Department: Sector Innovation & Programs Reports to: Associate VP, Sector Innovation & Programs Deadline for applications:

Scope of Position: February 28, 2022

Ontario Genomics leads the application of genomics and engineering biology-based solutions across key sectors of Ontario’s economy to drive economic growth, improved quality of life and global leadership. Our sectors include but are not limited to health, agriculture, agri-food, natural resources, environment or bioproducts and advanced manufacturing.

Reporting to the Associate VP, Sector Innovation and Programs and under the guidance of the leadership team, the Sector Innovation & Research Program Advisor- Level 1 is responsible for supporting strategies in sector(s) relevant to Ontario’s bio-economy to achieve the deliverables as set out by the Ontario Genomics strategic plan.

This role builds effective relationships and connects, enables and works with leading academics and diverse partners/partner organizations in sector(s) to prepare and submit high quality applications to Genome Canada, Ontario Genomics and/or other funding initiatives, and to enhance Ontario Genomics visibility and profile in the community.

The role acts as main point of contact for programs and/or funded project teams and is responsible for monitoring programs/projects to assess their progress and maximize outcomes.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities:

Funding Competitions and Projects (40%)

• Sources and develops projects and works with academics and stakeholders to help teams prepare and submit high quality applications to Genome Canada and Ontario Genomics funding initiatives
• Fosters relationships, facilitates meetings, and communicates effectively with project teams, the lead institutions and other partners
• Works with project teams to assist with problem solving, risk management and collaborations in order to increase chance of success
• Works with projects as investments and as such works with teams to expand on success both during and post-project through new opportunities, partnerships, initiatives, etc.

Project Oversight and Support (40%)

• Launches new research projects by facilitating project start-up activities, including agreement development and execution, finalization of project budgets, work plans and milestones and coordinate the process to close out projects after completion including tracking and reporting on project(s) success.
• Monitors scientific and financial progress of projects to ensure that all goals and milestones are completed on time and on budget.
• Works with project teams to mitigate risk, optimize scientific outcomes and increase chance of translation of project outcomes.
• Provides management consulting support to assigned projects including fostering relationships, facilitation of meetings and effective communications with project teams, lead institutions and other partners
• Works with Genome Canada staff as necessary to identify and resolve issues pertaining to funded projects. Supporting Sector or Sub-Sector Strategies (15%)
• Through Sector Innovation work and matrix reporting to VP Strategic Partnerships & Resource Development, develops relationships with assigned key sector stakeholders from private industry, government and academia, with a view to demonstrating the application of genomics-based solutions to sector specific challenges to address emerging bioeconomic opportunities and needs.
• Develops and maintains a key stakeholder list to ensure OG’s sector visibility.
• Supports the development and implementation of the strategy for genomics-based solutions in the assigned sector(s) in collaboration and consultation with internal and external stakeholders.
• In collaboration with Sector Innovation & Programs and Communications teams builds sector awareness and develops opportunities for communication and educational initiatives.

Research Project Best Practices (5%)

• Works with the OG team to develop and improve processes, develop best practices and proactively resolve project issues.
• Use available technology tools to track and monitor results and report on successes and areas for learning among the team.
• Attend internal meetings to provide status on projects and program updates, share opportunities and network leads as required.
• Other duties as assigned by the Associate VP/Leadership team.

Qualifications:

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, and/or systems/engineering biology or equivalent combination of education and work experience
• 3+ years of relevant work experience in a research environment
• Experience/sector expertise in synthetic/engineering biology is an asset
• Experience in big data analytics is an asset
• An excellent ability to translate genomics and engineering biology to applications across sectors and disciplines
• Demonstrated organizational and project management skills, preferably in a science or technology environment
• Ability to multi-task and respond to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Business experience is an asset
• Experience developing and managing relationships and collaborations is an asset
• Solid understanding of budget development and financial assessment
• Experience developing and executing agreements is an asset
• Demonstrated experience with milestone-driven projects and an ability to identify and assess objective, quantifiable measures of success
• Experience with critical evaluation of scientific proposals and reports, including experimental design, interpretation of data and statistical analysis
• High tolerance for ambiguous environments and is able to drive progress in complex environments consisting of multiple stakeholders who often have differing goals
• Creative and enjoys working in a small entrepreneurial environment that is results-driven
• Exceptional verbal and written English communication skills, including effective engagement with diverse stakeholders
• Is motivated by continuous learning and the desire to make a difference and a real contribution to the genomics research and innovation ecosystem.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Number of high-quality projects sourced and submitted to GC, OG and/or other funding organizations
• Number of relationships established and led to partnerships in sector(s)
• Stakeholder map developed and updated across sector(s)
• Positive Feedback from research teams indicating the value support received
• Demonstrated integration into project teams once funded (invited to attend meetings, field trips, etc.)
• Success stories and metrics recorded consistently

Competencies:

Purpose-driven Research Methodology Skills: In-depth knowledge of scientific research methods, approaches and techniques to produce valid, defensible and credible results and advance scientific knowledge into applications related to the subject area. Previous grant writing experience an asset.

Project Management & Accountability: Ability to scope projects, define objectives and resources required, timelines and milestones and monitor completion of activities to deliver completed projects successfully.

Initiative: Takes first steps to identify and offer possible solutions to address issues, and opportunities.

Agility: Able to adapt to change, comfortable with ambiguity, and work effectively with individuals or groups of diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Coaching: Able to coach academics and partners to achieve goals using effective questioning and discovery techniques and identifying learning and growth opportunities.

Oral and Written Communication: Exceptional verbal and written English communication skills, including effective engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Business Acumen: Able to assimilate information to identify opportunities to match stakeholder needs and genomics-based solutions available. Asks appropriate questions to identify investor opportunities.

Interpersonal Skills: Outstanding level of interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence in order to build a strong network of trusted colleagues and industry partners and associates. Facilitates innovative thinking and advocacy for research to advance society’s needs. Possesses a positive attitude, integrity, and agility, and brings a positive energy and outlook to a not-for-profit corporate culture.

Persuasion and Influence Skills: Ability to convince others to collaborate and/or agree to provide funds for specific beneficial purposes.

How to Apply:

Please submit a cover letter and resume via email to Christine Scaramuzzo CScaramuzzo@OntarioGenomics.ca

Deadline for applications is February 28, 2022

OG is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Our goal is to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives. We welcome applications from all qualified persons.

OG operates currently with a remote work model and envisions a hybrid work model post-pandemic. We expect that in-person meetings are attended as required. This is subject to change.

While Ontario Genomics (OG) thanks all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted for interviews.