Biospecimen Technician

**Biospecimen Technician**

BC Cancer

Vancouver, BC

Reporting to the Deputy Head, Centre for Lymphoid Cancer (CLC), the Biospecimen Technician carries out tasks necessary for the day-to-day operations of CLC. These include collecting and receiving tissue biospecimens, processing tissue and blood biospecimens, performing biospecimen inventory management, preparing biospecimens for shipping and related duties. The Biospecimen Technician is expected to perform complex specimen processing and testing in specialized laboratory area using standard operating procedures and proper safety procedures; responsible for specimen receipt, identification verification, processing, shipping and storage; process large volumes of specimens for multiple protocols and accurately prepares lab specimens and containers with reagents as required for a specific study; process research specimens safely and accurately, assuring positive patient identification; maintain an efficient, well-organized laboratory, manages supplies, assists in performing equipment maintenance, maintains quality control programs, and assists with development of processing instructions. The Biospecimen Technician must use good judgment and independent problem resolution to carry out all aspects of the job and must be able to prioritize the workload in response to the specific needs of numerous protocols; ensure proper paperwork and shipping for all protocols: ensure accurate storage for all specimen types; support the maintenance of all protocols and updates to protocols; and work with various computer information systems on a daily basis.

**What you’ll do**:

- Ensure all tissue and blood biospecimens are collected promptly and are processed according to existing standard operating procedures.
- Responsible for the preparation and release of biospecimen cohorts from the CLC in conjunction with members of the CLC team.
- The Biospecimen Technician is responsible for processing the biospecimens as per the researcher’s requirements, updating the CLC inventory records, and shipping the biospecimens to the researcher.
- Use a database tool to extract data to assist in the identification of cohorts for researchers, in conjunction with members of the CLC team.
- Work in an interdisciplinary setting and communicate with BC Cancer Agency and the Vancouver Island Health Authority care and research staff including physicians, nurses, clerical and support staff.
- Demonstrate lab methods or procedures to less experienced lab staff working in the CLC and affiliated projects.

**What you bring**
- A level of education, training, and experience equivalent to Bachelor of Science degree in a related discipline such as Biology, Biochemistry, or Physiology.
- Two (2) years’ recent related experience in a research laboratory, including at least one (1) year experience with histological preparations.

You have:

- Working knowledge of standard molecular biology techniques.
- Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, orally and in writing.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize work with a constantly changing schedule.
- Ability to use histological equipment.
- Awareness of and commitment to learning and understanding the Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action (2015), In Plain Sight Report (2020), BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019), and other related reports.
- Commitment to upholding the shared responsibility of creating lasting and meaningful reconciliation in Canada as per TRC (2015) and BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019).

**What we bring**

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too - offering health, wellness, development programs to support you - at work and at home.
- Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations - offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
- Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
- Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including municipal pension plan, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.
- Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.
- PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
- Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of