Research Assistant Tech 1

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

Job End Date

This position is expected to be filled by promotion/reassignment and is included here to inform you of its vacancy at the University.

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
Candidate will assist with genetic experiments relating to membrane contact site biology; organization and handling of DNA and yeast and bacterial strains related to experimental protocols; coordinating workflow with other lab members for efficient conduct of experiments; troubleshooting and development of experimental protocols under supervision of senior research staff; assisting in the analysis of experimental results; receiving shipments of supplies and other reagents; equipment maintenance and organization of supplies as required; and performing other related tasks.
Organizational Status
All work is performed in a laboratory facility; approximately 90% of work is wet bench work and approximately 10% is computer-based. Incumbent will be expected to conduct workflows with minimal direct supervision following a monitored training period.
Work Performed
Assists with organization and handling of plasmids, yeast and E. coli strains

• Assists with plasmid assembly, and PCR for the amplification and analysis of DNA samples.
• Preparation of agarose gels and running of gel electrophoresis assays
• Assists with genetic, cell-based, or molecular biological assays as required, including western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and fluorescence microscopy.
• Processing and analysis of experimental results and data as directed
• Provides general assistance with receiving and preparation of laboratory supplies
• Performs basic maintenance tasks on equipment as required
• Other related duties as required

Consequence of Error/Judgement
The incumbent will make important decisions affecting the functioning of the lab and the generation of experimental data. Incompetence or incorrect decisions could jeopardize research progress, collaborations, finances and employee safety, and adversely impact future project objectives, funding, and personnel.
Supervision Received
Direct supervision provided by the Principal Investigator, Dr. Elizabeth Conibear, with daily oversight provided by a senior Research Technician who reports to Dr. Conibear.
Supervision Given
None but may explain workflow and experimental protocol to others.
Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation and a minimum one year 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

• BSc in Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related biological discipline.
• Ability to coordinate duties independently and communicate with others to ensure the efficient and smooth functioning of laboratory workflows.
• Effective oral and written communication, good organizational skills and the demonstrated ability to follow established guidelines and protocols.
• Sterile and reproducible laboratory technique.
• Ability to work independently or within a team environment and to complete work assignments in a timely fashion.
• Prior experience and demonstrated troubleshooting in a molecular biology laboratory setting is strongly preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite software is preferred.