Laboratory Technician

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Job Summary The Manges Lab (http://mangeslab.med.ubc.ca/) is seeking an enthusiastic and hard‑working Research Technician 4 to assist with research relating to respiratory viral diagnostics and other projects using next‑generation sequencing technologies. The respiratory virus project focuses on optimizing and performance testing a next‑generation sequencing based diagnostic assay for the detection and characterization of respiratory viruses in clinical samples. The goal of this project is to optimize the assay to achieve comparable test performance to current diagnostic standards. These results will be used to submit an application for regulatory approval of the assay. The position will predominantly involve laboratory and administrative work relating to this study in addition to essential administrative and lab management tasks. Division of Tasks 70% laboratory work 20% administrative support 10% other Work Performed Laboratory Tasks Design, modify, optimize, troubleshoot, and perform laboratory assays that include DNA extraction, library preparation of RNA or DNA for next‑generation sequencing, PCR and qPCR, use of liquid handling robots, handling and processing of biohazardous substances, including infectious respiratory and other specimens, performing next‑generation sequencing using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platform and other sequencing platforms. Perform timely and accurate recording of data and data analysis for projects to generate laboratory results; maintain detailed records of all laboratory work. Operate, monitor and maintain specialized equipment requiring training (e.g., freezers, PCR machines, liquid handling robot, etc.). Source, order, prepare and safely manage laboratory reagents, equipment and other materials. Develop, write and maintain laboratory protocols and safety records and procedures; make recommendations for workflow improvements. Maintain a clean and safe working environment, manage laboratory waste, and carefully follow Biosafety/Chemical and other safety requirements. Supervise, schedule and train graduate students and staff. Provide recommendations with respect to hiring and input into student or staff performance. Carry out any other related duties as required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of positions in this classification. Administrative Tasks Help to manage and oversee the daily operations of the laboratory, including fiscally responsible recommendations for the purchase of reagents and equipment, inventory management, expense forecasting and maintenance of financial reports, including payment and accurate recording of invoices, payments and orders. Assist with completion of administrative tasks relating to accounting, human resources, research ethics, regulatory approval applications and other duties. Assist with development, revisions and renewals of study protocols that adhere to Research Ethics Board regulations for studies of human subjects, and revise and update Biosafety protocols. Assist with the administration and training of new students and group members; and ensure lab members have necessary lab safety training. Maintain prompt, regular and open communication with the PI, other group members and with collaborators; and provide project progress reports weekly to both laboratory members and collaborators. Assist with the development of project budgets for grant proposals and collaborative work by obtaining quotes and providing cost estimates. Coordinate meetings, visitors to the laboratory, safety and lab training sessions. Develop, update and maintain laboratory and study websites. Other administrative tasks as required. Other Tasks Contribute to publications resulting from the work. Assist in data analysis and regulatory approval applications. Attend workshops and seek learning opportunities to acquire new laboratory and administrative skills as required. Provide laboratory and administrative support to other lab members as required. Work toward creating a positive work environment in a research group with a number of Masters students, and PhD students. Seek guidance when confronted with challenges or questions. Take initiative whenever possible. Other tasks as required. Minimum Qualifications Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree. 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 B.Sc in relevant field (e.g., microbiology, immunology, molecular biology) - preferred. M.Sc in relevant field - preferred but not required. Laboratory experience. Minimum four years ‘wet lab’ experience in relevant research field required. Excellent knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology techniques. Experience performing DNA extractions, PCR, qPCR and other techniques. Experience inputting, storing and managing data using Microsoft Excel or similar. Basic bioinformatic and UNIX command line knowledge preferred. Excellent attention to detail. Excellent organisational and time‑management skills. Basic statistical analysis skills. Keen interest in microbiology and infectious disease diagnostics. Ability to strictly and consistently follow a SOP. Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to deal with a diversity of people in a calm, courteous, and effective manner. Enthusiastic and hard‑working. Ability to communicate effectively; verbally and in writing. Seniority level Entry level Employment type Full‑time Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology Industries Higher Education #J-18808-Ljbffr