Research Assistant - Huntsman Lab

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career. 

Job Summary
This position involves providing technical support in the areas of cell biology, molecular biology and histology for various projects within the Huntsman laboratory’s ovarian and rare cancer research programs. Individual should possess a strong cell biology and molecular biology background, with experience in cell culture and molecular biology work. Hands-on experience with primary tissue culture and viral work required.

The successful applicant will work full-time under the direction, guidance and supervision of Dr. David Huntsman and senior scientists within the lab. The position will provide the candidate with exposure to gynecological and rare cancers, and translational research, advanced molecular and pathology technology and techniques, as well as, providing opportunities to work collaboratively with a team of multidisciplinary researchers within the OVCARE program.
Organizational Status
The Huntsman lab is located at BC Cancer Research Institute and Jack Bell Research Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The candidate will report directly to Dr. David Huntsman, or senior scientists in the lab. In addition, the applicant may assist in overseeing technical work of students and trainees.
Work Performed
- Maintains cell cultures and generation of new cell lines using lentiviral transduction

- Performs immunohistochemistry and western blotting techniques

- Performs viral-related work including production, isolation and infection 

- Provide technical expertise and support in cell biology, histology and molecular biology; including but not limited to techniques such as qPCR, western blotting, DNA extractions, library preparation, cloning and immunofluorescence

- Maintains and operates of shared infrastructure equipment

- Assists in developing and implementing standard operating protocols (SOPs)

- Maintains laboratory records and experimental data; when required summarize results in research reports and lab presentations

- Assists in general maintenance, reagent preparation, receiving and inventory of lab supplies

- Carries out any other related duties as assigned or required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of this level of technician
Consequence of Error/Judgement
The work is of a complex nature and required high level of training, tasks are assigned and the incumbent exercises a considerable amount of responsibility, initiative and judgment in determining own work schedule to achieve those tasks. Errors may result in the permanent loss of irreplaceable tissue samples, loss of thousands of dollars of material and/or damage to equipment.  Incorrect decisions or actions may damage the reputation of the laboratory, lead to loss of credibility in this field, and be financially costly. Noncompliance with biosafety and chemical safety regulations may also result in closure of facility or loss of grant funding.
Supervision Received
The successful applicant will be supervised directly by senior staff working on the project. The principal Investigator(s), direct supervisor(s) or senior scientist(s) will provide specific instructions on any problems or new project outlines. This position will report to the Principal Investigator(s) or senior scientist(s) or designate.   
Supervision Given
Depending on experience and expertise, the successful applicant maybe be required to assist in training and supervision of graduate students/trainees, including providing instruction on use of lab equipment and procedures, and will help troubleshoot experiments in their area of expertise.
Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

·       A MSc in Biological Sciences (Cell Biology or other relevant field), preferred or BSc with experience in academic research or biotech industry settings. Preference will be given to applicants with work experience in cell culture and viral transduction.

·       A working knowledge and understanding of cell culture and cell biology

·       Hands-on working experience with viral work

·       Ability to perform and troubleshoot a wide variety of molecular and cell biology techniques

·       Strong interpersonal skills, communication skills (orally and written) and the ability to interact positively and productively with other team members are essential

·       Excellent documentation and organization skills

·       The successful candidate must be well-organized, conscientious, understand the importance of detail, and be able to multi-task and prioritize duties effectively