Rupinder Kaur
Brantford,ON
Summary
Agile and detail-oriented plant science researcher with over five years of hands-on experience in applied research across plant breeding, protection, and physiology. Proven ability to design and execute field and greenhouse trials, conduct disease diagnostics, and apply molecular tools for crop improvement. Holds a Master’s in Plant Science with a strong foundation in seed biology and stress physiology. Eager to contribute to CTRF’s mission of enhancing flue-cured tobacco through integrated breeding and plant health strategies.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Plant Breeding Technician – R&D
Canopy Growth Corporation
Toronto, ON
08.2023 - 10.2024
- Led hybrid line development from controlled pollination through seed harvest, supporting the release of elite cultivars with improved yield and resilience.
- Independently managed post-harvest seed processing and organized long-term vault inventory, ensuring full traceability and genetic integrity of breeding lines.
- Conducted detailed phenotypic screening and trait evaluations under greenhouse and field conditions, directly informing selection decisions.
- Performed viroid and cannabinoid screening to ensure clean, high-performing genotypes for advancement in the breeding pipeline.
- Maintained strict compliance with research, safety, and biosecurity protocols, contributing to regulatory success and R&D excellence.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with pathology, analytics, and molecular teams to integrate plant health, molecular data, and performance traits into a unified breeding strategy.
Plant Pathologist
Canopy Growth Corporation
Tiverton & Toronto, ON
11.2020 - 04.2023
- Led implementation of controlled environment trials targeting yield, plant health, and disease resistance
- Conducted phenotyping and trait selection across cultivars; supported rapid cycling breeding efforts
- Diagnosed common diseases and pests (powdery mildew, aphids, gnats) using IPM techniques
- Coordinated plant propagation, transplanting, fertigation, pruning, and harvest operations
- Maintained clean seed handling practices and ensured traceability through detailed documentation
- Contributed to internal reports supporting cultivar selection and R&D decisions
Graduate Research Assistant – Plant Physiology
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB
01.2017 - 10.2019
- Designed and executed molecular studies on wheat germination under stress conditions
- Performed RT-PCR, cDNA synthesis, and statistical analysis on hormone-mediated processes
- Maintained greenhouse and growth chamber populations; co-authored academic publications
Research Intern – Horticulture & Genetics
Punjab Agricultural University
Ludhiana, India
06.2015 - 05.2016
- Conducted SSR marker analysis and phenotypic selection in tomato and wheat populations
- Gained hands-on experience in propagation, nursery management, and disease inoculation
Education
Master of Science - Plant Science
University of Manitoba
01.2020
Bachelor of Science - Agricultural Biotechnology
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2016
Skills
- Plant Breeding: Crossing, hybrid evaluation, trait selection, seed harvesting
- Plant Protection: IPM, pest/disease monitoring, biocontrol, sanitation protocols
- Molecular Biology: DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, marker analysis
- Field & Greenhouse Trials: Trial design, implementation, phenotyping, data collection
- Compliance & Data Management: SOPs, MS Excel, seed vaults, documentation
- Teamwork & Independence: Cross-functional collaboration, self-directed project work
- Adaptability: Field-ready, long-hour capable, dynamic research environments
Awards
Manitoba Graduate Scholarship – 2018, UMGF Fellowship – 2017, International Graduate Scholarships – 2016 & 2017
Publications
- Regulation of Wheat Seed Germination by Brassinosteroid
- Genetic Diversity in Wheat and Oats Using SSR Markers
- Is Diminishing Solar Activity Detrimental to Canadian Prairie Agriculture?
Technical & Operational Readiness
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, RT-PCR, basic R
- Valid Ontario G Driver’s License
- Capable of fieldwork involving lifting up to 50 lbs and extended hours in diverse conditions
Timeline
Plant Breeding Technician – R&D
Canopy Growth Corporation
08.2023 - 10.2024
Plant Pathologist
Canopy Growth Corporation
11.2020 - 04.2023
Graduate Research Assistant – Plant Physiology
University of Manitoba
01.2017 - 10.2019
Research Intern – Horticulture & Genetics
Punjab Agricultural University
06.2015 - 05.2016
Master of Science - Plant Science
University of Manitoba
Bachelor of Science - Agricultural Biotechnology
Punjab Agricultural University