Full time, two-year term position
Location: Prairie Swine Centre, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Start date: Immediately, or by arrangement in early 2027.
About the role: The Prairie Swine Centre is seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Research Assistant to support the implementation of scientific studies investigating pig welfare under farming conditions. This hands-on role would work within the swine ethology and welfare group and involves working directly with pigs and assisting with all aspects of research management. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to meaningful scientific research that will help improve pig welfare in practice, while gaining experience in applied animal welfare research.
Key responsibilities: Support accurate data collection, observe and evaluate animal behaviour, live animal work – handling and moving pigs and physiological data collection, including blood samples, laboratory analysis, data analysis and writing of research reports. Collaborative work with program students and researchers to support ongoing research activities.
The ideal candidate:
- Has a minimum of a BSc in animal science or associated subject
- Has a strong work ethic and ability to work independently
- Has knowledge of scientific methods and experience with data collection
- Is detail oriented, reliable, patient and takes pride in performing their job well
- Is cooperative and flexible in teamwork, with strong interpersonal skills
- Has excellent oral and written communication skills in English
- Technical expertise or experience in pig welfare is advantageous but not essential.
- Must hold a valid driving license and have access to a vehicle to travel to the Prairie Swine Centre
Wage: Competitive wage and will increase dependent on skill set.
About the swine ethology and welfare group: With team members based at the Prairie Swine Centre and the University of Saskatchewan, we are a diverse, passionate and highly active research group committed to conducting high-quality science to advance the welfare of farmed pigs. Read more about the Prairie Swine Centre and our research at swinewelfare.com
Applications: Please submit a current CV including contact details of two references,
and a half-page cover letter indicating your motivation to apply for this position to Dr.
Yolande Seddon, Yolande.seddon@usask.ca
or
Dr. Jen-Yun Chou, jenyun.chou@usask.ca
at the above e-mail, including in the subject heading Research Assistant Position: and
whether you are applying for the full or part-time position.
Deadline: December 4th 2026.
Full pdf of the advertisement can be found here
