Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

About Queen's University

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Job Summary

Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the incumbent will perform experiments in the field of microbiology. The incumbent will isolate, purify, and maintain bacterial and fungal cultures, perform standard molecular genetic experiments including DNA and RNA isolation, maintain and dissect mealworms and superworms, and will help maintain equipment and dispose of biological/hazardous wastes as required by EH&S. The incumbent will also guide others in the safe use of lab equipment and SOPs. The incumbent will also perform some administrative duties as necessary—this will include tasks such as inventory monitoring and ordering supplies.

**Job Description**:

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES**:

- Use scientific method to conduct experiments involving isolating and characterizing bacteria, fungi, and nucleic acids, maintenance and dissection of mealworms and superworms, and observe and record results. Follow proper protocol, ensure materials are available, set up lab equipment, prepare and analyse samples and solutions. May include use of a variety of instruments such as centrifuge, plate reader, and thermos cyclers. May include use of hazardous materials.
- Maintain a lab book with complete and accurate experimental records. Present results in the form of written and/or oral reports as required by the PI.
- Assist with laboratory safety management and staff training. Responsible for safe management and disposal of hazardous substances. Assist other users of lab with respect to the safe operation of equipment and materials.
- Perform administrative procedures in support of the lab. This includes inventory/ordering of lab supplies, reconciling procurement VISA and interacting with an administrative assistant who manages lab finances.
- Perform background research including literature searches using a computer, and evaluate gathered results.
- Provide support for postdoctoral fellows and graduate and undergraduate student research projects.
- Undertake other duties as assigned in support of the lab.

**REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Three year post secondary program in the field of biotechnology, microbiology, or molecular biology.
- Job related experience in a laboratory setting.
- Knowledge of standard lab procedures and computer skills.
- Consideration may be given to an equivalent combination of education and experience.

**SPECIAL SKILLS**:

- Able to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
- Ability to prioritize time and workflow to ensure that experiments are completed in a timely manner.
- Ability to carry out experimental procedures in a careful, accurate and reproducible manner.
- Care in handling dangerous materials, operating equipment, and preparing solutions or samples. Foresight in predicting problems and preventing them from occurring where possible.
- Good oral and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with others.
- Exceptional organizational/analytical skills and ability to coordinate workflow. Judgement in choosing best protocol or adapting procedures to meet changing needs.
- Attention to detail and ability to perform careful measurements and interpret basic experimental results.
- Ability to work with computers and perform mathematical calculations.
- Possess technical/scientific communication skills (written and verbal).

**DECISION MAKING**:

- Consult with supervisor to decide which protocols to employ and tasks to complete.
- Determine priorities and schedule time in order to meet deadlines.
- Determine when it is necessary to seek advice or direction from supervisor with respect to experimental procedure, operation of equipment, etc.
- Troubleshoot, improve, and adapt experimental protocols as needed.

Employment Equity and Accessibility Statement

**Skills**
- Attention To Detail
- Research

**Reference**
- 313535