Strengthening genomics program delivery and stakeholder engagement - MB-007

Project type: Innovation
Desired discipline(s): Biology, Life Sciences, Agriculture, Natural Sciences
Company: Genome Prairie
Project Length: 4 to 6 months
Preferred start date: 03/16/2026
Language requirement: English
Location(s): Winnipeg, MB, Canada
No. of positions: 1
Desired education level: Undergraduate/BachelorMaster'sPhDPostdoctoral fellowRecent graduate
Open to applicants registered at an institution outside of Canada: No

About the company: 

Genome Prairie is the leading not-for-profit organization for support and management of large-scale genomics and related bioscience research projects in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Industry sectors such as agriculture, health, mining and energy are benefitting from the organization’s outreach and commercialization initiatives. With its partners, Genome Prairie has invested approximately $362 million in research activity in plant, animal and human genomics, bioinformatics, instrumentation development and bioethics since its establishment in 2000.

Describe the project.: 

Genome Prairie is at the forefront of advancing genomics across the Prairies, but as its programs expand, there is a critical need to strengthen operational processes, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge mobilization to ensure measurable impact. This Business Strategy project focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of Genome Prairie’s programs portfolio, directly supporting applied decision-making and strategic growth.
The Mitacs intern will work closely with the Programs Team to optimize program development and delivery. Key activities include identifying and tracking potential applicants, companies, researchers, and organizations for upcoming funding opportunities, and managing logistics for online and in-person meetings, proposals, and follow-ups. The intern will also support the implementation of knowledge mobilization plans, ensuring funded projects reach the right audiences and deliver tangible benefits to stakeholders.
A central component of this project is contributing to Genome Prairie’s first Annual Genomics Symposium, an initiative designed to strengthen cross-sector partnerships, increase visibility for genomics programs, and accelerate collaboration between research, industry, and government. The intern will also enhance historical project data, stakeholder contact management, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), delivering improved program tracking, reporting efficiency, and scalable processes for the organization.
The expected outcome of this project is measurable improvement in program coordination, stakeholder engagement, and operational efficiency. By streamlining processes and supporting strategic initiatives, the intern will directly contribute to a stronger funding pipeline, higher program impact, and improved organizational capacity - making Genome Prairie’s genomics programs more sustainable, scalable, and attractive to future partners and funders.

Required expertise/skills: 

The ideal candidate will be currently enrolled in a Canadian post-secondary institution in biology, agriculture, health sciences, business, or a related field, with an interest in applied research, innovation programs, or science-based funding initiatives. Required skills include strong written and verbal communication and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including researchers, industry partners, and government representatives.
The candidate must demonstrate excellent organizational and time management skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office tools such as Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel, as well as structured file and data management. The ability to process complex and confidential information with discretion is essential.
A foundational understanding of biology, agriculture, or health sciences, and/or knowledge of business, project design, or the life sciences innovation ecosystem, is considered an asset. The candidate should be able to work independently while contributing collaboratively within a cross-functional team environment.