Arthropod Taxonomic Specialists (10 positions)
Department / Academic Unit: Centre for Biodiversity Genomics
Description of the Area/Topic of Research
The Centre for Biodiversity Genomics (CBG) is seeking ten (10) highly qualified taxonomic specialists to join us in leading a global mission to register all multicellular species.
Description of Centre
Operating in coordination with research organizations across 41 nations, the CBG is advancing species discovery, knowledge of ecological interactions and distributions through DNA sequencing, machine learning, and data science. With over 3 million specimens analyzed annually and a fully databased archive exceeding 15 million barcoded specimens, the CBG provides an unparalleled environment for impactful work in biodiversity science. As a Major Science Initiative supported by the Canada Foundation for Innovation, it is key component of Canada’s national research infrastructure. For more background on the CBG, visit www.biodiversitygenomics.net.
The Centre for Biodiversity Genomics supports a culture of inclusion as an organizational imperative. In alignment with priorities at the University of Guelph, it particularly encourages applications from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in science.
General Outline of Duties
Successful candidates will aid the analysis and interpretation of DNA barcode results with a focus on advancing taxonomic assignments for voucher specimens. This work is supported by a robust informatics infrastructure and a dedicated team of technical staff. It involves access to datasets with broad geographic and taxonomic scope and collaborations with leading Canadian and international researchers in biodiversity, genomics, AI, and computer science. These positions provide an exceptional opportunity for interdisciplinary training, international collaboration, and high-impact research.
Teaching Requirement: no
Student/Employee Supervision: no
Required Qualifications
Applicants must have strong expertise in the taxonomy of terrestrial arthropods. Preference will be given to individuals with broad knowledge of Collembola or any of the following insect orders - Blattodea, Ephemeroptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera (particularly Chalcidoidea and Formicidae), Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Trichoptera). Aside from taxonomic expertise, a background in molecular biology (e.g., DNA barcoding, metabarcoding, molecular evolution) and/or bioinformatics will be a great asset. Successful candidates will ordinarily possess a PhD, but individuals with a MSc will be considered if they bring very relevant expertise.
Start Date & Duration of Appointment: 2 year appointments, October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2027, Start date is flexible. This appointment is renewable based on funding availability and project needs.
Anticipated Hours/Days of Work (at time of posting): 40 hours a week
Salary Range (Minimum): 62,500
Salary Range (Maximum): 70,000
Benefits: Link to benefits information
At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification and inclusion.
Application Requirements
Documents (Single PDF):
- Cover Letter – 2-page letter of interest (outlining key skills and background)
- CV
- Summary of Research Experience
- Contact details for two references
Details
To apply: Candidates should submit a 2-page letter of interest (outlining key skills and background), a full CV, and contact details for two references in a single PDF.
Supervisor: Dr. Paul Hebert
Contact Information
Submit applications to:
Kevin Kerr, Research Director
kkerr@uoguelph.ca
+1-519-824-4120 x54834
www.biodiversitygenomics.net
Posting Date: Thu, 07/24/2025
Closing Date: Mon, 09/15/2025 (Review of applications will commence on September 15, 2025)