MSc Graduate Student in haskap berry firmness and storability improvement

Research Focus: The USask Fruit Program invites applications for an MSc Graduate Student position under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Anže Švara. The successful candidate will contribute to research focused on characterizing haskap (Lonicera caerulea) genetic resources maintained in the USask Fruit germplasm for their fruit firmness, quality, and their storage capacity. The specific focus will be on further characterizing and advancing fruit firmness in combination with other fruit quality traits. This research will leverage advanced fruit phenotyping and genotyping techniques in combination with image acquisition and developing genetic analysis of fruit firmness in haskap. The work will take place in the lab, greenhouse, field and computational settings.

Nature of Work: Combination of field, greenhouse, lab, and computer.

Accountabilities: The successful graduate student will play a key role in streamlining and advancing the research and breeding efforts of the USask Fruit Program. They will join a dynamic team of plant breeders and horticultural scientists, focusing on genetic research that supports the breeding program. Responsibilities will include setting up plant experiments, data collection, development of data processing and phenotyping and genotyping pipelines, and implementation of scalable workflows to enable high-throughput phenotyping and genotyping data analysis. In addition, the student will plan and execute experiments, collaborate with stakeholders, and contribute to the dissemination of results through both scientific and public communication channels. They will work closely with project partners, growers, industry representatives, and other collaborators involved in the project. We are seeking a motivated team player who is committed to fostering a supportive and collegial work environment by helping to organize and participate in various lab events.

Minimum qualifications: To meet the eligibility criteria and apply for this position consult the “Future graduate students” website of the University of Saskatchewan: https://grad.usask.ca/programs/plant-sciences.php

Preferred qualifications: Background in horticulture in combination with genetic analysis, or programing skills. Experience with working in field, greenhouse, lab, and computational setting would be considered an asset.  Strong communication and writing skills are essential. Additionally, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to plan and work independently while meeting tight deadlines and collaborating effectively within a team. Possession of a valid Class 5 driver’s license is also preferred.

To Apply: All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. The University of Saskatchewan is committed to the principles of employment equity. The University encourages applications from qualified Aboriginal people, persons with a disability, racially visible persons, and women. 

Interested applicants should send an email containing a brief cover letter, a CV, and contact information of two references, academic transcripts, any additional questions to:

Prof. Anže Švara

Subject: MSc Graduate Student Application on haskap firmness

Email: anze.svara@usask.ca 

Department: Plant Sciences

Location: University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK  

Status: Term Employment 

Group: MSc Graduate Student 

Stipend: According to the Department of Plant Sciences Standards

Posted Date: 20/08/2025 

Closing Date: Until filled. 

Number of Openings: 1

Work Location: On Campus 

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan. 

 

Fruit Germplasm Coordinator, College of Agriculture & Bioresources

Primary Purpose: The University of Saskatchewan Fruit Program invites applications for a fruit germplasm manager position in the USask horticulture group under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Anže Švara. This is a two-year full-time term position (2026-2028) with a possibility of extension for another year. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in adding value to the impact of horticulture programs while elevating the global recognition of the diverse northern germplasm at USask. This unique germplasm has been in high demand globally and the fruit program is the northernmost breeding program in North America. This position would elevate and streamline the development and maintenance of a world-class germplasm collection, enabling cutting-edge horticulture research, breeding, and outreach while adding value to horticulture classes. The manager would have opportunity to work alongside the existing staff and students to enable knowledge transfer at the intersection of teaching, science, industry, and outreach fostering collaborations with national and international institutions, companies, growers, and local communities. Beyond technical responsibilities, this position offers professional growth through publications and extension activities (e.g. Ag in motion, horticulture days, fruit day, plant sales, grafting, budding and pruning workshops, fruit fundraisers, etc.), while contributing to innovation and knowledge transfer benefiting both academia and the horticulture industry

Nature of Work: The Horticulture Field Facility is located on the University of Saskatchewan main campus, 2909 14th St. E., Saskatoon, SK, Canada and is composed of approximately 30 hectares of land, the majority of which is dedicated to perennial fruit crops. During spring, summer, and fall, this position will mainly be focused on field tasks, data collection, and only partially on administrative, education, and extension tasks. During the winter season, most of the activities will be conducted indoors, focusing on plant inventory development, propagation, digitalization of germplasm and breeding records, outreach, education, and administration. A minor part of the work will be conducted outdoors focusing on checking orchards, plant health and protection.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

  • Lead the maintenance and cataloguing of diverse fruit germplasm collections, including:
    • Haskap
    • Saskatoon berry
    • Sour cherry
    • Pome fruits
    • Hazelnuts
    • Grapes
    • Other northern‑adapted crops
  • Oversee supporting infrastructure related to germplasm collections.
  • Improve and manage plant maintenance systems, including:
    • Systematic orchard rejuvenation (pruning, propagating, planting, removing accessions)
    • Mechanical, chemical, and manual weeding
  • Ensure plant health through appropriate plant protection strategies.
  • Establish and maintain essential plant infrastructure (trellises, irrigation systems, fences).
  • Implement and manage a digital plant‑traceability and data‑collection system to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
  • Support program activities through:
    • Basic plant management
    • Registration trials
    • Collecting and shipping plant material
    • Compliance with biosecurity standards and intellectual property agreements
  • Collaborate with research technicians, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduate students participating in USask Fruit Program projects.
  • Contribute to educational, extension, and outreach initiatives such as:
    • Field days
    • Workshops
    • Fundraising events
    • Fruit‑related courses
    • Industry‑driven demonstration projects
  • Act as a team player, supporting research and community engagement through work that showcases program innovations and expertise.

Education:

  • Degree in horticulture (or a closely related field).
  • Availability to begin work in the first half of 2026.

Licenses:

  • Valid pesticide applicator license, or the ability to obtain one.
  • Valid Class 5 driver’s license.

Experience:

  • Experience in fruit plant and orchard maintenance and field research is preferred.
  • Experience with operating field machinery is an asset.
  • Demonstrated practical experience and hands‑on skills working with fruit crops.

Skills:

  • Strong proficiency in English and basic computational/digital skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively, while meeting tight deadlines.
  • Capacity to perform physical work in field, greenhouse, laboratory, and computer‑based environments.

Apply here:

https://usask.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/14/home?c=usask

 https://usask.csod.com/ui/internal-career-site/app/job-details/14932

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Anze.Svara@usask.ca. Interested candidates should include a brief cover letter (maximum 1 page), a CV, contact information for two references, and academic transcripts to their application.

 

Department: College of Agriculture & Bioresources
Status: Term 2 years with the possibility of extension
Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $42,824.60 - 68,515.20 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 5
Posted Date: 4/2/2026
Closing Date: 5/13/2026
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.

 

 

 

Interested in joining?

We’re always excited to connect with passionate individuals interested in fruit research and innovation. If you have your own funding and would like to collaborate or contribute to our work, we’d love to hear from you! Reach out anytime to explore opportunities with us.