Research and Extension Associate - Food Systems Modelling

Kwantlen Polytechnic University is hiring a Research and Extension Associate for the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems in Richmond, BC. The role involves leading food self-reliance modeling, data analysis, and preparing extension materials. Candidates should have a relevant degree, programming proficiency, and research experience. The position emphasizes collaboration within a multidisciplinary team and community engagement to enhance sustainable food systems in British Columbia.
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
This role reports to Institute for Sustainable Food Systems Director - Kent Mullinix.

SUMMARY
The Institute for Sustainable Food Systems (ISFS) is seeking applications for a Research and Extension Associate – Food Systems Modelling who will be responsible for leading the food self-reliance modelling in the bioregional food systems research project.

About ISFS
The ISFS is an applied research and extension unit at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). We investigate and support regional food systems as key elements of sustainable communities, focusing predominantly on British Columbia but also extending our programming to other regions. Our applied research focuses on the potential of regional food systems and encompasses agriculture and food, economics, community development, community health, policy, and environmental stewardship. Our extension programming provides information and support for farmers, communities, business, policy makers, and others. Community collaboration is central to our approach.

ISFS is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of researchers with expertise in food systems, agriculture, economics, farm business management, ecology, public health, extension education and other disciplines. Our office is on KPU’s Richmond campus, located at 8771 Lansdowne Road, Richmond BC. The campus is served by rapid transit (Canada Line - Lansdowne Station), by which downtown Vancouver can be reached in about 30 minutes.

More about us and our work is at https://www.kpu.ca/isfs

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Research and Extension Associate – Food Systems Modelling will be responsible for compiling and analyzing data related to BC food self-reliance capacity. This position also will be responsible for leading the preparation of extension materials and programming associated with research/sector development projects. The Associate may also, from time to time, contribute to other ISFS sustainable food system research initiatives. The primary responsibilities of this position include:

Maintain and improve ISFS food self-reliance model
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to share information and procure data
• Prepare technical reports, manuscripts and presentation materials
• Collaboration and coordination with other ISFS staff and research staff from collaborating institutions/ organizations
• Assure a safe, inclusive, amicable work environment
• Interact with various KPU administrative units (e.g. Finance, Human Resources, Office of Research Services etc.) as required
• Build effective, meaningful relationships with sector organizations and actors

QUALIFICATIONS
• The successful applicant for this position must:
• Hold a Bachelor or Master degree in computer science, earth science, or other relevant discipline
• Be proficient in programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, C++
• Have qualitative and quantitative research experience and training
• Have strong interpersonal communication skills
• Have demonstrated their ability to work with a high degree of autonomy and with a multi-disciplinary team
• The following will be considered assets:
• Knowledge of the agriculture and food system landscape of BC.
• Have strong writing skills demonstrated by their lay and/or academic publication record
• Experience with project development and management.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualize a complex project and effectively plan and execute steps to complete it.
• Grant writing experience and/or training.
• Salary Information

Anticipated hourly pay rate: $17.85 - $21.60