
• Provide high-quality data to guide farm operations in effective field and plot layout management.
• Collaborate with other research units within WCI and external partners.
• Support overall barley and triticale breeding efforts at WCI.

Experience and qualifications:

• BSc in Digital Agriculture, Plant Science, Agronomy, Crop Science, Biostatistics, or a related field
• 2 years' experience in digital phenotyping or related agriculture research
• Strong background in statistics and research data analysis
• Proficiency in using digital tools and technologies for data collection and analysis
• Experience working with barley, triticale, or similar crops is an asset
• Knowledge of agriculture and farming background is an asset
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a research team
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Familiarity with field and plot layout for agricultural research
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously

What we offer:

• Competitive base salary
• Twenty two (22) days of vacation
• 6 paid wellness days each year
• Immediate access to employer paid Group Benefits including Health and Dental coverage and Short-Term Disability (Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance premiums are paid by the employee), eligible upon hire

Western Crop Innovations supports a diverse and inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.