As a Director of Biology, you will lead scientific teams and research initiatives that advance Canada's defence and security objectives. You will oversee the strategic direction of biological science programs, manage complex research projects, and ensure the highest standards of scientific excellence. This role combines scientific expertise with management responsibility, requiring you to mentor researchers, allocate resources effectively, and communicate findings to senior government officials and stakeholders.
Your day-to-day work involves reviewing research proposals, directing experimental design and validation, managing budgets and timelines, and collaborating with other government departments, academic institutions, and international partners. You may work on projects related to disease surveillance, biotechnology applications, environmental monitoring, or other areas critical to Canada's defence capabilities. The work environment is typically office-based with access to laboratory facilities, and may occasionally require travel to field sites or conferences.
You will be expected to maintain current knowledge of biological sciences, demonstrate leadership in a competitive research environment, and represent the Department at scientific forums. Your decisions will directly impact the quality and relevance of biological research supporting Canadian Defence and Security operations.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of biology services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the biology team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, Team leadership, Operational planning, Stakeholder engagement, Results management
Typical Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
Education: A Master's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related biological science discipline is typically required. A PhD in a biological science or closely related field is highly valued for Director-level positions.
Professional Development: You are expected to maintain professional certifications and memberships in relevant scientific associations (such as Professional Engineers Ontario, Colleges and Institutes Canada, or discipline-specific societies). The Department supports continued professional development through conference attendance, specialized training in research management, and leadership development programs.
Certifications and Skills: Experience with research ethics approval processes (AECB, REB), scientific writing, peer review, and familiarity with government research frameworks are valuable. Strong project management skills and experience with budgeting and personnel management are essential for the Director level.
Entry Plans
You can enter the DND Civilian Workforce as a Director of Biology through several pathways:
Public Service Jobs competitions: The Public Service Commission posts competitions for Director-level science positions. These are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents with appropriate qualifications.
Internal Lateral Moves: If you are already working in the federal Public Service in a lower-level science or management position, you may apply for advertised Director competitions or be considered through internal staffing processes.
Research Officer Pool: Scientists with a Master's degree or PhD can enter through Science and Math job family competitions at lower classification levels (Research Officer, Senior Research Officer) and advance to Director through promotion competitions.
Specialized Recruitment: DND may conduct targeted recruitment for specialized research areas, particularly those requiring specific expertise in emerging biological sciences.
All positions require a security clearance. Most Director roles require a Top Secret clearance, which involves a comprehensive background investigation.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work at the Director level is uncommon and typically available only in exceptional circumstances. The strategic and leadership responsibilities of a Director role generally require full-time commitment.
Flexible Work Arrangements: Many DND Civilian locations offer flexible work schedules and hybrid arrangements (combining office and remote work). Specific options depend on operational requirements and your manager's approval. Research-focused Directors may have greater flexibility than those with extensive management or stakeholder engagement duties.
Remote Work: Remote work options are available for certain tasks such as literature review, report writing, and virtual meetings. However, on-site presence is typically required for laboratory oversight, team management, and sensitive research activities. The extent of remote work eligibility will be discussed during the recruitment and onboarding process based on your specific role and department needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
