Research Assistant/Technician 3

Job Summary
A Research Assistant/Technician position for developing molecular tools and techniques in gene regulation is available in the de Boer lab (https://deboer.bme.ubc.ca/ ) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Our lab’s goal is to build our understanding of genome regulation to the point where we can predict gene regulation from DNA sequence alone, enabling us to predict how mutations in the genome alter gene regulation and result in disease. Much of our experimental work aims to create ideal datasets for learning how to go from DNA sequence to gene regulation.  The primary goals of this position are to develop new experimental techniques through proof-of-concept experiments and technology development, and to assist lab members with their experiments when needed. An ideal candidate would be excited to try things that no one has ever done before, enjoy learning new skills, work well both independently and as part of a team, be well-organized, have good attention to detail, be happy to contribute to multiple projects, and know when to ask for help/input. Familiarity with genome editing, functional genomics, cell culture, molecular techniques, engineering principles, CAD, rapid prototyping, click chemistry, reporter assays, high-throughput DNA sequencing, and genetic circuit design are strong assets.

The start date is immediate, but flexible. One-year term with possibility of extension. Continued extension is dependent on securing additional research funds.

Candidates should provide a CV, contact information of 3 references, and a cover letter describing past achievements and future research interests, and should apply through the UBC portal.

Organizational Status
Reports to Dr. Carl de Boer. Will also support aspects of lab operations receiving direction from and working alongside other lab members.

Work Performed

• Plans and performs experiments, utilizing complex procedures or techniques; troubleshoots problems; collects, records, analyses and interprets experiment results.
• Assists senior level staff with the design of experiments and/or development of new techniques for laboratories or facilities. Assists with experiments, including tissue culture (e.g. cancer cell lines, pluripotent stem cells), cell manipulation, library preparation.
• Writes reports, presents research results at laboratory meetings and assists with the writing of grant applications.
• Provides training to undergraduate students, new and lower level technicians in the use of equipment, techniques and procedures.
• Coordinates, monitors and ensures the implementation and enforcement of laboratory safety rules and procedures.
• Organizes laboratory and stock, maintains inventory and distributes supplies.
• Prepares and/or maintains media, buffer, reagents, solutions, cultures and related material for routine laboratory use.
• May assist in running a laboratory, performing tasks, such as, purchasing supplies and minor equipment and maintaining parts of accounts.
• May oversee and direct the work of one or two incumbents in lower level classifications.
• Carries out any other related duties as required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of positions in this classification.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Makes professional decisions and recommendations on all aspects of research work. Errors in performance of the above-related duties could have a significant impact on the effectiveness, reputation, collaboration, and financial status of the research project. Inappropriate judgment could result in fundamental flaws in the research results, in funding shortfalls for research grants or contracts, and loss of future research partnerships.

Supervision Received
Works under general supervision; receives detailed instructions on the assignment of new duties and thereafter only on new or unusual problems.

Supervision Given
May oversee and direct the work of one or two employees at lower classifications in which case they are responsible for the accuracy, production, and control of the work unit.

Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, or related field, and two years of experimental experience in molecular biology or similar environment (could include undergraduate lab work).

This posting is for the UBC Vancouver campus in British Columbia, Canada.

Please refer to reference number NC-56989 during correspondence about this position.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

About UBC
The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world. Since 1915, UBC’s entrepreneurial spirit has embraced innovation and challenged the status quo. UBC encourages its students, staff and faculty to challenge convention, lead discovery and explore new ways of learning. At UBC, bold thinking is given a place to develop into ideas that can change the world.

About UBC’s Faculty of Medicine
Our Vision: To Transform Health for Everyone.

Ranked among the world’s top medical schools with the fifth-largest MD enrollment in North America, the UBC Faculty of Medicine is a leader in both the science and the practice of medicine. Across British Columbia, more than 11,000 faculty and staff are training the next generation of doctors, health care professionals and scientists, making remarkable discoveries, and helping to create the pathways to better health for our communities at home and around the world.

The Faculty of Medicine – comprised of approximately 2,200 administrative support, technical/research and management and professional staff, as well approximately 650 full-time academic and more than 9,000 clinical faculty members – is composed of 19 academic basic science and/or clinical departments, three schools, and 24 research centres and institutes. Together with its University and Health Authority partners, the Faculty delivers innovative programs and conducts research in the areas of health and life sciences. Faculty, staff and trainees are located at university campuses, clinical academic campuses in hospital settings and other regionally based centres across the province.

About Vancouver
Vancouver is a dynamic, cosmopolitan and progressive city, consistently ranked as one of the top cities to live in the world. Canada’s third largest city has it all: sea, parks, mountains, beaches, and four seasons per year, including beautiful summers and mild, wet winters with snow in the mountains. It’s the perfect backdrop to your academic research.